HETEROLOGOUS FLAVIVIRUS INFECTIONS OF SWINE AND CATTLE

This research is particularly relevant to the research programs of the ARS and specifically relevant to predictive biology investigations directed towards questions of emergence and re-emergence of viral diseases, trans-species transmission of viruses and creation of ecological reservoirs of infection. These questions are important for all the Flaviviridae that infect swine (such as Classic Swine Fever Virus and Japanese Encephalitis Virus) with transmission potential to other mammalian and arthropod species. Thus, these studies establish a framework of research to investigate these questions in multiple mammalian species across multiple zoonotic viruses. Specific Objectives: A. Continue relevant training through graduate courses and clinical case work that will allow Scientist to complete the requirements for board-certification by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and the Auburn University Graduate School for a doctoral degree in Biomedical Sciences. B. Investigate the implications of heterologous BVDV infection on the viral genome following congenital infections in pigs, infectivity of BVDV for cattle, and antigenic changes for immune recognition in vaccinated cattle. 1. Investigate whether viral genetic change allows clearance of BVDV in some congenitally infected piglets. 2. Determine whether persistently or chronically infected (PI or CI) heterologous hosts can cause spill-back infections to cattle. 3. Evaluate antigenic changes of BVDV propagated in heterologous hosts during immune recognition in vaccinated cattle. 4. Determine the prevalence of BVDV and BVDV antibody in white-tailed deer and feral swine in Alabama.