BACKGROUND
BVDV is the most costly disease in the cattle industry, estimated at around 2 billion per year. Often without visible symptoms, this disease inhibits conception, causes spontaneous abortion and birth defects, and hinders the immune system. BVDVb1 is the predominant source of persistently infected (PI) cattle, and there is a growing prevalence of BVD2b. Unfortunately, few vaccines exists that adequately protect against BVDV1b, and current practice does not vaccinate for type 2b.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
Dr. Robert Fulton at Oklahoma State University has isolated cytopathic BVDV subtype 1b and 2b strains that can be used as vaccines. The advantages of cytopathic strains include the inability to result in PI cattle, which is the main mechanism for the spread of BVDV. These particular strains also promote a strong antibody response using modified live viruses. Both OSU strains performed better than BoviShield Gold FP S in vivo, and provided superior overall cross protection. In addition, OSU has many non-cytopathic novel strains of BVD that can be used for the development of new diagnostics and therapeutics.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Therapeutic for BVD
- Diagnostic or BVD
MAIN ADVANTAGES
- Cannot lead to PI cattle
- Produces strong antibody response
- Cross-protects against other subtypes
- Cytopathic strains are easily monitored
- Insertion mutations in strains allow for easy identification through PCR, hybridization probes and/or genetic sequencing
- Outperformed BoviShield vaccine, which contains 1a,2a, in vivo
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT Strains are isolated and POC as a vaccine has been established
LICENSING CONTACT: Please contact otc@okstate.edu for more information.