Protecting Pigs from African Swine Fever with a New Vaccine Strategy
Author Information
Author(s): King Katherine, Chapman Dave, Argilaguet Jordi M., Fishbourne Emma, Hutet Evelyne, Cariolet Roland, Hutchings Geoff, Oura Christopher A.L., Netherton Christopher L., Moffat Katy, Taylor Geraldine, Le Potier Marie-Frederique, Dixon Linda K.
Primary Institution: Institute for Animal Health Pirbright Laboratory
Hypothesis
Can immunization with a non-virulent strain of African swine fever virus protect pigs from virulent strains?
Conclusion
The study found that immunizing pigs with a non-virulent strain followed by a virulent strain can effectively protect them from severe disease caused by African swine fever virus.
Supporting Evidence
- Immunization with the non-virulent OURT88/3 strain followed by the virulent OURT88/1 strain protected most pigs from disease.
- 85.7% of pigs were protected from Benin 97/1 challenge, and 100% from Uganda 1965 challenge.
- Cross-protection was correlated with immune responses measured by IFN-γ production.
Takeaway
Researchers found a way to help pigs fight a dangerous virus by giving them a safe version of the virus first, then a stronger one to boost their defenses.
Methodology
Pigs were immunized with a non-virulent strain followed by a virulent strain and then challenged with virulent isolates to assess protection.
Limitations
Some pigs did not achieve complete protection, and the study did not explore all potential genetic factors affecting immunity.
Participant Demographics
Cross-bred pigs, including Large White and Landrace breeds, with varying weights at immunization.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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