The PRRS Host Genetics Consortium (PHGC) represents the first-of-its-kind approach to food animal infectious disease research. The NPB, PRRS CAP, USDA ARS, NIFA, Genome Canada, private companies, and universities have come together to conduct a multi-year project to understand how host genetics influences the outcome of PRRSV infection. The thorough characterization of PRRS-associated genomic markers will be used in breeding programs to identify pigs that are more resistant/tolerant to infection, produce a desired antibody or cytokine response, and/or respond well following vaccination (vaccine-ready pigs). Spinoffs from the project include new information and research to improve the control of PRRS in the field, such as oral fluid surveillance for PRRS and other infectious diseases and the characterization of biomarkers linked to specific infection and growth outcomes. Another spinoff is the identification of a pig with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), a new model for understanding mechanisms associated with PRRS pathogenesis and immunity.
The principal activities conducted during the latest funding period include the experimental infection of an additional 400 pigs: PHGC7, 8. To date, funding from NPB, USDA, Genome Canada and private companies has supported 14 trials or approximately 2800 pigs. Genomic DNA was prepared from PHGC6, 7, and 8 pigs and their available parents for single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. Samples (serum, blood RNA Tempus tubes, oral fluids, skin tissue, and tonsils) collected from these trials are stored at K- State and BARC and represent a rich resource available to all PRRS researchers. For every dollar provided by the NPB, the PHGC has contributed more than $10 in matching funds The secure PHGC relational database http://www.animalgenome.org/lunney/index.php continues to be developed for sharing phenotypic and genotypic data, gene and protein expression results, and statistical analyses. Year 3 NPB funding is being used to complete infection of pigs, complete the PRRSV RT-PCR on sera from PHGC 6, 7, and 8 (Rowland), continue building the relational database (Reecy), and support the preparation of genomic DNA and blood cell RNA, and measurement of circulating cytokines (Lunney).
Raymond R. R. Rowland, [email protected], 785-532-4631""
Joan K. Lunney, [email protected], 301-504-9368""