Bob Rowland

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV): Pathogenesis and Interaction with the Immune System

This review addresses important issues of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection, immunity, pathogenesis, and control. Worldwide, PRRS is the most economically important infectious disease of pigs. We highlight the latest information on viral genome structure, pathogenic mechanisms, and host immunity, with a special focus on immune factors that modulate PRRSV infections during the acute and chronic/persistent disease phases. We address genetic control of host resistance and probe effects of PRRSV infection on reproductive traits. A major goal is to identify cellular/viral targets and pathways for designing more effective vaccines and therapeutics. Based on progress in viral reverse genetics, host transcriptomics and genomics, and vaccinology and adjuvant technologies, we have identified new areas for PRRS control and prevention. Finally, we highlight the gaps in our knowledge base and the need for advanced molecular and immune tools to stimulate PRRS research and field applications.

Genetic Parameters and Chromosomal Regions Associated with Viral Load and Growth in Pigs Infected with Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus

Nick Boddicker, research assistant; Dorian J. Garrick, professor of animal science; James Reecy, professor of animal science; Bob Rowland, professor of diagnostic medicine pathobiology, Kansas State University; Max F. Rothschild, distinguished professor of animal science; Juan Pedro Steibel, assistant professor of animal science and of fisheries and wildlife, Michigan State University; Joan K. Lunney, research scientist, Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory USDA-ARS Beltsville, MD; Jack C. M. Dekkers, professor of animal science