Friday, February 21, 2020

African swine fever genome unveiled



Scientists from The Pirbright Institute have worked with University College London to map the expression of genes across the entire African swine fever virus (ASF) genome.
They have learned that different genes are working when infection begins than when it’s well established and the virus is preparing to invade new animals.
The research could provide vital information for those developing vaccines and antiviral drugs to prevent the deadly pig disease caused by this virus.
In their study, published in the Journal of Virology, the researchers used next generation sequencing to create the first complete genetic road map.
ASFV has a very large DNA genome - between 150 and 190 compared with eight for influenza.
“Our study helps to untangle which genes are important during different stages of infection to better understand their functions”, said Dr. Linda Dixon, head of the African Swine Fever Virus group at Pirbright.