W13-019 : Host immune response of feline kidney cells to pathogenic and non-pathogenic feline coronavirus strains: Developing biomarkers for FIP; $25,000 (Winn-funded study)
Yvonne Dreschler, PhD, Pedro Diniz, DVM, PhD; Western University of Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Pomona, CA
The goal of this study is to investigate the immune response of various feline cells infected by FIPV and FECV to identify markers that can be used to distinguish between the two virus forms in order to better understand the immunity of infected cats. These results will enable us to develop better diagnostics and improved treatment for FIP.
Investigators have analyzed RNA at additional timepoints to the ones proposed in order to insure biomarkers of FIPV infection will not be missed. They also increased the number of samples analysed from 15 to 30 based on their initial results. RNA analysis will hopefully allow identification of genes that are important in FIPV infection and indicate infection with FIPV. Identification of specific genes expressed during infection with FIPV may help to improve diagnostics as well as guide developments of therapeutics. Analysis is ongoing to validate the sequencing data. Publications are planned. (MK)