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 Peter
J. Timoney, MVB, PhD, FRCVS
Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center
Department of Veterinary Science
University of Kentucky Lexington, Kentucky 40546-0099
Equine arteritis virus and the disease, equine viral arteritis,
continue to be the subjects of major research interest. Studies
are continuing into defining the mechanisms both viral and
host-related, that enable establishment and persistence of
equine arteritis virus in the reproductive tract of the stallion.
The role of androgens and local and systemic immunity on maintenance
of the carrier state are of especial interest. An in vitro
model of viral persistence is being investigated for evaluation
of specific chemical compounds as potential therapeutic agents
for elimination of the carrier state.
Work is continuing into defining the genomic markers of pathogenicity
among strains of equine arteritis virus with particular reference
to the virus' potential to cause abortion/illness and death
in young foals and establishment of the carrier state in the
stallion.
Enhancement of existing laboratory test procedures for the
diagnosis of equine arteritis virus infection remains a significant
area of investigation. Additionally, efforts are in progress
to develop a safer, modified live virus marker vaccine and
a comparison diagnostic test against equine viral arteritis.
Another area of current interest is contagious equine metritis
and the possible clinical significance and role of Taylorella
asinigenitalis in causing the disease. The distribution and
frequency of infection with this bacterium in the non-horse
equid population is currently under study as well as persistence
of T. asinigenitalis on the external genitalia of the castrated
donkey jack.
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