Severe acute respiratory syndrome is a life-threatening human illness characterized by mortality rates exceeding 50% in the elderly. The SARS coronavirus contains a approximately 30Kb single-stranded, positive polarity RNA genome. The availability of a full-length infectious cDNA of the SARS genome would not only provide complete genetic control over the virus, but allow for rational design of live viruses as candidate vaccines. Consequently, we believe that a SARS reverse genetic system must rank near the top of the priorities for controlling this important human pathogen. We are the only group in the US to have successfully assembled full-length infectious cDNAs of the coronaviruses, mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) and have demonstrated that these full length constructs provide novel opportunities for studying the genetics of coronavirus replication and pathogenesis.
In aim 1, we will develop a full length SARS cDNA clone and compare the phenotype of rescued molecular cloned viruses with wildtype using biochemical assays and macaque challenge experiments.
In Aim 2, we will develop high titer SARS single hit replicons for use as expression vectors and vaccines.
In aim 3, we will select for SARS host range mutants that replicate in murine cells, identify the mechanism of SARS cross species transmission using reverse genetic approaches and evaluate the pathogenicity of these viruses in rodents and non human primates. The goal of this application is to establish genetic control over the SARS genome and provide uniform reagents that will be used by other groups throughout the country.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
1R01AI059136-01
Application #
6759122
Study Section
Virology Study Section (VR)
Program Officer
Cassels, Frederick J
Project Start
2004-02-15
Project End
2009-01-31
Budget Start
2004-02-15
Budget End
2005-01-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2004
Total Cost
$278,647
Indirect Cost
Name
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Department
Public Health & Prev Medicine
Type
Schools of Public Health
DUNS #
608195277
City
Chapel Hill
State
NC
Country
United States
Zip Code
27599
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