The research in this laboratory is directed towards a variety of animal species including cattle, swine, goats, sheep, bison, elk, moose, pronghorn antelope, reindeer, and coyotes. A mouse model for bovine and human brucellosis is also used as a primary screen to evaluate the host response. The Elzer laboratory defined the caprine model for colonization, pathogenesis and vaccine efficacy. New technologies for identification of virulence factors and diagnostics are currently being investigated using Brucella abortus, B. melitensis and B. suis. Dr. Elzer is also involved in mycobacterium projects to develop potential vaccines for Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis in cattle and wild ungulates. A feral swine vaccine against brucellosis and pseudorabies is presently being evaluated. The use of multivalent vaccines to protect against brucellosis, tuberculosis, Johne's Disease or pseudorabies would provide benefits to agriculture and both animal and human health issues.
|
