Although the swine is fortunate to have a number of effective vaccines to address the issue of Porcine Circovirus Associated Disease (PCVAD), further research is needed to better understand the intricacies of this syndrome. In order to prioritize the research needed, a group of scientific researchers, veterinarians, allied industry representatives and producers met to discuss and vote on PCVAD research priorities for the Pork Checkoff. A summary of the meeting and ranked research priorities were published in the Journal of Swine Health and Production (JSHAP, 15.1, 47-51). The information gathered during this meeting was used to develop the 2008 PCVAD call for proposals.
The National Pork Board is calling for research proposals addressing five priority areas including immunology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostics and prevention and treatment. Specific research priorities in each category are provided on the Pork Board website. To encourage creativity and collaboration, no funding limit is being set. Proposals are due May 6. Contracts are expected to commence in September. Instructions, priority areas and research priorities are included in the call for proposals.
The website also provides updates on previous research projects addressing immunity, transmission, pathogenesis and diagnostics.