MYCOBACTERIUM PARATUBERCULOSIS IMMUNODIAGNOSTIC ANTIGEN DISCOVERY WITH PROTEIN MICROARRAYS

Mycobacterium aviumsubspeciesparatuberculosis(MAP) causes Johne's disease (JD) in cattle, sheep, and goat, and results in considerable production and economic losses to US animal agriculture. Progress in controlling the spread of infection has been impeded by the lack of reliable diagnostic tests that can identify animals early during the infection process. Our preliminary studies support the hypothesis that some MAP proteins may serve as early markers of infection. To test this hypothesis, we will apply powerful state-of-the-art molecular approaches to screen well-characterized sets of serum samples from cattle and goats at different stages of JD for potential early markers of infection. These markers will then be evaluated for the ability to sensitively and specifically identify MAP infected animals early during the infection process. Together, the knowledge and resources gained from our investigations will enable the construction of a rational framework for the development and validation of future generations of diagnostic assays to enhance US animal health and productivity through better control of JD.