Genome-wide investigation of bovine respiratory virus infection and host defence

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) - commonly known as "shipping fever" - affects millions of feedlot calves every year and, in addition to causing significant animal welfare issues, is a major cause of economic loss throughout the world. BRD is caused by a complex of pathogens including infection with respiratory viruses such as bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), bovine parainfluenza virus 3 (BPIV3), bovine herpes virus 1 (BoHV1). These pathogens cause damage to cells of the respiratory tract that hinders pulmonary clearance leaving calves susceptible to secondary bacterial infections. Therefore, a better understanding of virus biology, particularly what host factors are key to successful infection is needed. Likewise, knowledge of how the host defence system attempts to limit their replication is required to better inform the development of new therapeutic approaches or how to develop more sustainable and resilient animals.