Advancements in the Understanding, Diagnosis, and Control of Viral Diseases of Cattle, Goats, and Sheep

Viral diseases in domestic ruminants such as cattle, goats, and sheep represent a major threat to livestock industries worldwide, leading to significant economic and health repercussions. When viruses infect host cells, they utilize the host cellular machinery to replicate and disseminate, subsequently killing the cell and spreading to infect others. Viruses have developed various immune escape strategies, including degrading host immune signalling proteins and blocking antiviral gene expression pathways, thereby complicating efforts to control these diseases. The dynamic and complex interaction between viral agents and host immunity underscores the necessity of advancing our understanding of viral pathogenesis and the mechanisms of immune escape.

The goal of this research topic is to deepen the understanding of the viral mechanisms that instigate disease in bovine, caprine, and ovine hosts, and to enhance the specificity and efficacy of intervention strategies. We aim to explore the structural basis of disease onset, characterize the pathogenesis and immune escape mechanisms of prevalent viruses, and improve prevention and treatment methodologies, including vaccine development. Supporting epidemiological studies and genetic lineage tracing of viruses will add valuable insights, ultimately fostering better control over these infectious threats.

The focus is on comparative virulence, transmission dynamics, and immunological responses to key viral pathogens affecting bovine, caprine, and ovine species. This enquiry encapsulates a deep dive into the subtleties of how these viruses operate and their broader impacts, aiming to devise more effective control and prevention strategies within the livestock sector. We welcome contributions aimed at advancing knowledge in:
o Pathogenesis and immune responses are specific to each targeted virus.
o Innovations in diagnostic and vaccine technologies.
o Genomic and proteomic analyses for targeted drug development.
o Epidemiological modeling and its implications for livestock management strategies.