Abstract: The invention provides isolated polynucleotide molecules that comprise a DNA sequence encoding an infectious RNA sequence encoding a genetically-modified North American PRRS virus, methods to make it and related polypeptides, polynucleotides, and various components. Vaccines comprising the genetically modified virus and polynucleotides and a diagnostic kit to distinguish between naturally infected and vaccinated animals are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for treating individuals at risk of developing or suffering from pancreatic cancer. The system comprises administering to the individual a recombinant poxvirus, where the poxvirus contains a foreign nucleic acid encoding at least one pancreatic tumor associated antigen (PTAA).

Abstract: Expression of the E4 orf 1 gene of Ad-36 alone has been discovered to be responsible for the increased insulin sensitivity observed in Ad-36 infected animals, including increased adipogenesis. Ad-36 E4 orf 1 protein can be used to increase insulin sensitivity and ameliorate diabetes. Additionally, drugs that mimic the action of Ad-36 E4 orf 1 protein could be found. Ad-36 E4 orf 1 could also be used to increase fat cells in lipodystrophy. We have also discovered that Ad-36 infection in human skeletal muscle cells increased differentiation and insulin independent glucose uptake. It is expected that infection with Ad-36 E4 orf 1 gene will also cause these effects.

Abstract: The anti-viral vaccine of the present invention is produced in transgenic plants and then administered through standard vaccine introduction method or through the consumption of the edible portion of those plants. A DNA sequence encoding for the expression of a surface antigen of a viral pathogen is isolated and ligated to a promoter which can regulate the production of the surface antigen in a transgenic plant. This gene is then transferred to plant cells using a procedure that results in its integration into the plant genome, such as through the use of an Agrobacterium tumenfaciens plasmid vector system. Preferably, the foreign gene is expressed in an portion of the plant that is edible by humans or animals. In a preferred procedure, the vaccine is administered through the consumption of the edible plant as food, preferably in the form of a fruit or vegetable juice which can be taken orally.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of preparing a DNA comprising steps, wherein (a) a DNA comprising a full length copy of the genomic RNA (gRNA) or an RNA virus; or (b) a DNA comprising one or several fragments of a gRNA of an RNA virus, which fragments code for an RNA dependent RNA polymerase and at least one structural or non-structural protein; or (c) a DNA having a homology of at least 60% to the sequences of (a) or (b); is cloned into a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC). Additionally, DNAs are provided, which comprise sequences derived from the genomic RNA (gRNA) of a coronavirus which sequences have a homology of at least 60% to the natural sequence of the virus and code for an RNA dependent RNA polymerase and at least one structural or non-structural protein, wherein a fragment of said DNA is capable of being transcribed into RNA which RNA can he assembled to a virion.

Abstract: The present invention provides the amino acid and nucleotide sequences of a CCV spike gene, and compositions containing one or more fragments of the spike gene and encoded polypeptide for prophylaxis, diagnostic purposes and treatment of CCV infections.