Abstract: The present invention provides monoclonal antibodies that bind to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) spike protein, and methods of use. In various embodiments of the invention, the antibodies are fully human antibodies that bind to MERS-CoV spike protein. In some embodiments, the antibodies of the invention are useful for inhibiting or neutralizing MERS-CoV activity, thus providing a means of treating or preventing MERS infection in humans. In some embodiments, the invention provides for a combination of one or more antibodies that bind to the MERS-CoV spike protein for use in treating MERS infection. In certain embodiments, the one or more antibodies bind to distinct non-competing epitopes comprised in the receptor binding domain of the MERS-CoV spike protein.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for locating critical portions or sites on the spike protein (S protein) of SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) responsible for the viral infection that causes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The present invention also provides new synthetic peptides targeting such critical portions or sites of the S protein of SARS-CoV for preventing or treating of SARS-CoV infection in a subject. The present invention further provides methods of testing antiviral activity exerted by antiviral agents using real-time quantitative PCR.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and means for distinguishing FECV and FIPV, and methods and means for determining whether FIPV is present in a sample. Further provided are primers and probes for detecting FIPV specific nucleic acid sequences encoding a spike protein, antibodies for detecting a FIPV, and an immunogenic composition and use thereof for eliciting an immune response against a feline coronavirus, preferably a FIPV.

Abstract: Provided is a method for determining whether a feline is infected with pathogenic Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIPV) or Feline Enteric Infection Virus (FECV). The method involves determining the presence or absence of intact or mutated S1/S2 and S2? cleavage sites in the spike protein of serotype 1 feline coronaviruses (FCoV1). The presence of both intact cleavage sites is indicative of FECV. The presence of a mutation in one or both cleavage sites is indicative of FIPV. The absence of both sites is indicative of an absence of FCoV1 infection. Compositions for use in determining infection and kits are also provided.

Abstract: Provided is a method for determining whether a feline is infected with pathogenic Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIPV) or Feline Enteric Infection Virus (FECV). The method involves determining the presence or absence of intact or mutated S1/S2 and S2? cleavage sites in the spike protein of serotype 1 feline coronaviruses (FCoV1). The presence of both intact cleavage sites is indicative of FECV. The presence of a mutation in one or both cleavage sites is indicative of FIPV. The absence of both sites is indicative of an absence of FCoV1 infection. Compositions for use in determining infection and kits are also provided.