Porcine receptor cell lines for improved swine virus
Researchers have identified and cloned specific pig proteins that act as 'entry points' or receptors for many viruses, including those that cause major swine diseases. By isolating the genetic sequences for these proteins (DC-SIGN, ICAM-3, and LSECtin), they can create genetically engineered cell lines that are highly efficient at growing viruses in a laboratory setting. This allows for faster and more reliable production of viral material needed for research and vaccine manufacturing. Additionally, these proteins are key to understanding how viruses jump between species, which is critical for monitoring zoonotic diseases.
What you could build
Engineered mammalian cell lines expressing these porcine receptors, sold to veterinary vaccine manufacturers and animal health labs to improve viral yields.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia's strong poultry and livestock industry, combined with animal health research at institutions like Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, makes this relevant for local diagnostic labs.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Yaowei Huang, Xiang-Jin Meng
- Granted
- April 9, 2013
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8415118
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.