Development of a Multi-Stage Vaccine against Paratuberculosis in Cattle

In this project we will identify antigens from different phases of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) infection and formulate these into a vaccine with targeted activation of protective cell-mediated immune responses. The employment of antigens from both acute and latent stages of the infection is hypothesized to induce immune responses that are protective against new infections and prevent reactivation of chronic infections. Development of a multi-stage vaccine against paratuberculosis has the potential to significantly increase the health and welfare of infected cattle and reduce the environmental contamination with this potentially zoonotic bacterium.