Further studies of the Koi herpesvirus. An approximately $80K grant proposal from a prominent U.S. university has been received and is currently under evaluation. This study proposes to:
- Look for the site(s) where the virus persists in the fish when active disease is not present,
- Determine if the virus becomes latent and/or a low-level persistent infection in survivors of the disease,
- Study virus reactivation in KHV survivors, and
- Study conditions that may cause reactivation.
All of the study aims are structured to improve scientific knowledge important to understanding KHV. However, the last aim has the potential to significantly impact the BHP. If an economical and practical manipulation of Koi is identified that can precipitate (re-activate) the disease in a significant portion of carrier fish, this could certainly enhance the screening process of the BHP.
Project KHV was favorably impressed with the initial proposal as were the several reviewers and, as a part of its evaluation process, a $2,500 grant has been provided to the proposal group for feasibility studies and other proposal-supportive activities. Once this phase is completed, the proposal evaluation will continue taking into consideration the results of the studies.
Plans for future projects and activities
Open solicitation of KHV related proposals. Project KHV has an open invitation soliciting proposals for KHV related works.
Funding activities
Project KHV has received donations totaling $166,933 as of November 2008.
Questions?
If you have question or comments, please contact Spike Cover at scover1@cox.net phone: 949-855-2371 or Gene Anderson at < koipondman@aol.com>.