SUMMARY: Researchers are working toward developing a fast and reliable test to diagnose feline infectious peritonitis, a deadly disease caused by a feline coronavirus.
THE PROBLEM: During their lifetime, the feline coronavirus infects most cats, but only a small percentage will develop feline infectious peritonitis. Signs of illness in cats with FIP include inappetence, lethargy, disorientation, vomiting and diarrhea. These vague symptoms mask the underlying severity of an otherwise rapidly fatal condition. Unfortunately, FIP is very difficult to diagnose as no single existing test is easy to perform and specific to the disease.
THE PROJECT: In earlier studies supported by Morris Animal Foundation, researchers identified blood proteins associated with FIP infections. In this study, the team will test whether these candidate proteins can diagnose FIP and assist in monitoring new anti-viral therapies. The proposed test only needs a blood sample, making it easy to obtain and enabling quick and inexpensive analysis.
POTENTIAL IMPACT: If successful, a reliable, rapid, minimally-invasive diagnostic test for FIP would transform the fight against this deadly virus for cats worldwide, providing a much-needed diagnostic tool and prompting earlier intervention to save cat lives.
Study ID
D24FE-008
Study Status
Active
Grant amount awarded
$105,584
Grant recipient
Colorado State University
Study country
United States
Investigator
Gregg A. Dean, DVM PhD