Dr. Kichoon Lee and Ramon Zegpi Lagos. Precision gene editing to confer avian influenza resistance in chickens by targeting viral entry pathways. USDA-APHIS Veterinary services initiative - HPAI grand challenge spending plan
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) poses a serious threat to poultry health, food security, and public health. This project aims to develop gene-edited chickens with enhanced resistance to HPAI by targeting key host genes required for viral attachment and activation. Planned experiments will use the BSL3 PAAR facility on the CFAES Wooster Campus to look for efficacy in controlling disease transmission. The outcomes of this research are expected to advance innovative disease-resistant poultry strategies, reduce reliance on mass culling and vaccination, and strengthen biosecurity for a more sustainable and resilient poultry industry.