PROTECTIVE AND ANTIBODY-RESPONSE TO A SYNTHETIC PEPTIDE FOOT-AND-MOUTH-DISEASE VACCINE IN CATTLE

A synthetic peptide representing the region 136-151 of VP1 protein of A(22) foot-and-mouth disease virus was used in cattle, and immune response was analysed. High levels of neutralizing antibody were induced which showed peak titer 30th day post-vaccination, The vaccinated cattle were completely protected against virulent challenge. The peptide vaccine was as efficaceous as the whole-virus-gel vaccine in terms of neutralizing antibody and protection. Incorporation of glutamine muramyl dipeptide (GMDP) in peptide preparation did not enhance antibody activity.