Models for swine coronavirus research

New USDA research advances models for swine coronavirus research

STAR IDAZ IRC partner USDA Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) has launched a new research project to develop an organoid co-culture model for enteric coronavirus infections in swine.

The project aims to develop an in vitro model combining epithelial and immune cells to better investigate host–pathogen interactions during swine coronavirus infection. The model could also support the evaluation of potential interventions, including vaccines and dietary approaches, before progressing to studies in live animals.

The research is particularly relevant to priorities identified through the STAR IDAZ Coronavirus Research Roadmaps, which highlight the need for improved in vitro and organoid models to support coronavirus characterisation and the development of effective prevention and control tools.

The USDA-ARS project runs from August 2026 to July 2028.

Find out more about the research:
USDA-ARS project – Development of an organoid co-culture model for enteric coronavirus infections in swine