Patent Number: 6559121
Docket Number: 15301
Serial Number: 9860793
Date Patented: 05/06/2003

Technology Description: ARS researchers have identified an allergen from sheep scab mite (Psoroptes ovis) that could be used as a candidate antigen to develop a vaccine for protecting cattle against this economically important ectoparasite. Psoropotes ovis infestation can cause a debilitating dermatitis commonly referred to as scabies or mange. Scabies, commonly called mange, causes lesions and sores on the animal's body. ARS' allergen elicits an immediate hypersensitivity response. This hypersensitivity response causes the cattle to itch, encouraging intense behavioral grooming, eliminating the mites, and preventing mite infestation. Scabies is no longer considered a serious U.S. livestock pest. However, it is a problem in some developing countries. A vaccine approach for controlling scabies offers a sustainable alternative to chemical control. Companies making veterinary vaccines could further develop this technology. South American cattle producers and developing countries are potential customers for such vaccines. Reference: Please refer to USPN 6,559,121, "Vaccines for the Protection of Cattle from Psoroptic Scabies," which issued on May 6, 2003, and is a division of S.N. 09/366,603, which was filed on August 13, 1999. Inventors: John H. Pruett Livestock Insects Research Kerrville, TX 78029 (830) 792-0385 / Fax: (830) 792-0380 Kevin B. Temeyer (Same as first inventor) (830) 792-0330 / Fax: (830) 792-0302 ktemeyer@ktc.com Sidney E. Kunz (Same as first inventor) (830) 792-0303 / Fax: (830) 792-0302 skunz@ktc.com William B. Fisher (Same as first inventor) (830) 792-0304 / Fax: (830) 792-0302