Hernando Duque

Title: Hernando Duque: Innovator in Foot and Mouth Disease Virus Research

Introduction

Hernando Duque is a notable inventor based in Greenport, NY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of virology, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by the Foot and Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV). His work is crucial for the development of effective vaccination programs to combat this worldwide problem.

Latest Patents

Hernando Duque holds a patent related to the rapid isolation, serotyping, and vaccine matching of FMDV from infected animals. This patent addresses the critical need for effective virus isolation protocols, which traditionally rely on primary cells or cell lines that may not be highly sensitive to certain strains of FMDV. His innovative approach involves the transduction of the porcine kidney cell line, LFBK, to express both the α and β bovine integrin subunits. The resulting LFBK-αβ cell line demonstrates enhanced susceptibility to FMDV infection, making it a valuable tool for detecting all serotypes of the virus.

Career Highlights

Hernando Duque's career is marked by his dedication to advancing research in virology. He works for the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture. His innovative research has led to the development of a highly sensitive cell line that can detect FMDV from experimentally infected animals, thereby contributing to the control of outbreaks.

Collaborations

Hernando has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Michael A. Larocco and Barry Baxt. Their combined expertise has furthered the understanding and management of FMDV, enhancing the effectiveness of vaccination strategies.

Conclusion

Hernando Duque's contributions to the field of virology, particularly in the context of FMDV, highlight the importance of innovation in addressing global health challenges. His work not only advances scientific knowledge but also plays a vital role in protecting livestock and ensuring food security.