1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
Evaluate pathogenic repository located at the Scientific Research and Agricultural Institute (SRAI). This is an extension of an existing ARS partner project with Kazakhstan in which the Former Soviet Union weapons scientists are engaged in peaceful research activities.

1b.Approach (from AD-416)
SRAI has an extensive collection of both plant and animal pathogens remaining from previous work conducted under the auspices of the USSR Biological Program. In conjunction with the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) and in cooperation with ARS scientists located at Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), existing collections of microorganisms will be characterized via DNA sequence analyses.

3.Progress Report
This report serves to document research conducted under a reimbursable agreement between ARS and DOE. The objective of this project is to evaluate the animal pathogen collection located at the Scientific Research Agricultural Institute (SRAI) in Kazakhstan. Specifically, the Kazakh scientists are working to complete genome nucleotide sequencing and localization of coding genes in RNA- and DNA- viruses. This is an extension of an existing ARS partner project funded through the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) under the auspices of the ARS – Former Soviet Union Scientific Cooperation Program. In June 2005, in support of this project, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) provided a 16-channel DNA sequencer and reagents to SRAI including training on the new equipment by Signature Science, LLC (SSLLC). The sequencer is being used to carry out the objectives of the research project funded by ARS and DHS more quickly and efficiently.

This project was completed in November 2006. During the life of the project, Kazakh scientists made great progress on the sequencing of select RNA- and DNA-containing virus genomes including foot-and-mouth disease, Newcastle disease, Rinderpest, Aujesky’s Disease, and Fowlpox. All data collected and generated by SRAI has been forwarded to SSLLC, DHS, and ARS – Plum Island Animal Disease Center. Quarterly technical reports were received by ARS from the Kazakh collaborators and forwarded to DHS, SSLLC and the ARS collaborators for their review and comments. As a result of this project, Kazakh scientists gained the knowledge and capability to sequence pathogens using a high through-put sequencer. Starting in 2003, the Kazakh team received approximately two visits per year from SSLLC for training purposes and for evaluation of project progress. The initial SRAI researchers trained on the sequencer and software have now trained additional staff to operate and maintain the equipment when lead staff is absent. The Kazakh team at SRAI fulfilled their objectives of the project by the completion date, and all data generated from the project has been received by ARS, SSLLC and DHS. SSLLC has proposed additional training for the SRAI scientists to be funded by DHS and ARS.