Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) costs an estimated $1.2 billion annually in the U.S. In Europe, the estimated yearly loss is €1.5 billion. The virus causes respiratory disease in piglets, and miscarriages or stillbirths in sows.

There is currently no effective vaccine or treatment for PRRSV. Some scientists are working on genetically modified pigs to block viral infection, but this strategy will take decades to have a measurable impact.

Researchers from the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources have identified a small molecule that can successfully disable the virus’ mechanisms for reproducing and evading the host organism’s immune system.