Antibody response of genetically susceptible and resistant chickens to cell-free and attenuated JM-V leukosis strain and its influence on early type II (Marek's) leukosis infection.

Experiments were carried out to: 1) determine the antibody response of chickens to cell-free and attenuated preparations of JMV leukosis strain, 2) determine the differences in antibody response to these antigens between susceptible (P-line) and resistant (N-line) chickens by means of serum neutralization and indirect fluorescent antibody tests, 3) investigate the influence of maternal (passive) antibody on early (day-old) JMV vaccination and 4) investigate the influence of maternal antibody in chicks naturally exposed continuously to JM virus from day-old to 8 weeks of age on the pathogenesis of Type II leudosis (Marek's) infections and oncogenesis.