Protective efficacy of adenovirus-mediated small interfering RNAs against encephalomyocarditis virus challenge in mice

► Four rAd5 expressing shRNAs targeting 1D and 3AB genes of EMCV were constructed. ► The shRNA inhibited EMCV replication in Marc-145 cells in protein and RNA levels. ► The shRNAs decreased EMCV load in the brain of mice post-challenge. ► The shRNAs provided protection against EMCV challenge in mice by 62.5-87.5%.