Veterinary Research[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Comparative study on the diversity and abundance of bacterial composition in four non-biting synanthropic flies from The Gambia and China.
Jallow BJJ, Luciano A, Liu M … +6 more , Ma Y, Huo Y, Tan S, Huang J, Cai J, Meng F
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42298599 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Non-biting synanthropic flies from the order Diptera have long been implicated as mechanical vectors to several human and animal pathogens, yet their microbiome variations across different regions remain poor...
BACKGROUND: Non-biting synanthropic flies from the order Diptera have long been implicated as mechanical vectors to several human and animal pathogens, yet their microbiome variations across different regions remain poorly understood. Here, we compared the abundance of gut microbial composition in four species (Chrysomya megacephala, Lucilia cuprina, Musca domestica, and Physiphora clausa of non-biting synanthropic flies from two countries (The Gambia and China), providing insights into the potential pathogenic bacterial taxa they harbor. This study was conducted in Kanifing Municipal Council, The Gambia, and Changsha city, China, with sampling occurring between August and November 2023. Illumina NovaSeq6000 sequencing was used to amplify the V3-V4 region of the 16S rDNA from the midgut of these flies, which were pooled (n = 20 per sample) into 21 samples comprising Chrysomya megacephala, Lucilia cuprina, Musca domestica (from both cities), and Physiphora clausa (from KMC). Alpha and beta diversity indices were used to compare bacterial composition in the midguts of these flies. All bioinformatics and statistical analyses were performed using the BMKCloud online platform (http://www.biocloud.net). RESULTS: Taxonomic classification was annotated into 2 kingdoms, 44 phyla, and 2,379 species. Proteobacteria (41.14%) and Firmicutes (39.51%) dominated across all the samples. Significant geographic differences were observed. Shannon Alpha diversity analyses differed significantly between countries (P = 0.023), and Bray-Curtis-based PERMANOVA confirmed distinct bacterial compositions (R²=0.201, P = 0.001). Gambian flies harbored more Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica (13.79%), while Changsha samples contained higher Pseudomonas (3.99%). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of the gut microbiome of P. clausa, which was dominated by Corynebacterium (15.82%). These geographic and species-specific patterns highlight flies as reservoirs for regionally relevant pathogens. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the geographic variability in gut microbiota of non-biting synanthropic flies as potential carriers of regionally relevant bacterial taxa and motivates further investigation into fly-borne pathogen transmission in both regions. This study also provides, to the best of our knowledge, the first description of the gut microbiome of P. clausa.
An unprecedented outbreak of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis in kept Iberian wild goats (Capra pyrenaica).
Pérez-Sancho M, Perelló A, García-Seco T … +10 more , Herranz C, Arnal MC, Torre-Fuentes L, Ugarte-Ruiz M, Ortiz JA, Hernández M, Fernández de Luco D, Álvarez J, Domínguez L, Gortázar C
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42298557 · Full text
Salmonella spp. is one of the main causes of food-borne zoonotic infections in the European Union with Enteritidis being the most reported serovar. Salmonella is commonly associated with domestic animals, although it has...
Salmonella spp. is one of the main causes of food-borne zoonotic infections in the European Union with Enteritidis being the most reported serovar. Salmonella is commonly associated with domestic animals, although it has also been associated with wildlife. The domestic goat (Capra hircus) appears to have a relatively low susceptibility to this pathogen. Salmonella has been described in game meat of different wild ruminant species; however, limited information is available regarding the susceptibility of wild goats, which may represent a source of human infection.In this study, we describe the epidemiological, molecular, microbiological and pathology findings of an unusual outbreak of clinical salmonellosis in captive Iberian wild goat (Capra pyrenaica) in Spain. The outbreak, plausibly caused by S. Enteritidis (9,12:g, m:-), was characterized by abortions, neonatal mortality and sporadic cases of septicaemic salmonellosis in adult wild goats. Most isolates showed the same Minimum Inhibitory Concentration profiles using the Thermo Scientific™ Sensititre™ EU Surveillance Salmonella/E. coli EUVSEC3 AST panel. Seven isolates were sequenced and classified as ST11 showing the same set of 140 virulence genes. The genomes differed by 0-1 SNP (NC_011294.1:g.2862805G > A).Due to the unusual circumstances of the outbreak, the origin of the outbreak was also investigated through non-invasive sampling for nucleic acid detection using sponges pre-hydrated with an isotonic surfactant liquid and for bacteriology. Salmonella was exclusively detected from wild-goat enclosures, allowing to presumably rule out other potential animal-sources of infection, including peridomestic/wild animals such as pigeons, rats, rabbits and partridges present and analysed in the farm surroundings, although another untested animal source could still be involved.The unusual presentation of this Salmonella outbreak could be explained by the convergence of epidemiological and ecological factors (infection origin linked to peridomestic animals or humans, management conditions which may favour pathogen emergence, potentially increased susceptibility of wild ruminants to infection or other factors which may be involved). The non-invasive sampling approach facilitated Salmonella surveillance in this underexplored wildlife host.
Mechanisms by which SIRT2 modulates alveolar macrophage immunoreactivity to intervene in Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae infection in piglets under cold stimulation.
Xia R, Xing W, Zhu Z … +9 more , Han Q, Chen X, Shi H, Wu W, Zhang B, Lu J, Guo W, He L, Xu B
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42289692 · Full text
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) is a porcine respiratory pathogen that causes significant economic losses to the global swine industry. APP-induced piglet respiratory disease complex (PRDC) is highly prevalent in w...
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) is a porcine respiratory pathogen that causes significant economic losses to the global swine industry. APP-induced piglet respiratory disease complex (PRDC) is highly prevalent in winter and triggers an intense inflammatory response in the lungs at disease onset, accompanied by severe infiltration of porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs). The magnitude of the PAM-mediated immune response following APP infection is a key factor influencing the regression of respiratory disease. However, it remains unclear whether cold stimulation exacerbates this response. In this study, we found that cold stimulation exacerbated APP-induced lung injury and enhanced macrophage activation. Metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses revealed that immune cells underwent metabolic reprogramming in response to energy mobilisation after APP infection, thereby interfering with lung immune function. In addition, we identified silent information regulator 2 (SIRT2) as a key regulator of PAM activation and demonstrated at the molecular level that SIRT2 mediates the immune response to PAMs following APP infection by regulating the acetylation modification of NF-κB p65. In conclusion, our results elucidate the role of SIRT2 in regulating the immune response to PAMs in piglets infected with APP under low-temperature conditions. These findings may provide potential intervention targets and effective control pathways to address the overactivity of immune cells induced by environmental stress and reduce the high incidence of winter respiratory disease in piglets.
Residue 188 of the Hexon protein governs FAdV-4 pathogenicity by activating PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy.
Wang B, Qiao Q, Yang P … +9 more , Xu M, Qiu L, Zhu Y, Xiang M, Cong Y, Yang D, Li J, Yu K, Zhao J
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42288922 · Full text
Fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4) infection causes significant economic losses to the global poultry industry. Viruses often hijack host cellular machinery to facilitate their replication; however, the mechanisms by wh...
Fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4) infection causes significant economic losses to the global poultry industry. Viruses often hijack host cellular machinery to facilitate their replication; however, the mechanisms by which FAdV-4 manipulates host pathways remain poorly defined. Mitochondria, the central hubs for energy metabolism and innate immunity in hepatocytes and cardiomyocytes, are critical targets for viral manipulation, yet their role in FAdV-4 pathogenesis remains unexplored. Here, we demonstrated that FAdV-4 infection caused direct mitochondrial damage and induced PINK1/Parkin-dependent mitophagy both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the virus actively hijacked the PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy to enhance viral replication in LMH cells. Inhibition of mitophagy led to an average tenfold reduction in viral replication of pathogenic FAdV-4 in LMH cells (p < 0.05). Strikingly, residue 188 in the Hexon protein, a key virulence determinant, differentially regulated mitophagy: the R188I mutation in the pathogenic FAdV-4 attenuated mitophagy, whereas the I188R mutation in nonpathogenic FAdV-4 enhanced this process. This study elucidated the viral exploitation of mitophagy by FAdV-4 to promote viral replication, and established Hexon residue 188 and the mitophagy pathway as prime targets for developing novel therapeutics against avian adenoviral diseases.
Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis presenting as a mass-like renal lesion mimicking neoplasia in a dog: first documented case and diagnostic considerations.
Moosavian H, Jamshidi S, Pedram MS … +4 more , Kumar N, Mahdipour M, Ramezani A, Fazli M
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42288880 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) in humans is a rare and severe form of chronic renal inflammation, characterized by extensive destruction of renal parenchyma and the formation of granulomatous tissue...
BACKGROUND: Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) in humans is a rare and severe form of chronic renal inflammation, characterized by extensive destruction of renal parenchyma and the formation of granulomatous tissue with lipid-laden macrophages. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 6-year-old male Pomeranian dog exhibiting mild lethargy over the past month. Imaging studies, including abdominal ultrasonography and an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan, revealed a markedly enlarged right kidney with multiple hypoattenuating areas. A radical nephrectomy was performed to remove the affected kidney. Histopathological examination of the nephrectomy specimen confirmed a diagnosis of XGP, demonstrating extensive parenchymal destruction, abscess formation, and infiltration of CD68 + vacuolated macrophages. CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of XGP in a dog. This report highlights the importance of considering XGP in the differential diagnosis of canine patients presenting with imaging findings suggestive of renal masses or abscesses.
CACNA2D1 promotes ovulation by regulating ovarian immune cell infiltration.
Guo C, Liu J, Chen K … +3 more , Liu G, Liu D, Li Y
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42288857 · Full text
BACKGROUND: In the previous single-cell transcriptome analysis of goat ovulation, we identified that CACNA2D1 may play a critical role in immune cell infiltration during the ovulation process. Therefore, this study aimed...
BACKGROUND: In the previous single-cell transcriptome analysis of goat ovulation, we identified that CACNA2D1 may play a critical role in immune cell infiltration during the ovulation process. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the function of CACNA2D1 in ovulation. METHODS: CACNA2D1-associated signaling was pharmacologically inhibited in a mouse ovulation model to evaluate ovarian immune cell infiltration, ovulatory output, and transcriptomic changes. In vitro, CACNA2D1 knockdown and overexpression were performed in ovarian granulosa cells to assess chemokine production, intracellular calcium signaling, CaMKII activation, and cell proliferation. Granulosa cell-mediated macrophage recruitment was functionally examined using a RAW264.7 transwell migration assay. RESULTS: CACNA2D1 showed increased expression during the periovulatory period, and pharmacological inhibition of CACNA2D1-associated signaling in mice significantly reduced ovarian immune cell infiltration, particularly macrophages, accompanied by decreased ovulatory output. Ovarian transcriptomic analysis after inhibition revealed broad alterations in genes related to immune regulation, signal transduction, and cellular functional states. In granulosa cells, CACNA2D1 knockdown significantly reduced intracellular Ca levels, decreased CaMKII phosphorylation, and suppressed the expression and secretion of immune recruitment-related factors, including IL6, CCL2, and CXCL12. Restoration of calcium signaling with A-23,187 rescued the reduced expression of these chemokines. Functionally, CACNA2D1 knockdown impaired granulosa cell-mediated RAW264.7 macrophage migration in a transwell co-culture system. CACNA2D1 also influenced granulosa cell proliferative activity, whereas its effect on macrophage-related responses appeared to be more closely associated with chemotactic signaling than with macrophage proliferation. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies CACNA2D1 as a periovulatory granulosa cell-associated regulator involved in calcium-dependent chemokine production and macrophage recruitment. These findings provide new insight into ovarian immune remodeling during ovulation and offer a potential molecular basis for future studies of follicular development, ovulation efficiency, and fertility regulation in livestock species.
Cross-species transmission of host adaptation of feline leukemia virus between domestic cats and the wild felid Leopardus guigna.
Castillo-Aliaga C, Sacristán I, Stuardo CJ … +3 more , Napolitano C, Hidalgo-Hermoso E, Tarlinton RE
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42288833 · Full text
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is widespread in domestic cats and frequently spills over into wild felid populations, causing severe outbreaks in nondomestic felid populations. Domestic cats carry both endogenous FeLV (enF...
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is widespread in domestic cats and frequently spills over into wild felid populations, causing severe outbreaks in nondomestic felid populations. Domestic cats carry both endogenous FeLV (enFeLV) and exogenous variants of FeLV (exFeLV), which can recombine to generate novel variants with alternate receptor usage. In contrast, most nondomestic felids, including the guigna, do not harbor enFeLV. This study applied amplification of the FeLV envelope gene combined with Illumina sequencing to characterize FeLV envelope gene diversity and transmission dynamics in guignas (Leopardus guigna), a small wild felid native to Chile and Argentina. Seven polymerase chain reaction (PCR )amplicons from five free-ranging guignas were sequenced. Illumina sequencing was successfully conducted, and subsequent phylogenetic analysis indicated that the detected infections were most closely related to strains circulating in Chilean domestic cats. However, a distinct guigna-specific cluster with unique sequence variations was identified, suggesting that FeLV transmission also occurs among guignas independent of domestic cats. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all guigna sequences formed a Chile-specific FeLV clade, closely related to domestic cat viruses but clearly separated from international FeLV-A strains.
Clinically relevant genomic and phenotypic differences in virulence, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm-associated tolerance between Streptococcus suis lineages ST1 and ST123.
Uruén C, Marín CM, González-Vázquez LD … +3 more , Gottschalk M, Arenas M, Arenas J
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42286775 · Full text
Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive bacterium and an important pathogen in pigs and humans. It can be classified into more than 3000 sequence types (STs), among which the ST1 and ST123 lineages are highly prevalent in...
Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive bacterium and an important pathogen in pigs and humans. It can be classified into more than 3000 sequence types (STs), among which the ST1 and ST123 lineages are highly prevalent in Spain. ST1 is a globally distributed lineage, while ST123 has emerged within the last decade only in Spain. In this study, we compared the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of representative isolates from both lineages to better understand the factors driving the emergence of ST123. Comparative genomic analysis revealed higher genetic variability in ST123 than in ST1. The genomes of both lineages share approximately 1429 genes, representing about 61% of the total genome. Among the lineage-specific genes, we identified 131-143 genes encoding proteins involved in diverse biological functions, including metabolism, regulation, transport, and virulence. Some of these genes were located on genetic islands, encoding for proteins involved in nutrition and catabolism of specific carbohydrates. In mouse infection models, both STs showed a strong capacity to cause systemic infection, although they differed in tissue persistence patterns. In macrophage cultures, ST123 isolates showed reduced adherence and intracellular survival compared with ST1. In contrast, ST123 isolates demonstrated the capacity to acquire ampicillin resistance under laboratory conditions. Moreover, ST123 isolates exhibited increased biofilm formation and enhanced tolerance to β-lactam antibiotics within biofilms compared with ST1. In conclusion, the combination of virulence, increased biofilm-associated antibiotic tolerance, and increased propensity to acquire antimicrobial resistance may explain the rising prevalence of ST123 in Spain. Its recent detection in Italy further supports its potential for expansion and establishment across Europe in the coming years.
Exploration of the relationship between laboratory stress parameters and leukocyte coping capacity in ponies exposed to repetitive handling during a research project.
De Heus P, Maute J, Huber N … +6 more , Tichy A, Palme R, Steinmann E, Volz A, Cavalleri J-V, Trachsel DS
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42286640 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Stress is an umbrella term indicating increased allostatic load with the potential to reach a pathological state of the organism. In this context, cortisol concentration and neutrophil granulocytes-to-lymphoc...
BACKGROUND: Stress is an umbrella term indicating increased allostatic load with the potential to reach a pathological state of the organism. In this context, cortisol concentration and neutrophil granulocytes-to-lymphocyte ratio (NEU: LYM) are expected to increase. On the functional pathway, stress reduces the oxidative burst capacity of neutrophils and therefore, the leucocyte coping capacity (LCC) quantifying this oxygen radical generation of neutrophils. Therefore, we hypothesized that in ponies subjected to repetitive handling, LCC will decrease and will be negatively correlated with cortisol concentration and NEU: LYM ratio. Thus, LCC was measured over 90 min by a portable chemiluminometer in nine university owned ponies involved in a vaccination study that included handling and sampling over 42 days. The area under the curve for LCC (AUC) and LCC: NEU (AUC), cortisol concentration measured by a validated EIA and NEU: LYM ratio were compared before and at days 1, 3, 28, 31 and 42 after immunization by linear mixed models. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between AUC, AUC, cortisol concentration and NEU: LYM ratio. RESULTS: AUC, AUC and cortisol concentration showed a significant decrease. AUC was moderately positively correlated with NEU: LYM and weakly positively correlated with cortisol concentration, but no correlations were found for AUC. The progressive decrease of AUC, AUC, and cortisol concentration might indicate an increasing stress load. However, this was not supported by the time course of NEU: LYM ratio or by the correlations between these parameters. CONCLUSION: While the slight decrease in LCC over time partially supported our hypothesis, we found no evidence of correlations among AUC and the other measured stress parameters. This may indicate that different stress markers reflect distinct endpoints within the physiological pathways of the stress response. Future studies should confirm these preliminary results and also incorporate ethograms to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the stress response and to further evaluate the value of LCC as a stress marker in horses.
Intranasal sedation with diazepam-butorphanol in yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis): a preliminary clinical evaluation.
Nacar C, Inal KS, Ersoy BD … +2 more , Kurban EB, Nisbet HO
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42286616 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) are frequently presented to wildlife clinics, often requiring safe and effective sedation and analgesia for diagnostic procedures. Minimising stress and restraint durin...
BACKGROUND: Yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) are frequently presented to wildlife clinics, often requiring safe and effective sedation and analgesia for diagnostic procedures. Minimising stress and restraint during handling are critical for both animal welfare and staff safety. To address this need, this study evaluates the first intranasal protocol in gulls, aiming to facilitate routine examination and diagnostic imaging without physical restraint. A total of 16 gulls were included in this prospective, preliminary clinical evaluation. A combination of diazepam (8 mg/kg) and butorphanol (1 mg/kg) was administered intranasally in equal volumes into both nares. Physiological parameters were monitored, and reflexes were assessed to determine sedation depth. Radiographic imaging was performed during deep sedation. Sedation and recovery times were recorded. RESULTS: Adequate sedation was achieved in all individuals. Deep sedation, occurred at a median of 10.50 (8.18-15.88) minutes in immature and 13.03 (7.32-16.58) minutes in adults (p = 0.798). Recovery and perching were observed at a median 110.50 (83.00-128.00) minutes and 109.00 (88.00-139.00) minutes, respectively (p = 0.798). Radiographic evaluations were completed without restraint or radiation exposure to staff, yielding diagnostic-quality images. Significant differences in physiological parameters were noted between restraint and sedation periods. CONCLUSIONS: This protocol was effective and well-tolerated in yellow-legged gulls. It offers a practical, stress-reducing, and analgesic alternative to physical restraint for routine diagnostic procedures, significantly improving both animal welfare and clinical safety in wildlife practice.
Proteomics- and immunoinformatics-based design of a multi-epitope vaccine ZZ1 against Glaesserella parasuis.
Wang Z, Wei W, Feng S … +7 more , Jia C, Fu J, Wang Y, Jin Y, Liu H, Chen H, Wang X
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42286569 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Glaesserella parasuis (G. parasuis) is a prevalent opportunistic pathogen of the porcine upper respiratory tract, causing substantial economic losses to the global swine industry. Current commercial vaccines...
BACKGROUND: Glaesserella parasuis (G. parasuis) is a prevalent opportunistic pathogen of the porcine upper respiratory tract, causing substantial economic losses to the global swine industry. Current commercial vaccines exhibit suboptimal heterologous cross-protection and inherent biosafety concerns, highlighting the need for a safe, broadly effective multi-serotype vaccine. RESULTS: This study targeted outer membrane proteins (OMPs) with robust cross-serotype immunogenicity from virulent G. parasuis strains. Comparative proteomic analysis of five strains identified highly abundant, co-expressed OMPs, which were screened based on antigenicity and physicochemical properties. Epitope prediction for helper T lymphocytes (HTL), cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), and B-cells was performed on selected OMPs. Immunodominant epitopes were concatenated using flexible linkers and fused with the TLR2 agonist phenol-soluble modulin α4 (PSMα4) to engineer a multi-epitope vaccine, designated ZZ1. Screening yielded eight conserved OMPs with high antigenicity, hydrophilicity, and thermostability, from which 6 HTL, 7 CTL, and 11 B-cell epitopes were predicted. Immunoinformatic evaluations revealed that ZZ1 possesses a high antigenicity score of 1.018 (threshold: 0.4) and is non-allergenic and non-toxic. Following successful expression, in vivo trials demonstrated that recombinant ZZ1 elicited robust, specific IgG antibody responses. Challenge tests in piglets revealed 100% protective efficacy against G. parasuis serotype 4, and 80% against serotypes 5 and 13. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that ZZ1 is a promising candidate capable of conferring broad cross-protection against multiple prevalent G. parasuis serotypes, offering an innovative strategy for next-generation subunit vaccine development.
Cryopreservation of Aseel rooster sperm using different glycerol-iodixanol combinations and evaluation of post-thaw quality.
Günay E, Arıcı R, Şenlikci H … +5 more , Yağcıoğlu S, Eser A, Demir K, Alkan S, Ak K
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42286560 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Cryopreservation of avian semen is a critical tool for genetic conservation and poultry breeding programs. However, the use of glycerol, the most common penetrating cryoprotectant, is associated with dose-dep...
BACKGROUND: Cryopreservation of avian semen is a critical tool for genetic conservation and poultry breeding programs. However, the use of glycerol, the most common penetrating cryoprotectant, is associated with dose-dependent impairments in sperm function and potential contraceptive effects in the female reproductive tract. In this study, we investigated the potential of iodixanol, a non-penetrating and biocompatible medium, to improve post-thaw sperm quality when used alone or in combination with reduced glycerol concentrations. Semen samples from ten Aseel roosters were pooled and cryopreserved (n = 10) using Beltsville Poultry Semen Extender supplemented with varying concentrations of glycerol (2.5% or 5%) and iodixanol (0%, 2.5%, or 5%) in different combinations. Post-thaw sperm quality was assessed using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA), eosin-nigrosin staining, hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST), and flow cytometry to evaluate mitochondrial activity, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome damage, apoptosis, and chromatin structure. RESULTS: Extenders containing 5% glycerol yielded the highest total and progressive motility and improved plasma membrane integrity. In low-glycerol groups, iodixanol supplementation significantly improved total motility, while membrane integrity and mitochondrial activity showed numerical improvement, with the 2.5% glycerol + 2.5% iodixanol group demonstrating the most favorable overall outcomes. Flow cytometric analysis further supported these findings by showing improved mitochondrial membrane potential and plasma membrane integrity, indicative of reduced cryodamage. CONCLUSIONS: Iodixanol enhances the cryoprotective efficacy of extenders, particularly under low-glycerol conditions, by improving motility, membrane integrity, and mitochondrial activity. The combined use of glycerol and iodixanol may provide a more effective cryopreservation strategy for Aseel rooster sperm, thereby supporting genetic conservation programs and improving artificial insemination outcomes in poultry breeding.
Establishment of triplex real-time quantitative PCR assay for African swine fever virus genotype I/II recombinants.
Sun Z, Guo J, Li Y … +6 more , Sun T, Liu J, Liu Y, Nan Y, Chen H, Wu C
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42277808 · Full text
African swine fever (ASFV) leads a highly contagious and lethal hemorrhagic disease, causing a huge economic loss to the global pig industry. Recently, lethal genotype I/II recombinants were isolated and characterized in...
African swine fever (ASFV) leads a highly contagious and lethal hemorrhagic disease, causing a huge economic loss to the global pig industry. Recently, lethal genotype I/II recombinants were isolated and characterized in China and Vietnam. To differentiate the three genotypes (I, II and I/II recombinants) of ASFV in China, a triplex quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay was developed by targeting B646L, A151R and MGF360-14L genes. The detection limitation for the A151R, MGF360-14L, and B646L genes were 10 copies/μl, demonstrating a high sensitivity. Meanwhile, no cross-reactivity was observed with nucleic acids from ASFV genotype I and II or other swine viruses, confirming a high specificity for this assay. The coefficient of assay variation was below 2%, indicating an excellent repeatability. Importantly, when piglets were challenged with ASFV genotype I/II recombinant virus, the method could be used to detect the virus shedding as early as 3 dpi. In summary, a highly sensitive and specific detection method was established, which holds significant potential for rapid diagnosis and early warning of ASFV genotype I/II recombinant infection.
Pilot evaluation of a liquid biopsy test for longitudinal monitoring of disease status in dogs undergoing treatment for multicentric lymphoma.
Nascimento A, Peterson S, Connell D … +3 more , Helm Z, Leeth C, Venable R
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42277760 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Canine lymphoma is a common malignancy with an annual incidence rate of 160 cases per 100,000 dogs. The primary therapeutic protocol in clinical use is treatment with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristin...
BACKGROUND: Canine lymphoma is a common malignancy with an annual incidence rate of 160 cases per 100,000 dogs. The primary therapeutic protocol in clinical use is treatment with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP); however, relapses remain frequent, and early detection of recurrence is challenging. IDEXX Cancer Dx™ testing is a commercially available, blood-based test developed for the detection of canine lymphoma and may also have utility as a minimally invasive tool for longitudinal monitoring during treatment. Ten client-owned dogs with cytologic confirmation of lymphoma, immunophenotyping by flow cytometry and/or genotypic clonality testing by PCR for antigen receptor rearrangement (PARR), and an initial response to CHOP therapy were enrolled in this prospective longitudinal study. Whole blood was collected serially during chemotherapy and analyzed using Cancer Dx testing, with results reported as positive or negative. Clinical response was evaluated using the Veterinary Cooperative Oncology Group (VCOG) response evaluation criteria for peripheral nodal lymphoma in dogs. RESULTS: Cancer Dx test results showed concordance with clinical disease status (Somers' D = 0.70, 95% CI [0.59, 0.82]; Kendall's τ-b = 0.67, 95% CI [0.56, 0.78]). Among the ten cases, test results for eight (80%) dogs became negative, corresponding with clinical remission. Seven of ten (70%) dogs maintained negative test results during complete remission; five of ten (50%) dogs became positive at clinical relapse. Discordance between Cancer Dx testing results and clinical status at the time of initial clinical remission occurred in 2 out of 10 (20%) of the enrolled dogs. Two dogs (Dogs D and I) remained positive despite achieving clinical remission during the initial weeks of CHOP therapy, suggesting delayed or incomplete biomarker conversion. CONCLUSION: Serial Cancer Dx testing results were concordant with VCOG Response Evaluation Criteria-defined clinical status. While these results support further investigation of Cancer Dx testing as a monitoring tool during chemotherapy for lymphoma, the current performance of the assay is insufficient for reliable, stand-alone monitoring without further refinement.
Variation of rabbit serum IgA in relation to RHDV vaccination and infection: implications for serological diagnosis and epidemiological investigations.
Capucci L, Di Giovanni V, Schiavitto M … +3 more , Cavadini P, Lavazza A, Cooke B
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42265812 · Full text
Rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD) is a highly pathogenic and contagious disease caused by RHD virus (RHDV) and RHDV type 2 (RHDV2), two distinct Lagovirus europaeus belonging to the Caliciviridae family. Serological inve...
Rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD) is a highly pathogenic and contagious disease caused by RHD virus (RHDV) and RHDV type 2 (RHDV2), two distinct Lagovirus europaeus belonging to the Caliciviridae family. Serological investigations have been widely and successfully used on both wild and farmed rabbit populations. However, interpreting serological data remains uncertain, especially for IgA results in previously infected or vaccinated rabbits. The first part of this study reports the results of two independent vaccination experiments that demonstrated (a) serum IgA was present only in trace amounts and for a few weeks in about half of the vaccinated rabbits and (b) the serological profile of vaccinated rabbits changed significantly, with a marked and rapid increase in IgA, only when they were challenged with live RHDV administered orally. The second part of the study was carried out on a farm over 3 months, during which an RHDV outbreak unexpectedly occurred. We repeatedly sampled nine multivaccinated does, finding constant and medium-to-high levels of IgA in only three of them, namely the oldest ones, which had already been present a year and a half earlier during a devastating RHDV2 epidemic. At least one of the does became IgA positive, coinciding with the RHDV outbreak. A parallel survey on 61 young rabbits living in separate sheds on the farm showed a high percentage of IgA-positive rabbits in just one shed. Overall, our findings definitively demonstrate that vaccinations do not induce serum IgA, except in previously infected rabbits, and that IgA can be used as a marker of RHDV reinfection.
Prevalence of cryptosporidiosis and other enteric pathogens in calves in France: effects of rotavirus, coronavirus and E. coli vaccination and transmission routes.
Costa D, Razakandrainibe R, Dorgebray PE … +10 more , Villier V, Coppée R, Lefebvre R, Barbey S, Denizot V, Martin P, Pezier T, Lacroix-Lamande S, Favennec L, Laurent F
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42265782 · Full text
Newborn calf diarrhea is one of the most important diseases in bovine rearing, with various infectious origins. The aim of the study was to evaluate distribution of enteropathogens in calves, effect of vaccination and do...
Newborn calf diarrhea is one of the most important diseases in bovine rearing, with various infectious origins. The aim of the study was to evaluate distribution of enteropathogens in calves, effect of vaccination and document transmission routes of cryptosporidiosis. In this study, 1159 stool samples were collected from calves and dams in France in: i) an experimental unit benefiting from high hygienic conditions and ii) farms selected on historical context of recurrent neonatal calf diarrhea. Stool samples were screened for enteric pathogens using the Speed-V-Diar-5 antigen test (Virbac Diagnostics) and Cryptosporidium spp. were additionally identified by PCR, genotyped and subjected to multilocus variant analysis (MLVA). The effect of prepartum vaccination against bovine coronavirus, rotavirus and E. coli was evaluated. Results showed that Cryptosporidium was the most frequent enteropathogen, followed by bovine rotavirus. Only 16% of calves were symptomatic when systematic vaccination of dams was performed. The Speed-V-Diar-5 antigen test (Virbac Diagnostics) achieved sensitivities for Cryptosporidium detection ranging from 67 to 70% in symptomatic calves depending of sites. For the first time, C. mortiferum and C. meleagridis were reported in symptomatic calves. A large diversity of C. parvum genotypes was identified in calves, only from the zoonotic families IIa and IId. The IIaA15G2R1 genotype represented the large majority of identified genotypes. The comparison of genotypes between calves and dams suggest that vertical transmission was not the primary route of transmission. Calf-to-calf transmission and environmental contamination probably play important roles in the spread of Cryptosporidium among calves.
Development and characterization of functional sheep endometrial luminal epithelial organoids.
Guo J, Huang X, Xia R … +8 more , Gao Q, Yang H, Wang L, Mai Q, Deng M, Zhang G, Zhang Y, Wang F
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42265778 · Full text
The luminal epithelium (LE) serves as the primary interface for embryo-maternal communication during implantation. In ruminants such as sheep, the LE orchestrates critical reproductive events, including noninvasive adhes...
The luminal epithelium (LE) serves as the primary interface for embryo-maternal communication during implantation. In ruminants such as sheep, the LE orchestrates critical reproductive events, including noninvasive adhesion, conceptus elongation, and pregnancy recognition. However, existing models face significant limitations: conventional two-dimensional (2D) cultures fail to recapitulate endometrial complexity, while current organoid systems are predominantly derived from glandular epithelium. Herein, we report the establishment of a robust three-dimensional (3D) culture system for generating ovine endometrial luminal epithelial organoids using an optimized expansion medium (ExM) supplemented with CHIR99021, Y-27632, SB202190, and the EphrinA1 ligand. The resulting organoids exhibited characteristic luminal epithelium features, including polarized architecture, mucin secretion, and high expression of lineage markers (keratin 18 (KRT-18), trophoblast cell surface antigen 2 (TROP2), and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)). Moreover, we developed an apical-out polarity model that faithfully recapitulates the in vivo luminal orientation. Transcriptomic analysis confirmed the close resemblance between organoids and native luminal epithelium, as well as maintained hormonal responsiveness. Functional validation demonstrated the organoids' capacity to promote blastocyst expansion and trophoblast proliferation in co-culture systems, as well as substrate-specific adhesion that was enhanced by β-estradiol (E2) + medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) treatment. Notably, we identified erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor A (EphA) signaling as a novel regulator of stemness properties during organoid development. The successful generation of functional luminal epithelial organoids thus provides a physiologically relevant model that mirrors native endometrial structure, hormone responses, and embryo interactions. As such, it offers a valuable platform for investigating the mechanisms of endometrial receptivity and for screening potential therapeutics aimed at improving reproductive efficiency in ruminants.
A multimodal approach to equine thoracolumbar myofascial pain: integrating clinical examination, AI-based gait analysis, and the ridden horse pain ethogram.
Resano-Zuazu M, Carmona JU, Argüelles D
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42265736 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is considered highly prevalent in horses, yet it is frequently underdiagnosed due to limited understanding of its clinical presentation and functional consequences, as well as t...
BACKGROUND: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is considered highly prevalent in horses, yet it is frequently underdiagnosed due to limited understanding of its clinical presentation and functional consequences, as well as the inherent challenges associated with its clinical assessment and objective measurement. In equines, the relationship between palpation-based MPS indicators, gait asymmetries, and pain-related behaviours during ridden work remains unclear. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the association between thoracolumbar palpation pain scores and gait asymmetries measured in-hand and during ridden exercise, as well as behavioural indicators of pain assessed using the ridden horse pain ethogram (RHpE). The secondary aim was to explore the effect of a rider on gait asymmetry using a within-horse comparison between in-hand and ridden conditions. Clinical and behavioural signs and demographic variables were also described. RESULTS: Twenty police working horses from the Special Mounted Unit of the Spanish National Police in Madrid were included. At least one myofascial trigger point, identified by a palpable taut band and a hypersensitive spot, was identified in all horses (100%) in the thoracolumbar region, followed by the jump sign (85%) and restricted range of motion (80%). Local twitch responses were not observed in any horse (0%). Clinical indicators of MPS were not associated with objective gait asymmetries measures in either condition. Forelimb push-off asymmetry (HDmax) increased under ridden conditions (β = 0.196, 95% CI 0.028-0.034, p = 0.022). Training level modified this effect, with higher-level horses exhibiting greater increases in HDmax when ridden. The mean RHpE score was 7.2, with 40% of horses scoring ≥ 8 behaviours. The most frequent behaviours were ears rotated back (95%), mouth opening (95%), and intense stare (80%). No significant associations were found between RHpE scores and either MPS clinical signs or ridden gait asymmetries. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study integrating palpation-based assessment of thoracolumbar MPS with objective gait analysis and the RHpE. The findings suggest the importance of palpation as the primary diagnostic approach for MPS in horses and indicate that a multimodal approach may improve the understanding and management of equine MPS.
EZH2 enhances PCV2 replication through inhibition of MMP1 and MMP12 transcription activity.
Shan Y, Feng W, Hu Y … +6 more , Du X, Cao Y, Cao Y, Wang H, Zhang S, Bao W
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42260657 · Full text
Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), a single-stranded circular DNA virus, primarily targets the porcine immune system. It induces immunosuppression, subsequent porcine circovirus disease (PCVAD), causing substantial econom...
Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), a single-stranded circular DNA virus, primarily targets the porcine immune system. It induces immunosuppression, subsequent porcine circovirus disease (PCVAD), causing substantial economic losses to the global swine industry. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a critical member of the polycomb group (PcG) protein family with histone methyltransferase activity, plays a significant role in epigenetic regulation. While previous studies have established EZH2's role in viral infection and innate immune responses, its function in PCV2 infection remains unclear. In this study, we found that EZH2 overexpression promoted PCV2 infection, whereas EZH2 knockdown via specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) and inhibition of its activity reduced PCV2 infection. Furthermore, we identified EZH2-regulated downstream genes by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and found that MMP1 and MMP12 were significantly upregulated when EZH2 methyltransferase activity was inhibited by GSK126. Mechanistically, EZH2 overexpression repressed the promoters of MMP1 and MMP12, thereby facilitating PCV2 replication. Conversely, upon depletion of the EZH2 methyltransferase domain, inhibition of MMP1 and MMP12 promoters is lifted, thereby enabling MMP1 and MMP12 to suppress PCV2 replication. Our findings establish a link between the histone methyltransferase EZH2 and the PCV2 life cycle, advance understanding of the mechanisms underlying PCV2 infection, and suggest that drugs targeting MMP1/MMP12 activity may provide potential therapeutic approaches to prevent and control PCV2 infection and spread.
Mitochondrial DNA variation reveals shared maternal lineages between Kazakh and Turkish fat-tailed sheep breeds.
Nabiyev B, Şen U, Koçyi̇ği̇t A … +1 more , Meydan H
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42260582 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Local livestock breeds represent a significant genetic resource shaped by historical human migrations. While morphological similarities between Central Asian and Anatolian sheep breeds have long suggested a s...
BACKGROUND: Local livestock breeds represent a significant genetic resource shaped by historical human migrations. While morphological similarities between Central Asian and Anatolian sheep breeds have long suggested a shared ancestry, molecular evidence linking these populations to specific historical migrations remains limited. This study investigates the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of Kazakh (Edilbay) and Turkish (Akkaraman, Morkaraman, Awassi) fat-tailed sheep breeds using mtDNA D-loop sequencing to explore the maternal lineages of these historically connected populations. METHODS: The study included Edilbay sheep from Atyrau (Kazakhstan) and Akkaraman (Kırşehir), Morkaraman (Iğdır), and Awassi (Şanlıurfa) sheep from Türkiye. Genomic DNA was extracted using the salt precipitation method. A 531 bp fragment of the mtDNA control region (D-loop) was amplified. Genetic diversity indices were calculated using DnaSP v6, while population structure (AMOVA and pairwise F) was analyzed in ARLEQUIN v3.5, and phylogenetic relationships and haplogroup networks were reconstructed using an unrooted Neighbor-Joining tree in SplitsTree 4 and a Median-Joining network in Network 4.1, respectively. RESULTS: Our results reveal high levels of genetic diversity (Hd: 0.990) in the studied populations, indicating a rich maternal genetic diversity in the region. We found a very low genetic differentiation (F = 0.017) and shared haplogroup structure (predominantly Haplogroup B) between the Kazakh Edilbay and Turkish Morkaraman breeds. This genetic affinity reflects historical connections among sheep populations distributed across regions historically linked by pastoral movements and trade routes. In contrast, the Awassi breed formed a genetically distinct and isolated cluster (F > 0.30), reflecting distinct maternal lineages rooted in the Fertile Crescent. CONCLUSIONS: These findings clarify the maternal genetic structure of these indigenous breeds and support a historical connection, highlighting the Morkaraman and Edilbay as conserved genetic reservoirs of a shared pastoral heritage.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe