Veterinary Research[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Phenotypic and genomic features of virulent mecA-carrying Staphylococcus hyicus isolated from a pig farm with fatal exudative epidermitis.
Lei L, Jiao M, Zhai R … +12 more , Xu X, Chen Z, Zhang T, Song J, Zhang H, Han Y, Wu Q, Xu J, Cocolin LS, Rantsiou K, Cheng C, Song H
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42251383 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus hyicus is recognized as one of causative agents of porcine exudative epidermitis in piglets. However, research on clinical pathogenic S. hyicus remains limited. In this study, multidrug-resista...
BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus hyicus is recognized as one of causative agents of porcine exudative epidermitis in piglets. However, research on clinical pathogenic S. hyicus remains limited. In this study, multidrug-resistant S. hyicus was isolated from a large-scale pig farm with cases of fatal exudative epidermitis in piglets. By characterizing the phenotypes and genotypes of S. hyicus isolates, we provide insights for clinical management of exudative epidermitis. METHODS: Two 21-day-old piglets with clinical signs underwent necropsy and histopathological examination. 48 samples from lactating sows and suckling piglets were collected for pathogen identification. Antimicrobial and disinfectant susceptibility of the isolates was determined using broth microdilution, as well as whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used to identify antimicrobial resistance genes. Moreover, comparative genomic analysis with public genomes in the Genbank database was performed. The virulence of mecA-carrying S. hyicus was evaluated using the Galleria mellonella infection model. RESULTS: Exudative epidermitis was first observed in 3-day-old piglets. Through necropsy, pathogen isolation, and other diagnostic approaches, S. hyicus was preliminarily identified as the primary causative agent of this episode, and 23 S. hyicus were isolated from samples. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated most of isolated S. hyicus were susceptible to doxycycline, vancomycin and linezolid, while resistant to florfenicol, erythromycin, spectinomycin, amoxicillin, ceftiofur, enrofloxacin that are commonly used for pigs. Twelve resistance genes were identified by WGS, including aadD, ant(6)-Ia, aph(2'')-Ia, blaZ, erm(B), erm(C), fexA, lnu(B), lsa(E), mecA, tet(L), and tet(M). Compared with 39 GenBank genomes, mecA-carrying S. hyicus in our study carried more resistance genes and exhC islands closely related to previous Chinese strains. Based on our findings, we implemented a targeted treatment protocol that brought the outbreak under control and reduced piglet mortality to below 5%. CONCLUSION: This study successfully isolated pathogenic mecA-carrying S. hyicus responsible for high mortality in piglets, characterized its drug resistance phenotypes and genotypes, offering valuable insights for the prevention and control of this pathogen in piglets.
Seroprevalence of canine distemper in free-roaming dogs in buffer zone of Bardiya National Park, Nepal.
Bhandari M, Bastola S, Gautam R … +3 more , Shrestha M, Yadav AB, Gurung YB
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42251375 · Full text
Canine distemper (CD), caused by Morbilivirus canis of Paramyxoviridae family, is a contagious and potentially fatal viral disease affecting a wide range of domestic and wild canid species. This study aimed to determine...
Canine distemper (CD), caused by Morbilivirus canis of Paramyxoviridae family, is a contagious and potentially fatal viral disease affecting a wide range of domestic and wild canid species. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) and associated risk factors among free-roaming dogs in the buffer zone of Bardiya National Park (BNP), Nepal. A total of 91 serum samples were collected from free-roaming dogs and tested for CDV-specific IgG antibodies using an iELISA kit. The apparent seroprevalence was found to be 52.75% (95% CI: 42.5-63.0%), while the Rogan-Gladen adjusted true prevalence was 53.28% (95% CI: 42.92-63.64%). Among seropositive samples, 29.17% had high, 31.25% medium, and 39.58% low antibody titers, indicating mixed stages of exposure. Although older dogs (> 72 months) showed higher seropositivity (80%), no statistically significant association was observed between CDV seropositivity and age, sex, body condition score, and location (p > 0.05). The findings suggest that CDV is enzootic in the free-roaming dog population around BNP, representing a potential reservoir for viral spillover to vulnerable wildlife species such as leopards and tigers.
Complete genome sequencing and evolutionary analyses of duck hepatitis a viruses in Egyptian duck farms.
Yehia N, AbdelSabour MA, Said D … +5 more , El Naggar RF, Madbouly YM, Mohamed AAE, Salaheldin AH, Rohaim MA
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42249479 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Duck hepatitis virus (DHV) continues to pose a substantial threat to duck production worldwide, causing acute hepatitis, neurological manifestations, and elevated mortality rates, even in vaccinated flocks. D...
BACKGROUND: Duck hepatitis virus (DHV) continues to pose a substantial threat to duck production worldwide, causing acute hepatitis, neurological manifestations, and elevated mortality rates, even in vaccinated flocks. During 2022-2023, a significant outbreak involving DHV-1 and DHV-3 was reported in duck farms across five governorates in North Egypt. The outbreaks primarily affected Pekin ducklings aged 4-15 days, with mortality rates ranging from 50% to 70%. Affected ducklings exhibited characteristic pathological lesions, including hepatomegaly with haemorrhages, splenomegaly, and renal enlargement. RESULTS: A total of 30 liver and spleen samples collected from affected farms were analysed using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) targeting the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) and the VP1 gene. DHV was detected in 56.7% (17/30) of the samples. Among the positive cases (n = 17), DHV-1 was identified in 29.4% (5/17), whereas DHV-3 accounted for 70.6% (12/17). Phylogenetic analysis based on whole-genome sequencing revealed that DHV-1 strains clustered within sub-clade 1a, demonstrating high genetic similarity (99.2-99.8%) with previously reported Egyptian isolates and Chinese reference strains (e.g., DHAV-1-CH-2012). In contrast, DHV-3 strains grouped within sub-clade 3a and showed close genetic relatedness to Chinese strains (97.1-98.7%), while showing marked divergence (75.9-76.3% nucleotide identity) from currently used vaccine strains. Genetic analysis identified multiple mutations in both viral types. DHV-1 exhibited amino acid substitutions within VP0, VP3, and non-structural protein regions, alongside five mutations in hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) and one mutation in HVR2 of the VP1. DHV-3 demonstrated distinct mutations within the VP1, including a unique E681K substitution identified in the Egyptian strain ND3. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate ongoing genetic evolution of DHV circulating in Egyptian duck farms, characterized by the predominance of genetically distinct DHAV-3 strains, with significant divergence from currently used vaccine strains. This genetic divergence may contribute to altered vaccine performance and continued disease outbreaks; however, its impact on vaccine-induced protection requires further experimental validation. Continuous genomic surveillance and the development of updated, strain-matched or multivalent vaccines are therefore essential to control DHV infections and minimise economic losses in Egypt's duck industry.
Correction: Distribution of Staphylococcus aureus drug resistance genes, biofilm formation and cell wall characteristics in dairy cattle from dairy farms in Northeast China.
Wu W, Zhao H, Hao S … +7 more , Li G, Xue X, Li J, Cui W, Jiang Y, Ma Y, Qiao X
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42249399 · Full text
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Unilateral partial-mouth extraction achieves complete clinical remission in cats with unilateral caudal feline chronic gingivostomatitis: a case series.
Choe KH, Kim SE, Jo HM
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42249348 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is a debilitating inflammatory condition characterized by severe caudal oral mucosal inflammation and frequently necessitates extensive dental extractions. Full-mouth e...
BACKGROUND: Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is a debilitating inflammatory condition characterized by severe caudal oral mucosal inflammation and frequently necessitates extensive dental extractions. Full-mouth extraction (FME) or partial-mouth extraction (PME) is considered standard therapy; however, reported clinical remission rates vary widely, ranging from 51.8% to 67.3%, and many affected cats require long-term immunomodulatory treatment. Although inflammation is typically bilateral, a subset of cats exhibits lesions confined to one side of the oral cavity, raising questions regarding whether FME is invariably required. To date, no clinical studies have evaluated unilateral PME as a therapeutic option for cats with unilateral caudal FCGS. This study aimed to assess the clinical outcomes of unilateral PME in cats presenting with unilateral caudal FCGS. CASE PRESENTATION: Medical records of three client-owned cats diagnosed with FCGS were retrospectively reviewed. All cats exhibited ulcerative or proliferative lesions limited to one side of the caudal oral mucosa. All cats underwent unilateral PME of the affected side. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for feline calicivirus (FCV), feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), and Mycoplasma species was performed using lesional tissue samples. All cats received postoperative antimicrobial and analgesic therapy, and follow-up evaluations were conducted over a period of 6 to 12 months. All three cats tested positive for FCV, whereas FHV-1 and mycoplasma species testing was negative in all cases. Complete clinical remission was achieved in all cats within 1 to 3 months postoperatively, and none required long-term immunomodulatory treatment. No recurrence of disease or development of refractory FCGS was noted during the follow-up period. Clinical outcomes improved appreciably in cats treated with unilateral PME. CONCLUSIONS: In carefully selected cats with unilateral caudal FCGS, unilateral PME may provide favorable clinical outcomes as a less invasive surgical alternative. These preliminary findings suggest that the extent of dental extraction may be tailored to the distribution of inflammatory lesions. Larger prospective studies are needed to validate these observations and to establish evidence-based criteria for selecting candidates suitable for unilateral PME.
Nutritional, antinutritional, and heavy metal profiles of ethnopoultry botanicals in Central Uganda.
Nabatanzi A, Nakatoogo M
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42243928 · Full text
In Central Uganda, smallholder farmers rely on indigenous ethnoveterinary botanicals as phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) for indigenous chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus). However, the balance between their nutritional...
In Central Uganda, smallholder farmers rely on indigenous ethnoveterinary botanicals as phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) for indigenous chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus). However, the balance between their nutritional benefits and toxicological risks remains poorly characterized. Following an ethnoveterinary survey in Najjembe sub-county where Capsicum frutescens (ranked 2nd ), Cannabis sativa (3rd ), and Nicotiana tabacum (4) were prioritized by farmers, this study investigated their nutritional and safety profiles. Aloe vera (1st ) was excluded from analysis due to extensive prior documentation. Samples were analyzed for proximate, mineral, and antioxidant profiles using AOAC Official Methods. Antinutrients (tannins, oxalates, phytates) and heavy metals (Pb, Cd) were quantified using vanillin-HCl spectrophotometry and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry, respectively. Results showed significant nutritional variation among species (p < 0.05). C. sativa contained the highest crude protein (22.20 ± 1.1%) and was exceptionally rich in calcium and potassium. C. frutescens exhibited the highest caloric density (452.9 kcal/100 g) and antioxidant activity (IC = 11.78 mg/mL). Conversely, N. tabacum had the highest iron and magnesium but also the highest antinutrient concentrations. Critically, lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) levels in N. tabacum and C. sativa significantly exceeded FAO/WHO safety limits (Pb > 0.3 mg/kg), resulting in hazard indices (HI > 1.0), signaling potential health risks for chickens and consumers. While these plants offer high nutraceutical value, the heavy metal bioaccumulation in N. tabacum and C. sativa necessitates strict inclusion limits and processing to ensure food safety. C. frutescens is recommended as the most viable PFA for feed integration.
Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA and PVL-positive isolates, in Egyptian fruit bats.
Allam TA, Abdel-Kader F, Kadry M
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42243900 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Bats are widely distributed mammals capable of harboring diverse pathogens, including antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), particularly methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA),...
BACKGROUND: Bats are widely distributed mammals capable of harboring diverse pathogens, including antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), particularly methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), poses a significant public health concern. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence, antimicrobial resistance profile, and presence of the Panton-Valentine leukocidin (pvl) virulence gene of S. aureus in Egyptian fruit bats. METHODS: Fifty Egyptian fruit bats were captured using mist nets at both foraging and roosting sites and morphologically identified. A total of 150 samples (intestinal contents, oral swabs, and skin swabs) were collected for bacteriological examination. S. aureus isolates were confirmed by Gram staining, catalase test, and coagulase test. Genomic DNA was extracted for molecular identification using PCR targeting the 16S rRNA and nuc genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the disk diffusion method. PCR was additionally used to screen for methicillin resistance genes (mecA and mecC) and the pvl virulence gene. RESULTS: At the sample level, 67 of 150 samples (44.7%) were confirmed as S. aureus, while 42 of 50 bats (84.0%) tested positive at the bat level. The highest prevalence was observed in skin swabs (56.0%), followed by intestinal contents (40.0%) and oral swabs (38.0%). Eighteen isolates (26.9%) were classified as MRSA, and five isolates (7.5%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR), all of which were also MRSA. PCR analysis detected the mecA gene in 7 of the 18 (38.9%) MRSA isolates, while the mecC gene was not detected in any sample (0.0%). The pvl gene was identified in 6 of 67 isolates (9.0%). MRSA isolates exhibited diverse antimicrobial resistance patterns, with 61.1% demonstrating a multiple antimicrobial resistance index (MARI) value ≥ 0.2. CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence of S. aureus carriage in Egyptian fruit bats, including MRSA and PVL-positive isolates, some of which were multidrug-resistant. These findings suggest that bats may serve as ecological carriers of antimicrobial-resistant and virulent bacteria, highlighting the importance of wildlife surveillance within a One Health framework.
Development and partial validation of a TaqMan quantitative PCR assay to detect Cervidpoxvirus.
Maxwell LG, Subramaniam K, Wisely SM … +1 more , Campos Krauer JM
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42243874 · Full text
BACKGROUND: An emerging disease known as mule deerpox virus (Cervidpoxvirus muledeerpox) (DPV) has spread across North America in both wild and captive cervid populations. While little is known about its prevalence in wi...
BACKGROUND: An emerging disease known as mule deerpox virus (Cervidpoxvirus muledeerpox) (DPV) has spread across North America in both wild and captive cervid populations. While little is known about its prevalence in wild cervids, research in domestic populations indicates a high mortality associated with this pathogen, particularly in fawns. Most recently, a new Cervidpoxvirus has been reported in semi-domestic populations of reindeer in Sweden and Norway, expanding its geographical range internationally. Currently, there is no standard protocol to detect this virus, and the increasing range of this pathogen highlights the importance of a standard validated diagnostic test. RESULTS: In this study, we developed and partially-validated a TaqMan quantitative PCR assay to detect Cervidpoxvirus based on the major capsid protein using the World Organization for Animal Health's diagnostic assay guidelines. Aligning the three available whole genomes of DPV from GenBank W-848-83 (GenBank: NC_006966.1); W-1170-84 (GenBank: AY689437.1); MDPV-F (GenBank: MF966153), showed that the major capsid protein gene was highly conserved (> 99%) and primers and probe were designed to amplify a 83 bp region of this gene with 100% agreement. Analytical performance estimated that the assay was exclusive for DPV and highly sensitive (limit of detection ≥ 10 DNA copies), while diagnostic performance found that the assay was 100 times more sensitive than a standard conventional PCR assay. CONCLUSION: With this assay, detection of Cervidpoxvirus will be faster and more efficient than current methods, allowing both researchers and veterinarians to diagnose and prevent the further spread of this disease.
Comparative pharmacokinetics of trimethoprim-sulfadiazine and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in dogs.
Ekstrand C, Löwgren M, Erkas M … +4 more , Devreese M, De Baere S, Vo-Thanh J, Ferran AA
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42243796 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Potentiated sulphonamides, combining trimethoprim (TMP) with a sulphonamide such as sulfadiazine (SDZ) or sulfamethoxazole (SMX), are widely used in canine medicine. The standard 1:5 dose ratio was initially...
BACKGROUND: Potentiated sulphonamides, combining trimethoprim (TMP) with a sulphonamide such as sulfadiazine (SDZ) or sulfamethoxazole (SMX), are widely used in canine medicine. The standard 1:5 dose ratio was initially designed to achieve a plasma concentration ratio of approximately 1:19 in humans, considered optimal for antibacterial synergy. However, species differences in pharmacokinetics may influence whether this ratio is achieved and maintained in dogs. Updated pharmacokinetic data based on modern analytical techniques and unbound (active) drug concentrations are lacking. This study aimed to characterise and compare the pharmacokinetics and plasma protein binding of TMP/SDZ and TMP/SMX in dogs. METHODS: Beagle dogs were administered TMP/SDZ or TMP/SMX intravenously and orally in a crossover design. In addition, TMP was administered orally alone once. Plasma concentrations of TMP, SDZ and SMX were quantified using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using nonlinear mixed-effects modelling. Protein binding was determined by ultrafiltration, and free fractions were estimated using linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS: Oral bioavailability was high for all compounds (93-97%). TMP exhibited substantially higher clearance (0.44 L/h/kg) and a shorter elimination half-life (4.2 h) than SDZ (0.05 L/h/kg; 7.6 h) and SMX (0.026 L/h/kg; 12.6 h). TMP also showed a markedly larger apparent volume of distribution (2.67 L/kg) compared to the sulphonamides (approximately 0.5 L/kg). Protein binding differed between compounds, with population mean free fractions of 0.50 for SDZ, 0.33 for SMX, and 0.43 for TMP. Following both intravenous and oral administration, the free sulphonamide-to-TMP concentration ratios were only close to the proposed 1:19 ratio during the first hours after dosing. Thereafter, the ratios progressively increased due to the more rapid elimination of TMP. CONCLUSIONS: TMP/SDZ and TMP/SMX display distinct pharmacokinetic profiles in dogs, particularly with respect to clearance, half-life and protein binding. The commonly used 1:5 dose ratio does not maintain a stable 1:19 free concentration ratio over a 12 h dosing interval. These findings provide clinically relevant pharmacokinetic data to support rational and species-specific use of potentiated sulphonamides in dogs.
Pathogenicity and immune response of turkey A(H1N2) influenza virus of swine-origin on turkeys and mice.
Chavoix C, Pain-Deloizy C, Massin P … +17 more , Louboutin K, Souchaud F, Busson R, Guillemoto C, Orosco A, Pierre I, Briand FX, Touzain F, Amelot M, Keita A, Larcher T, Laferte JM, Niqueux E, Schmitz A, Simon G, Grasland B, Le Goffic R
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42237404 · Full text
In 2020, a new swine influenza H1N2#E genotype emerged in pig farms in France. Shortly after its emergence in swine, this virus was detected in breeding turkey farms, and was responsible of a zoonotic infection. Phylogen...
In 2020, a new swine influenza H1N2#E genotype emerged in pig farms in France. Shortly after its emergence in swine, this virus was detected in breeding turkey farms, and was responsible of a zoonotic infection. Phylogenetic analyses previously conducted on viral sequences led to the selection of three viruses: the first strain detected in turkeys, resulting from a recent spillover from swine to turkeys (A); a second virus also detected in turkeys and likely adapted to this species (B); and a swine reference strain (C). In the context of species-barrier crossing, the aim of this study was to characterize in vivo these three viruses in an avian model, the breeding turkey, and in a mammalian model, the mouse. Clinical signs, lesions, viral loads, and immune responses were evaluated. In turkeys inoculated experimentally, all three viruses caused similar very mild clinical signs and no viral shedding. In contrast, in mice, virus A caused marked clinical signs associated with mortality, along with a weak inflammatory response. Conversely, virus C caused few clinical signs but showed a more pronounced inflammatory response. Surprisingly, only two nonsynonymous mutations were present between viruses C and A: K189R in PB1 and E233K in HA. Virus B displayed an intermediate profile. There was no difference in genomic load in the lungs among the three viruses, suggesting that the observed differences in pathogenicity were due to the immune response rather than viral replication.
Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of biofilm-forming Escherichia coli from subclinical bovine mastitis and association with antimicrobial resistance.
Khalefa HS, Ali AM, Farag HS … +3 more , Kamel MS, Mosleh AAE, Bakry NM
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42237335 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Bovine mastitis is one of the most significant and costly diseases in the dairy industry, and Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common etiological agent of subclinical mastitis. This study aimed to phenotypical...
BACKGROUND: Bovine mastitis is one of the most significant and costly diseases in the dairy industry, and Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common etiological agent of subclinical mastitis. This study aimed to phenotypically and genotypically characterize biofilm-forming E. coli isolated from subclinical bovine mastitis and to investigate their association with antimicrobial resistance. A total of 254 composite milk samples were collected from cows with subclinical mastitis in five dairy farms in Egypt. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of E. coli was 26.7% (68/254), with the highest isolation rates in Giza (37.1%) and Cairo-Alexandria (30.2%) regions. Molecular screening of diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) virulence genes revealed the presence of st (10.3%), stx (5.9%), and eae (4.4%), whereas all isolates were negative for stx. All isolates harbored the biofilm-associated luxS gene, and 80.9% of isolates also carried fimH. Based on virulence gene profiles, 7.4%, 4.4%, 2.9%, and 2.9% of isolates were classified as ETEC, EPEC, STEC, and hybrid ETEC-STEC (ETST), respectively, while 82.4% were DEC-negative. Phylogrouping showed a predominance of group B1 (51.9%), followed by group A (35.3%). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed high resistance rates to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (60.3%) and cefuroxime (58.8%), whereas all isolates were susceptible to cefepime, and most were susceptible to enrofloxacin (95.6%) and nalidixic acid (94.1%). Multidrug resistance was detected in 52.9% of isolates, mainly involving resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ampicillin, tetracycline, and sulpha/trimethoprim. Biofilm formation assessed using the microtiter plate assay showed that 44.1% of isolates were moderate and 38.2% were strong biofilm producers, with significant variation between farms (p < 0.0001). Hierarchical clustering and chi-square analyses indicated that biofilm strength was associated with resistance to selected beta-lactams (amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ampicillin, and cefuroxime), phylogenetic background (especially groups A and B1), and farm origin, whereas MDR status and most virulence genes showed weak or no association. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the important contribution of environmental and commensal E. coli lineages to subclinical mastitis in Egypt and underscore the need for improved farm hygiene and prudent antimicrobial use to limit the spread of biofilm-forming and antimicrobial-resistant E. coli in dairy herds.
vetInspECT: a platform for the multicentric evaluation of treatment response after electrochemotherapy in veterinary oncology - feline tumors.
Tozon Mask N, Lampreht Tratar U, Milevoj N … +4 more , De Terlizzi F, Birk T, Sersa G, Cemazar M
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42237202 · Full text
Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a local ablative treatment and in veterinary oncology, evidence supporting ECT efficacy is mainly derived from case reports and small case series, underscoring the need for standardized, mult...
Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a local ablative treatment and in veterinary oncology, evidence supporting ECT efficacy is mainly derived from case reports and small case series, underscoring the need for standardized, multicentric data collection comparable to human oncology registries. The primary aim of this study was to establish VetInspECT, a veterinary clinical registry adapted from the human InspECT platform, to enable standardized reporting and multicentre data collection for ECT. The secondary aim was to evaluate antitumor effectiveness using data from the single centre that initiated the registry. VetInspECT was designed to systematically record patient characteristics, tumor features, treatment parameters, and follow-up outcomes in animals treated with ECT. Retrospective data spanning from 2012 to 2024 from feline patients treated at a Slovenian center were entered into the database. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) was the most frequently treated tumor (66%), followed by mast cell tumors (MCT; 12%) and other carcinomas and sarcomas. Complete response rates were highest in MCT (95%), followed by non-SCC carcinomas (90%), SCC (74%), and sarcomas (33%). Tumor size, clinical stage, anatomical location, and mucosal involvement significantly affected treatment response and progression-free survival. In conclusion, VetInspECT represents an important step toward standardized ECT reporting in veterinary oncology and supports the use of shared registries to enable robust multicentric analyses and broader clinical integration of ECT.
Differences in meat and wool quality and gastrointestinal/hypothalamic functions in Dexin fine-wool meat sheep with divergent residual feed intake.
Wang Z, Wang X, Deng Q … +5 more , Tuo Y, Ma Y, He L, Zhang Z, Zheng W
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42237163 · Full text
Residual feed intake (RFI) is an important indicator for measuring feed efficiency and can be used to screen sheep populations with low feed consumption and excellent growth performance. Its mechanism is closely related...
Residual feed intake (RFI) is an important indicator for measuring feed efficiency and can be used to screen sheep populations with low feed consumption and excellent growth performance. Its mechanism is closely related to the hypothalamus, which regulates animal feeding behavior, as well as the rumen and duodenum, which are responsible for the main digestive and absorptive functions. In theory, the hypothalamus-gastrointestinal axis is one of the key pathways affecting feed efficiency in ruminants. However, existing research has focused on the gastrointestinal microbiota and lacks systematic research on the interaction mechanism and functional expression differences between the hypothalamus and the gastrointestinal axis. The results indicate that Residual Feed Intake (RFI) significantly influences livestock quality in sheep. Regarding meat characteristics, the low-RFI (L-RFI) group exhibited a significantly higher cooking percentage in the longissimus dorsi muscle compared to the high-RFI (H-RFI) group. In terms of wool quality, L-RFI sheep were characterized by finer fiber diameters, shorter staple lengths, and an increased straight fiber rate. Mechanistically, RFI affected glutamatergic synapses, calcium signaling, and neurotransmitter receptor activity in the hypothalamus. Transcriptomic profiling further revealed that high-intake sheep showed upregulated lysosomal function, ATP metabolism, and cell cycle pathways in the rumen. Similarly, the duodenum of H-RFI sheep displayed marked activation of DNA replication and B-cell receptor signaling, alongside enhanced cholesterol transport and epithelial cell proliferation. In summary, this study, through a multi-dimensional analysis from the hypothalamus to the gastrointestinal tract, systematically reveals the physiological and molecular basis of RFI's influence on sheep feed efficiency, providing a new research paradigm for further exploring the role of the brain-gut axis in the regulation of animal feed efficiency.
Genomic surveillance and evolution of co-circulating goose parvovirus and waterfowl circovirus in China.
Lu X, Li M, Xu Q … +12 more , Xie Z, Wang Y, Liu K, Yang W, Chen Y, Gao R, Hu J, Gu M, Hu S, Wang X, Liu X, Liu X
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42231473 · Full text
As the world's largest waterfowl producer, China faces economic losses from Goose Parvovirus (GPV), worsened by waterfowl circovirus co-infections that increase pathogenicity and immunosuppression. However, current surve...
As the world's largest waterfowl producer, China faces economic losses from Goose Parvovirus (GPV), worsened by waterfowl circovirus co-infections that increase pathogenicity and immunosuppression. However, current surveillance systems for these viruses lack systematization. This study conducted a comprehensive genetic analysis of GPV and waterfowl circovirus to identify genomic characteristics and recombination events. Surveillance analysis of GPV revealed a significant host-associated genotypic divergence from 2018 to 2024 in China. Goose isolates were predominantly the Mutated GPV (MGPV, 87%), while duck isolates were mainly the duck-adapted Novel GPV (NGPV, 88%). This divergence was corroborated by a global analysis, which confirmed high intra-clade similarity but substantial overall genetic diversity. Whole-genome recombination analysis revealed one isolate as a unique NGPV recombinant, with an NGPV strain as the major parent and an Early GPV strain as the minor parent. Furthermore, our study identified a persistent, host-specific co-circulating GPV and waterfowl circovirus: MGPV/GoCV in geese and NGPV/DuCV in ducks. Phylogenetic analysis shows that waterfowl circovirus exhibits significant genetic diversity: GoCV has two lineages (GoCV-I prevalent in China, GoCV-II with cross-species transmission to European Anser anser), while DuCV has three genotypes with distinct geographical distributions and host ranges across Asia and North America. Genomic analysis corroborated these phylogenetic findings and indicated ongoing genetic variation and recombination as key drivers of waterfowl circovirus evolution. In conclusion, this study systematically elucidates the ongoing adaptive evolution and genetic plasticity of GPV and waterfowl circovirus, providing a scientific basis for targeted waterfowl disease prevention strategies.
Preclinical serum alterations and tissue changes in protein and gene expression of early cerebrospinal fluid-validated biomarkers in scrapie.
Pérez-Lázaro S, Barrio T, Sevilla E … +2 more , Bolea R, Badiola JJ
Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42231460 · Full text
Identifying reliable biomarkers for prion diseases remains a challenge, particularly for early detection in accessible body fluids. A recent mass spectrometry study on the cerebrospinal fluid proteome identified and vali...
Identifying reliable biomarkers for prion diseases remains a challenge, particularly for early detection in accessible body fluids. A recent mass spectrometry study on the cerebrospinal fluid proteome identified and validated five proteins significantly dysregulated in the preclinical stage of naturally scrapie-affected sheep. In this study, we quantified these proteins in serum and analysed their distribution and gene expression in the central nervous system, correlating these results with characteristic prion-related neuropathological features. Significantly elevated serum levels of synaptotagmin binding, cytoplasmic RNA interacting protein (SYNCRIP), phospholipase D3 (PLD3) and cathepsin D (CTSD) were detected in preclinical animals, mirroring previous cerebrospinal fluid findings. Central nervous system analyses on these three proteins together with osteopontin (SPP1) and complement component 4 (C4) revealed early and region-specific reduced immunoreactivity alongside upregulated gene expression in scrapie-affected animals, correlating significantly with prion-associated neuropathological features. Together, these findings highlight the potential of SYNCRIP, PLD3 and CTSD as promising minimally invasive biomarkers to diagnose prion diseases from the preclinical stage and provide new insights into the spatiotemporal regulation of the five proteins in the central nervous system throughout the progression of disease. Further research is needed to clarify the peripheral biomarker dynamics in relation to the neurodegenerative pathology.
Molecular epidemiology and phylogenetic analysis of Anaplasma ovis and Anaplasma marginale in Ixodidae infesting livestock in northwestern Iran.
Bagali FM, Rezaverdinejad M, Khademi F … +2 more , Esmaeili Moghaddam A, Heidari Z
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42231325 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma ovis are tick-borne obligate intracellular bacteria causing anaplasmosis in cattle and small ruminants, respectively, with considerable economic losses worldwide. Given the f...
BACKGROUND: Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma ovis are tick-borne obligate intracellular bacteria causing anaplasmosis in cattle and small ruminants, respectively, with considerable economic losses worldwide. Given the favorable ecological conditions for tick survival and the limitation of data on Anaplasma spp. in local tick populations in northwestern Iran, this study aimed to molecular and phylogenetic analysis of A. ovis and A. marginale in Ixodidae infesting livestock in northwestern Iran. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 780 ixodid ticks were collected from livestock across 198 herds in 11 counties of Ardabil Province during 2025. Ticks were morphologically identified and grouped into pools based on species and host type. Genomic DNA was extracted using a commercial kit and molecular detection of A. ovis and A. marginale was performed using PCR assays targeting the 16 S rRNA and groEL genes. Positive samples were submitted for Sanger sequencing to confirm the identity of Anaplasma spp., phylogenetic analysis was conducted using reference sequences from GenBank (NCBI) using MEGA software (version 12). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (version 25), and associations between categorical variables were assessed using Fisher's exact test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Eight tick species belonging to three genera were identified. Among the hosts, sheep exhibited the highest infestation rate (49.3%). Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum was the most prevalent species (25.3%) and was present in all sampled counties. Tick distribution varied significantly among host species (p = 0.003) and geographic locations (p = 0.002). PCR analysis detected A. ovis DNA in 16.6% (4/24) and A. marginale DNA in 8.3% (2/24) of tick pools. Positive pools were primarily associated with Rhipicephalus spp. and Dermacentor marginatus. According to the results of the statistical analysis a significant association was found between tick species and host type (χ² = 13.87, p = 0.0031), with Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum more prevalent in sheep (p = 0.001). Tick abundance varied across counties (χ² = 16.42, p = 0.002), with highest densities in Nir, Khalkhal, and Kowsar (χ² = 14.21, p = 0.0028). No significant association was observed between Anaplasma positivity and tick species (p = 0.21) or host type (p = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS: The detection of A. ovis and A. marginale DNA in ixodid tick pools indicates their circulation in Ardabil Province. However, due to pooled sampling and the limited number of positive samples, the infection rate at the individual tick level could not be determined. These findings also highlight the importance of a One Health approach, considering the interconnected roles of animal health, tick vectors, and the environment in the transmission and control of tick-borne diseases.
Mycobacterium bovis induces cellular oxidative stress via the host protein SH3PXD2B.
Liu D, Zhang T, Xu Z … +3 more , Zheng C, Jiao X, Chen X
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42231287 · Full text
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) is a major pathogen that causes zoonotic tuberculosis. It is transmitted via aerosols, colonizes the lungs of the host and causes oxidative stress in macrophages, resulting in tissue damage...
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) is a major pathogen that causes zoonotic tuberculosis. It is transmitted via aerosols, colonizes the lungs of the host and causes oxidative stress in macrophages, resulting in tissue damage. The mechanisms underlying the oxidative damage to cells induced by this infection have not yet been fully elucidated. This study investigated the effects of SH3PXD2B on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant mechanisms during M. bovis infection. The results showed that SH3PXD2B expression was significantly upregulated after M. bovis infection, and promoted the production of cellular NOX-dependent ROS and the lipid peroxidation marker MDA. Additionally, overexpression of SH3PXD2B inhibited the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway and reduced the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as CAT, SOD, and GPx. Conversely, knockdown of SH3PXD2B exerted the opposite effect and improved cell viability. In summary, SH3PXD2B orchestrates M. bovis-induced oxidative stress in macrophages through a dual mechanism: amplifying ROS production while simultaneously crippling the host's antioxidant capacity. These findings provide novel mechanistic insights into M. bovis pathogenesis and suggest that SH3PXD2B may be a potential molecular target for future research into disease resistance in cattle and the development of new therapies.
A gE/gI/US9-triple deletion inactivated vaccine provides complete protection against emerging PRV variant infection.
Yang Y, Xie Z, Zhang H … +7 more , Yang Z, Lei B, Zhao K, Zhang Y, Yuan W, Tong J, Zhang W
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42231270 · Full text
Since 2011, pseudorabies virus (PRV) variant strains have emerged in China, against which conventional vaccines confer inadequate protection, resulting in substantial economic losses. Consequently, there is an urgent nee...
Since 2011, pseudorabies virus (PRV) variant strains have emerged in China, against which conventional vaccines confer inadequate protection, resulting in substantial economic losses. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop a novel vaccine capable of effectively addressing this challenge. Here, the homology-directed repair (HDR)-CRISPR/Cas9 technology was employed to specifically target and knockout the gI, gE, and US9 genes, which were further developed into inactivated vaccines. Subsequently, these three recombinant viruses, along with a previously constructed gE/gI/US9/US2 deleted strain, were systematically evaluated. In vitro analysis revealed that all mutants exhibited viral titers and growth kinetics comparable to the parental strain but formed smaller plaques. No genetic reversion was detected after 20 passages, confirming favorable genetic stability. In animal studies, the gE/gI/US9 triple-gene deletion mutant induced stronger gB-specific and neutralizing antibodies, enhanced Th1 cytokine secretion (IFN-γ, TNF-α), and promoted lymphocyte proliferation, without altering Th2 cytokines (IL-6, IL-4). Additionally, all three inactivated virus-immunized groups achieved complete protective efficacy, surpassing the 80% protection rate observed with a commercial inactivated vaccine. Notably, the triple-gene deletion group experienced less weight loss, had a lower brain and lung viral load following the challenge. In conclusion, this study identified the triple-gene deletion strain rPRV ΔgE/gI/US9 as a highly promising inactivated vaccine candidate, offering a novel strategy for PRV prevention and control.
Companion animals as potentially important reservoir of methicillin-resistant and virulent strains of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp.
Hahaj-Siembida A, Nowakiewicz A, Greguła-Kania M … +5 more , Trościańczyk A, Osińska M, Tracz A, Korzeniowska-Kowal A, Iwanicki R
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42226244 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Microorganisms such as Staphylococcus spp., in particular coagulase-positive strains, continue to pose a serious challenge to human and veterinary medicine. These bacteria can be a component of the natural bi...
BACKGROUND: Microorganisms such as Staphylococcus spp., in particular coagulase-positive strains, continue to pose a serious challenge to human and veterinary medicine. These bacteria can be a component of the natural biota of the body but can also cause infections in companion animals, including dogs and cats. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the occurrence of Staphylococcus bacteria in companion animals, with particular emphasis on predilection sites, and to characterize these strains in the context of their epidemiological significance and threat to human health. RESULTS: We demonstrated that the dominant species were S. aureus and S. pseudintermedius, isolated primarily from the skin and oral mucosa of dogs. The most frequently tested strains were phenotypically resistant to penicillin, tetracycline, clindamycin, and erythromycin (80.2%, 64.4%; 62.4% and 59.4% respectively), while phenotypic resistance to methicillin was showed in 15 S. aureus and 42 S. pseudintermedius strains (56.4%). However, ultimately, 39 strains originating solely from dogs (22,2%) were classified as methicillin-resistant based on presence of mecA gene. Multidrug resistance was confirmed for 69.3% of the strains. Detailed characterization of the MRSA and MRSP strains revealed resistance or intermediate susceptibility to vancomycin for six and 12 strains, respectively. Since, more than one strain was present in the same dog, VIS and VRS strains were isolated from 11 of the 90 dogs tested (12%).The dominant sequence types in MRSP were the expansive, multidrug-resistant clone ST551, while ST398 was the dominant one in S. aureus, which colonizes livestock and occasionally causes infections in these animals as well as companion animals. CONCLUSION: Our studies have confirmed that clinically healthy dogs are a significant reservoir of multidrug-resistant and potentially virulent strains of S. aureus and S. pseudintermedius. Our research also confirmed that the same animal can harbor several strains belonging to the same species, differing in resistance and virulence. We also confirmed the increasing prevalence of methicillin- and vancomycin-resistant strains in the microbiota of the skin and mucous membranes of healthy dogs. In summary, our results confirm that companion animals are a relevant reservoir of Staphylococcus spp., including coagulase-positive Staphylococcus strains, which are resistant to multiple antimicrobials. Therefore, protocols for the use of antimicrobials in companion animals should be very critically reviewed, as they can be a crucial link in the chain of spread of MRSA and MRSP strains.
CRISPR-Cas9-mediated construction of a Streptococcus agalactiae vaccine for tilapia and evaluation of its protective efficacy.
Huang M, Li X, Pan T … +3 more , Wu D, Li G, Wu W
BMC Vet Res · 2026 Jun · PMID 42226151 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) causes severe tilapia streptococcosis with heavy aquaculture losses; existing vaccines have administration or efficacy limitations. This study used CRISPR-Cas9 to construct reco...
BACKGROUND: Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) causes severe tilapia streptococcosis with heavy aquaculture losses; existing vaccines have administration or efficacy limitations. This study used CRISPR-Cas9 to construct recombinant Escherichia coli DH5α-ORF4-GFP (targeting GBS scpB gene ORF4 fragment), optimized tilapia immersion immunization doses/frequencies, and evaluated the vaccine's protective efficacy, biosafety and regulatory effects via multi-dimensional assays. RESULTS: The optimal regimen was single immersion at 1.5 × 10 CFU/mL, with a maximum RPS of 73.13% and stable 65.79% in validation. Immunized tilapia showed elevated immune indices (161.40% higher platelets) and numerical increases in globulin, normal liver/kidney function, and improved oxidative stress resistance with no tissue damage. The vaccine did not alter intestinal microbial richness but modulated community structure, enriching beneficial taxa such as Alphaproteobacteria, suggesting a potential interaction between vaccination and gut microbiota that may contribute to enhanced host defense. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, this study successfully developed an effective and safe genetically engineered vaccine against GBS in tilapia. The precise CRISPR-Cas9-mediated construction strategy and confirmed immune protective effect provide a novel technical approach for controlling this disease in aquaculture and offer important references for the development of related genetically engineered vaccines.
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