Veterinary Research[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Initial assessment of a species-specific rebound measurement mode for non-human primates.
Liu Y, Su Y, Zhang K … +1 more , Fu J
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42186021 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Accurate measurement of intraocular pressure in non-human primates is of significant importance in veterinary clinical practice, particularly for the prevention, detection, and management of glaucoma in non-h...
BACKGROUND: Accurate measurement of intraocular pressure in non-human primates is of significant importance in veterinary clinical practice, particularly for the prevention, detection, and management of glaucoma in non-human primates. However, no veterinary tonometer is currently designed specifically for non-human primates. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the accuracy of the macaque-specific measurement mode of the iFalcon™ V100 rebound tonometer. METHODS: IOP was increased stepwise from 5 mmHg to 90 mmHg in 3-5 mmHg increments. At each target pressure, the system was stabilized for 10 s, then the iFalcon™ V100 recorded six consecutive rebound readings and their average. Each step yielded 2-3 such average values. The results were compared with a high-precision invasive pressure sensor. Linear regression and Bland-Altman analyses were performed, and the measurement range was stratified (5-30, 30-60, 60-90 mmHg) for refined assessment. RESULTS: The iFalcon™ V100 showed strong positive correlation with the invasive sensor (y = 0.99x + 0.42, R² = 0.99). The mean difference was - 0.036 mmHg (95% limits of agreement: -3.747 to 3.675 mmHg). Within the 5-30 mmHg range, agreement was excellent (mean difference: -0.063 mmHg). Acceptable agreement was maintained up to 90 mmHg. CONCLUSIONS: This ex vivo study provides an initial assessment of the iFalcon™ V100 rebound tonometer in non-human primate eyes. The device showed good correlation and agreement with an invasive pressure sensor across a wide pressure range. While the sample size was limited, these preliminary findings support the potential of this species-specific measurement mode for IOP assessment in non-human primate research. Further studies with more eyes and in vivo conditions are needed to confirm its reliability and repeatability.
Development of a new TaqMan real-time PCR for detecting Psittacine adenovirus 1 (PsAdV-1).
Charola-Ramos LA, Vega-Pita N, Bernal-Guadarrama MJ … +9 more , Quilez-Delgado R, Rodríguez-Hernández A, Heidrich R, Fernández-Gallardo N, Grande F, Weinzettl M, Figueroa-Lampo ME, Zamora-Padrón R, Martínez-Carretero E
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42185904 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Psittacine adenoviruses belong to the Adenoviridae family, that includes genera Aviadenovirus, Barthadenovirus, and Siadenovirus and may cause either fatal disease or subclinical infections. Subclinical infec...
BACKGROUND: Psittacine adenoviruses belong to the Adenoviridae family, that includes genera Aviadenovirus, Barthadenovirus, and Siadenovirus and may cause either fatal disease or subclinical infections. Subclinical infections are particularly relevant when infected birds enter the bird trade, as infected birds can act as sources of viral spread. Given the ease of transmission of these viruses, the availability of sensitive and specific diagnostic tools is essential. The purpose of this study was to establish a TaqMan-based quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay for the detection and quantification of Psittacine adenovirus 1 (PsAdV-1) in psittacine samples. RESULTS: Serial dilutions of a control plasmid and clinical samples were analysed using conventional PCR, SYBR Green qPCR and the newly developed TaqMan qPCR. A psittacine-specific 18 S rRNA TaqMan assay was used as an endogenous control to assess DNA extraction quality and sample suitability, particularly in cloacal swabs. All three methods showed comparable sensitivity when applied to liver samples. However, the TaqMan assay demonstrated improved detection in cloacal swabs compared to conventional PCR, while maintaining high specificity and showing no cross-reactivity with other avian pathogens. CONCLUSIONS: The TaqMan-based qPCR assay developed in this study provides a rapid, sensitive and highly specific method for the detection of PsAdV-1 in clinical samples. Its improved performance in cloacal swabs makes it a valuable tool for routine diagnosis and epidemiological surveillance of psittacine adenovirus infections, particularly in asymptomatic birds.
Activity of thieves-type protective blends and their individual components (cinnamon, clove, rosemary, eucalyptus and lemon essential oils) against Staphylococcus pseudintermedius strains isolated from canine otitis externa.
Szewczuk MA, Zych S, Stankiewicz T … +2 more , Błaszczyk B, Ochmian I
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42185848 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a natural component of the normal microbiota of the skin and mucous membranes of dogs. However, it can also act as a causative agent of pyoderma and otitis externa. The emer...
BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a natural component of the normal microbiota of the skin and mucous membranes of dogs. However, it can also act as a causative agent of pyoderma and otitis externa. The emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of this staphylococcus has prompted the search for new antimicrobial agents. The so-called "Thieves" blend, a relatively little-known mixture of essential oils, is based on a medieval recipe and comprises the following essential oils (EOs): cinnamon, clove, rosemary, eucalyptus, and lemon. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of this medieval blend against S. pseudintermedius as a potential alternative to antibiotics in the treatment of canine otitis externa. RESULTS: The antimicrobial activity of the blend was tested against a total of 18 staphylococcal isolates obtained from clinical cases of canine otitis externa and two reference strains of S. pseudintermedius. In total, 16 potential antimicrobial agents were evaluated, including five commercial single EOs present in the blend, one commercial Nature's Shield™ blend, six blends formulated for this study, and four chemical compounds representative of essential oil chemotypes (cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, 1,8-cineole, and d-limonene). Antimicrobial activity against S. pseudintermedius was determined using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. The time and rate of action of the EOs at effective concentrations were also assessed by time-kill analysis. The most effective oils were those in the cinnamon-like group (MIC, 0.25-0.69% v/v) and the clove-like group (MIC, approximately 1% v/v). All other blends also showed satisfactory activity (MIC, 1-2% v/v). Regardless of the strain's level of antibiotic resistance, almost all tested antimicrobials from the above groups completely killed the tested staphylococci within 30 min. Low antibacterial activity was observed for oils containing high amounts of 1,8-cineole and d-limonene. Among these, eucalyptus EO showed the highest activity (MIC, 2-4% v/v; complete elimination of staphylococci in approximately 2 h), whereas the remaining agents exhibited high MIC values and slow bactericidal activity (MIC, 4-8% v/v; 8-24 h). CONCLUSIONS: Owing to their complex chemical composition, Thieves-type blends show strong in vitro potential against Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, most likely due to their high content of cinnamon and clove EOs, which were the most effective agents in this study. Further studies are required; however, these preliminary findings suggest that, in the future, it may be possible to reduce antibiotic use in the treatment of canine otitis externa by using medicinal products containing essential oils as alternatives.
Multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Bovine Mastitis: epidemiological and molecular insights from Central Ethiopia.
Fikru E, Dulo F, Sombo M
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42185832 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Mastitis, a major concern in dairy production, significantly affects dairy cows and milk quality. Staphylococcus aureus represents one of the predominant pathogens implicated in bovine mastitis. This study ai...
BACKGROUND: Mastitis, a major concern in dairy production, significantly affects dairy cows and milk quality. Staphylococcus aureus represents one of the predominant pathogens implicated in bovine mastitis. This study aimed to isolate, identify, and characterize S. aureus from mastitis-positive cows in Central Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study on the isolation, identification, and characterization of S. aureus was conducted from October 2022 to August 2023 in the Hadiya and Kembata zones. Mastitis was diagnosed in lactating cows based on clinical examinations and the California mastitis test (CMT). All mastitis-positive cows were aseptically sampled (milk) for bacterial culture. Isolates were identified through colony characterization, Gram staining, slide catalase, oxidase, and coagulase tests, with species confirmation by MALDI-TOF biotyping. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the disk diffusion method, and resistance genes were detected by PCR. RESULTS: Out of 376 randomly screened lactating cows, mastitis was identified in 213 (56.6%; 95% CI = 0.52-0.62). Among them, 69 (32.4%) were positive for S. aureus. Significant associations were found between S. aureus mastitis and factors such as the age, tick infestation, and lesions on the skin of the udder and/or teat. All tested S. aureus isolates exhibited resistance to at least two of the nine antimicrobials tested, with 70% being multidrug resistant. The highest resistance rates were observed for penicillin G (100%) and amoxicillin (90%), whereas no resistance was found for cephalothin. All tested isolates possessed the nuc gene, and 90% had blaZ genes; however, mecA genes were not found, including those resistant to cefoxitin. These findings should be interpreted with caution, as antimicrobial susceptibility testing and molecular genotyping were carried out on 10 randomly chosen S. aureus isolates, which may not reflect all isolates. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the prevalence of S. aureus-associated bovine mastitis and the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in Central Ethiopia. The absence of mecA, despite phenotypic resistance, suggests alternative resistance mechanisms. These results underscore the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship and effective mastitis control strategies to safeguard dairy production and animal health in the region.
Avian coronaviruses induce inflammatory responses by activating p38/MAPK signaling and NLRP3/caspase-1 inflammasomes through sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1.
Xiao H, Yu S, Li S … +6 more , Xu Z, Chen J, Lai L, Lin Q, Ren T, Chen L
Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42177607 · Full text
Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a member of the γ-coronavirus genus within the Coronaviridae family, is a major pathogenic threat to the global poultry industry. Most IBV infections induce severe renal pathological le...
Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a member of the γ-coronavirus genus within the Coronaviridae family, is a major pathogenic threat to the global poultry industry. Most IBV infections induce severe renal pathological lesions in chickens, yet the renal metabolic perturbations triggered by IBV infection remain largely elusive. Herein, we applied a metabolomic approach to characterize the metabolic profiles of kidney tissues from IBV-infected specific-pathogen-free (SPF) chickens. IBV infection caused profound alterations in the renal metabolome, encompassing amino acids and their derivatives, energy metabolites, and lipid molecules. Most amino acids and their derivatives were significantly downregulated at 7 days post-infection (dpi), indicating that IBV usurps host amino acid pools to support its own replication in SPF chickens. In addition, the levels of L-glutamine, D-mannose 1-phosphate, and D-galacturonate were markedly elevated post-infection, implying their potential roles in mediating host energy utilization and facilitating viral replication during IBV infection. Subsequently, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-a key bioactive lipid molecule-was identified as a prominently upregulated metabolite in IBV-infected kidney tissues. Follow-up functional experiments revealed that IBV infection upregulates the S1P-S1PR1 signaling axis, and concomitantly activates the p38/JNK/MAPK pathway as well as the NLRP3/caspase-1 inflammasome. Notably, S1PR1 was found to modulate the p38/MAPK signaling pathway and NLRP3/caspase-1 inflammasome, thereby regulating the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. Collectively, our study delineates the comprehensive renal metabolic landscape of chickens in response to IBV infection and identifies S1PR1 as a pivotal regulatory target of IBV-induced renal inflammation. These findings provide novel mechanistic insights for the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic signaling pathways against IBV infection.
Seasonal particulate matter exposure is associated with upper respiratory microbiota restructuring in dairy heifers.
Buddhasiri S, Muangplod T, Panathiwat P … +4 more , Chandrasrimuang P, Jitjumnong J, Boonyayatra S, Singhla T
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42174615 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Particulate matter (PM), particularly PM2.5 and PM10, is a major environmental health concern linked to respiratory diseases in humans and animals. Northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai, experiences recurr...
BACKGROUND: Particulate matter (PM), particularly PM2.5 and PM10, is a major environmental health concern linked to respiratory diseases in humans and animals. Northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai, experiences recurrent seasonal air pollution from biomass burning, exposing outdoor-housed livestock to elevated ambient PM levels. The bovine upper respiratory tract (URT) harbors both commensal and opportunistic microorganisms, and disruption of this microbiota may influence susceptibility to bovine respiratory disease (BRD). However, the impact of natural PM exposure on the bovine URT microbiota remains poorly understood. RESULTS: Nasopharyngeal swabs from 25 clinically healthy dairy heifers were analyzed during low-PM and high-PM periods. During the high-PM period, peak PM2.5 levels exceeded 30 times the WHO 24-hour guideline. Alpha diversity, including observed features, Shannon diversity, and Simpson index, was significantly higher during the high-PM period than during the low-PM period. Beta diversity analysis showed significant differences in Bray-Curtis dissimilarity and Jaccard distance, indicating changes in both relative abundance-based community structure and presence-absence-based community membership. The high-PM period was characterized by altered taxonomic profiles, including higher proportions of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Gammaproteobacteria, and Bacilli, and lower proportions of Actinobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidia. Among selected dominant genera, Moraxella and Fusobacterium were significantly reduced during the high-PM period. BRD-associated genera, including Mycoplasma, Pasteurella, Mannheimia, and Histophilus, showed higher average relative abundances during the high-PM period; however, paired comparisons were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Seasonal high-PM exposure in Chiang Mai was associated with measurable changes in the nasopharyngeal microbiota of clinically healthy dairy heifers, including increased alpha diversity, altered beta diversity, changes in taxonomic profiles, and reductions in selected dominant genera. These findings suggest that ambient air pollution may contribute to respiratory microbiota restructuring in dairy heifers. Further longitudinal studies integrating microbiota composition, host immune responses, farm-level environmental monitoring, and clinical respiratory outcomes are needed to clarify whether PM-associated microbiota changes contribute to BRD susceptibility.
Disseminated angiostrongylosis with involvement of the central nervous system as a cause of sudden death in a dog in Germany.
Dembowski M, Pütsch K, Delling C … +3 more , Bauer C, Kalenyak K, Hansmann F
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42174611 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum, known as "French Heartworm", is an emerging concern in canine health in Europe. Foxes are considered the main reservoir hosts, and affected carnivores pre...
BACKGROUND: The metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum, known as "French Heartworm", is an emerging concern in canine health in Europe. Foxes are considered the main reservoir hosts, and affected carnivores predominantly show cardiovascular and respiratory signs. However, a disseminated course of infection can have diverse and severe consequences, including fatal outcomes. CASE PRESENTATION: A six-year-old male Labrador Retriever was presented to the clinic with progressive episodes of stupor lasting a few seconds and dyspnea. Radiographic examination revealed multifocal pulmonary consolidation. In addition, a prolonged blood clotting time was detected. The dog died of acute cardiovascular failure. Histological examination revealed a multifocal, moderate granulomatous pneumonia with numerous intralesional nematode first stage larvae and eggs and interstitial fibrosis in the lungs as well as nematode larvae in the kidneys, brain, spinal cord and myocardium. In addition to morphology, the identity of the nematode larvae as A. vasorum was confirmed by PCR. CONCLUSIONS: Several case reports and studies show that the endemic regions of A. vasorum are expanding, and consequently the number of affected countries is increasing. Angiostrongylosis, particularly the disseminated form, remains an underestimated cause of death in dogs and should be taken into consideration in dogs with an unknown cause of disease, especially when cardiovascular or respiratory symptoms and/or neurological signs are present.
Pyogranulomatous dermatitis associated with Sporobolomyces roseus in a dog.
Berger S, Walker D, Garigliany MM … +2 more , Remy I, Roels E
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42174599 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Sporobolomyces spp. is a yeast-like fungal organism commonly found in the environment. It has been sporadically reported in human medicine as a potential cause of dermatitis, lymphadenitis, meningitis, and en...
BACKGROUND: Sporobolomyces spp. is a yeast-like fungal organism commonly found in the environment. It has been sporadically reported in human medicine as a potential cause of dermatitis, lymphadenitis, meningitis, and endophthalmitis. In veterinary medicine, this fungus has only been described once in a dog affected with granulomatous meningoencephalitis. CASE PRESENTATION: A 3-year-old Jagd Terrier was presented with crusted, erosive and ulcerative skin lesions primarily affecting the nose, but also the limbs and tail. A pyogranulomatous dermatitis was identified on skin histopathological sections. Pan-fungal conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) performed on skin biopsies yielded a positive result. Subsequent sequencing of the PCR product identified Sporobolomyces roseus with 99.27% sequence identity. Anti-fungal treatment with a combination of voriconazole and terbinafine for two months led to an almost complete resolution of the lesions. For financial reasons, antifungal therapy was discontinued prematurely, leading to a relapse of dermatological lesions. Other anti-fungal treatments were attempted without clinical improvement leading to subsequent euthanasia of the dog. CONCLUSIONS: This case report described dermatological lesions associated with Sporobolomyces roseus in a dog and the challenges associated with anti-fungal treatment.
Discriminant analysis of morphometric traits across growth stages in native goat breeds.
Yavuz E, Önder H, Şen U … +2 more , Şahi̇n M, Yilmaz ÖF
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42174597 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Morphometric measurements can be used for the separation of animal breeds. The hypothesis of this manuscript is based on the assumption that the discriminatory power of morphometric features can change during...
BACKGROUND: Morphometric measurements can be used for the separation of animal breeds. The hypothesis of this manuscript is based on the assumption that the discriminatory power of morphometric features can change during the growth process. For this aim Angora, Hair, Kilis, and Honamlı goat breeds in three different ages that at birth, weaning (90 days of age), and mature (one year old) animals from were evaluated. METHODS: For dimension reduction Principal Component Analysis was used and Multivariate Discriminant Stepwise Analysis Method (MDASM) was used to determine the differences and grouping levels in terms of biometric measurements of nine animals per genotype such as height at wither (HW), height at sacrum (HS), body length (BL), chest girth (CG), chest width (CW), and chest circumference (CC) for discrimination of goat genotypes. RESULTS: Our results showed that there were differences among ages that at birth, weaning, and mature in spite of discrimination according to biometric measurements. The highest correct classification rate obtained for mature age (91.18%) which was 25.66% higher than age of birth. CONCLUSIONS: These findings supported that the measurements taken at mature age should be used for robust discrimination. The chest girth, chest circumference, and chest width were found the most significant variables for classification.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to traditional and conventional ectoparasite control in domestic ruminants: a cross-sectional survey conducted in Hawassa City, Ethiopia.
Gemechu KG, Ali WK, Zewde MG
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42174594 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Ruminant livestock is an integral component of agricultural production in Ethiopia. However, productivity is constrained by ectoparasites such as ticks, lice, fleas, and mites, which cause economic losses and...
BACKGROUND: Ruminant livestock is an integral component of agricultural production in Ethiopia. However, productivity is constrained by ectoparasites such as ticks, lice, fleas, and mites, which cause economic losses and transmit pathogens. In this study, traditional methods refer to ethnoveterinary remedies based on indigenous knowledge, whereas conventional methods refer to commercially manufactured ectoparasiticides. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess community knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding traditional and conventional ectoparasite control methods in domestic ruminants, identify associated risk factors, and document treatments known in Hawassa City, Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted from January to June 2025. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using Kobo Toolbox from 423 randomly selected participants. Data were analyzed using STATA version 17, and binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with KAP scores. RESULTS: Of the 423 participants, 167 (40.0%, 95% CI: 34.8-44.3) were aware of both traditional and conventional treatments, 107 (25.0%, 95% CI: 21.2-29.7) knew only traditional treatments, 48 (11.0%, 95% CI: 8.5-14.8) knew only conventional treatments, and 101 (24.0%, 95% CI: 19.9-28.2) had no knowledge of any treatments. Regarding traditional treatments, 35.5%, 38.1%, and 40.4% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge, positive attitudes, and good practices, respectively. For conventional treatments, the corresponding proportions were 73.8%, 21.0%, and 53.4%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis indicated that age, education level, occupation, religion, farming system, and farming experience were significantly associated with KAP scores for traditional treatments (P < 0.05). For conventional treatments, age, sex, religion, marital status, and farming experience were significant predictors. Additionally, the study identified ten reasons for the use of traditional treatments, fourteen types of traditional remedies, and seven types of conventional treatments. CONCLUSION: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding traditional ectoparasite control methods were generally low, whereas knowledge and practices related to conventional methods were higher, although attitudes remained low. These findings highlight the need for targeted community awareness programs to promote the safe and informed use of both traditional and conventional ectoparasite control methods.
Potent neutralization and therapeutic efficacy of bovine rotavirus-specific VHH antibodies in infected calves.
Zhao Q, Gao M, Li P … +9 more , Wang B, Li B, Rile G, Du C, Wang J, Wang H, Mei J, Zhang S, Bao F
Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42169184 · Full text
Bovine rotavirus is one of the main pathogens causing acute diarrhea in calves under 1 month of age, posing a serious threat to intensive cattle farming, and there are no effective therapeutic agents owing to the mixed i...
Bovine rotavirus is one of the main pathogens causing acute diarrhea in calves under 1 month of age, posing a serious threat to intensive cattle farming, and there are no effective therapeutic agents owing to the mixed infection of bovine rotavirus (BRV) with other pathogens. In this study, we successfully constructed a phage display antibody library by immunizing Bactrian camels, with a capacity of 6.5 × 10 and a recombinant positive rate of 81.25%. Three high-activity variable heavy-chain domains (VHH) were obtained by using BRV as the antigen, and the gene fragments were ligated with the prokaryotic expression vector pET-22b(+). The recombinant VHH was successfully expressed under induction by isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). In addition, the recombinant VHH could specifically bind to BRV in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and cellular immunofluorescence assays. The neutralizing activity of VHH was further confirmed by a virus neutralization test. Furthermore, our data showed that recombinant VHH could alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea and high fever, and reduce the amount of virus release in a BRV-challenged calf model. These results suggest that the single-domain antibodies against BRV screened in this study offer an effective treatment in BRV infection, facilitating the development of novel therapeutics for BRV.
In vitro concentration-dependent inhibition of early biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus isolated from dairy cattle using a bacteriophage cocktail.
Kaczorek-Łukowska E, Foksiński P, Szyryńska N … +2 more , Maszewska A, Krzyżaniak M
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42169092 · Full text
Bovine mastitis remains one of the most economically important diseases in dairy cattle, with Staphylococcus aureus being a major etiological agent, particularly in chronic and subclinical infections. The ability of S. a...
Bovine mastitis remains one of the most economically important diseases in dairy cattle, with Staphylococcus aureus being a major etiological agent, particularly in chronic and subclinical infections. The ability of S. aureus to form biofilms significantly contributes to antimicrobial tolerance and treatment failure, highlighting the need for alternative or adjunctive therapeutic approaches. Bacteriophage therapy has re-emerged as a promising strategy; however, data on its anti-biofilm efficacy against mastitis-associated S. aureus isolates are limited. In this study, we evaluated the anti-biofilm activity of a newly developed anti-Staphylococcus aureus bacteriophage cocktail against clinical isolates obtained from subclinical bovine mastitis. Twenty-eight non-duplicate field isolates of Staphylococcus aureus obtained from dairy cattle with subclinical mastitis on different farms in north-eastern Poland were examined using a MIC-like assay, followed by biofilm inhibition experiments conducted under high bacterial inoculum conditions. Biofilm formation was assessed after 24 and 48 h using crystal violet staining and confocal laser scanning microscopy with LIVE/DEAD™ fluorescence staining. Ultrastructural changes were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. MIC-like values did not correspond to concentrations effective against biofilm formation. Biofilm biomass and viability were reduced in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, with the most pronounced effects observed at higher bacteriophage concentrations. Microscopic analyses confirmed biofilm disruption and bacteriophage-induced cellular damage. These findings demonstrate the potential of bacteriophage cocktails as anti-biofilm agents and support further investigation of bacteriophage-based strategies targeting early biofilm development in veterinary staphylococcal infections. This in vitro study was designed to evaluate the concentration-dependent effects of bacteriophages on early biofilm development rather than clinical treatment efficacy.
Natural polymorphisms in the bovine leukemia virus microRNA cluster modulate miRNA expression and host regulatory pathways.
Pluta A, Skovgaard K, Dębski KJ … +4 more , Peloponese JM, Sokacz M, Mourouvin C, Taxis TM
Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42163396 · Full text
Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) encodes a cluster of viral microRNAs (miRNAs) that remain abundantly expressed during latency, when viral protein production is restricted. Naturally occurring single-nucleotide polymorphisms...
Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) encodes a cluster of viral microRNAs (miRNAs) that remain abundantly expressed during latency, when viral protein production is restricted. Naturally occurring single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within this locus are common, yet their functional consequences for miRNA output and host gene regulation remain poorly defined. Peripheral blood leukocytes from 53 naturally BLV-infected cattle were analyzed, and the 554-nt BLV miRNA locus was amplified and sequenced. Field-derived variants containing mutations within RNA polymerase III promoter motifs, seed regions, and termination signals were selected for functional evaluation. Reference and variant loci were co-expressed with a BLVΔ-miRNA infectious clone in HEK293T cells under controlled conditions. Mature miRNA levels were quantified by stem-loop reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and global host transcriptional responses were assessed using oligonucleotide microarrays. Predicted miRNA targets were identified using bioinformatic analyses. Sequence analysis identified 84 polymorphic sites, with a substantial proportion mapping to Pol III regulatory elements and seed regions. Variant loci displayed altered accumulation of selected mature miRNAs and shifts in predicted seed-dependent target repertoires. Transcriptome profiling revealed variant-associated modulation of innate immune-signaling components, interferon-responsive genes, antigen-presentation pathways, tumor-suppressor networks, and extracellular matrix-related processes. Enrichment analysis demonstrated a statistically significant overlap between predicted miRNA targets and downregulated transcripts. Natural polymorphisms within the BLV miRNA cluster modulate miRNA expression and are associated with distinct host regulatory signatures in a controlled experimental system. These findings suggest that sequence variation in the viral miRNA locus may contribute to differential host-virus interactions and influence mechanisms supporting viral persistence.
REAC-based bioelectrical neuromodulation as a conservative strategy in canine cranial cruciate ligament rupture: a translational pilot study.
Sanna Passino E, Caggiu S, Fatima G … +4 more , Castagna A, Fontani V, Crovace AM, Rinaldi S
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42163344 · Full text
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture is one of the most common orthopedic disorders in dogs and is associated with pain, joint instability, lameness, and progressive osteoarthritis. Although surgical stabilization is...
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture is one of the most common orthopedic disorders in dogs and is associated with pain, joint instability, lameness, and progressive osteoarthritis. Although surgical stabilization is widely used, conservative management remains relevant in selected cases, particularly in smaller dogs or when surgery is declined or contraindicated. Radio Electric Asymmetric Conveyer (REAC) technology is a non-invasive therapeutic platform designed to modulate endogenous bioelectrical activity, with a proposed role in neuromotor regulation and tissue repair. This study was designed as a translational, hypothesis-generating pilot investigation to assess whether a standardized REAC-based treatment protocol could produce a coherent and durable clinical signal in dogs with naturally occurring CCL rupture. Sixteen client-owned dogs with mono- or bilateral CCL rupture were enrolled and stratified by body weight into two groups: ≤15 kg and > 15 kg. All dogs received a standardized protocol including Veterinary Neuro Postural Optimization (VNPO), Veterinary Neuro Psycho Physical Optimization (VNPPO), and Reparative Tissue Optimization (TO-RPR). Clinical outcomes were assessed by standardized orthopedic examination at baseline, within 15 days after treatment completion, and at 2- and 12-month follow-up. All dogs completed treatment and follow-up. In dogs weighing ≤ 15 kg, complete functional recovery was observed in all cases. In dogs weighing > 15 kg, most showed either complete recovery or clinically meaningful improvement, while one dog was classified as a non-responder and referred for surgical evaluation. Clinical improvements observed in responder dogs remained stable at 12 months. These findings do not constitute definitive evidence of efficacy, but suggest the presence of a coherent and durable clinical signal supporting further investigation of REAC-based treatment as a conservative or adjunctive strategy in canine CCL disease. Future controlled studies incorporating objective biomechanical, imaging, and biological outcome measures are warranted.
An amino acid insertion in the PHI loop of the VP2 capsid protein of serotype 1 infectious bursal disease virus deeply modifies its antigenicity and abrogates its propagation into B cells.
Le Nouën C, Courtillon C, Soubies SM … +9 more , Cruz P, Dolan MA, Toquin D, Macaigne M, Amelot M, Keita A, Müller H, Härtle S, Eterradossi N
Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42163332 · Full text
Infectious bursal disease of chickens is an economically important disease induced by infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV). Serotype 1 IBDV strains replicate and destroy chicken B cells in the bursa of Fabricius (BF),...
Infectious bursal disease of chickens is an economically important disease induced by infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV). Serotype 1 IBDV strains replicate and destroy chicken B cells in the bursa of Fabricius (BF), a primary lymphoid organ essential for chicken immunity. Using a monoclonal antibody selection process applied to a chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF)-adapted serotype 1 IBDV strain, an escape mutant virus that exhibited an extra Glycine residue inserted at position 323 (P loop) of its capsid protein VP2 was isolated. This sole amino acid insertion profoundly modified the antigenicity of the virus, which was then unable to replicate in primary chicken bursal cells. Furthermore, infections of chickens with genetically engineered IBDV strains, derived from either a CEF-adapted or a virulent IBDV strain and bearing the same amino acid insertion, did not result in virus replication in the BF, nor histological lesions of the BF, and induced poor seroconversion. Molecular dynamics analyses on VP2 suggested that this insertion reduces the flexibility of the P loop and brings this loop in closer contact with the P loop. These changes seem critical for IBDV antigenicity and viral infection in bursal B cells but have a limited impact on IBDV propagation in CEF.
Hormonal superstimulation strategies for laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) in prepubertal Holstein-Friesian calves: a comparison of FSH and FSH/LH regimens.
Kulus J, Kulus M, Krajnik K … +5 more , Chwarzyński M, Jaśkowski JM, Mozdziak P, Kempisty B, Antosik P
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42163325 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) combined with IVF allows embryos to be derived from sexually immature heifers as young as 2 months old. An essential step in this procedure is hormonal stimulation to enable t...
BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) combined with IVF allows embryos to be derived from sexually immature heifers as young as 2 months old. An essential step in this procedure is hormonal stimulation to enable the growth of ovarian follicles that can be punctured. Developing the right stimulation protocol is necessary to obtain an adequate, repeatable response of the ovaries to the hormonal stimulation used. The aim of the study was to determine the usefulness of the FSH/LH mixture for ovarian follicle superstimulation in calves. METHODS: The study was conducted on eighteen calves aged 2 to 4 months, weighing between 62.5 and 112 kg. The animals were divided into 3 groups of 6 individuals and subjected to 3 days of hormonal stimulation via intramuscular injection at 12-hour intervals prior to the procedure: group I with follicle-stimulating hormone FSH (total dose of 168 IU FSH), group II with FSH/LH (total dose of 240 IU FSH/LH), and group III with a reduced dose of FSH/LH (total dose of 165 IU FSH/LH). Simultaneously, progesterone-releasing vaginal inserts were also used. Laparoscopic aspiration of oocytes was performed under general anesthesia. The fluid was evaluated under a stereoscopic microscope to locate oocyte-cumulus complexes. RESULTS: As a result of the use of superstimulation protocols, a statistically significant difference in the number of ovarian follicles was observed, with an average of 87.7 ± 29.2, 25.7 ± 4.1, and 21.2 ± 4.9 for the FSH/LH (total dose 240 IU), reduced FSH/LH, and FSH groups, respectively. The number of oocytes retrieved was 12.7 ± 4.7, 32.8 ± 7.6, 12.3 ± 2.1 for the FSH, FSH/LH, and reduced FSH/LH dose groups, respectively. A statistically significant difference in the % of oocyte retrieval relative to the number of follicles was demonstrated, and it was: 59.4 ± 14.9%, 48.8 ± 8.6%, 39.9 ± 10.1% for the FSH, FSH/LH low dose, and FSH/LH groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The FSH/LH-based calf superstimulation protocol, causes a very intense ovarian response. The proposed protocol for hormonal stimulation of calves will increase the possibility of wider application of the LOPU procedure and support early genetic selection in cattle.
Farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding lumpy skin disease in Northern Bangladesh.
Sama SP, Bhuiyan IH, Bhandari P … +7 more , Chalise R, Midul RH, Ahmed M, Shihab KM, Nirob AI, Hossain D, Ahmed J
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42163305 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Lumpy skin disease (LSD), caused by the Capripoxvirus, is an emerging vector-borne viral disease that poses a significant global threat to cattle and buffalo. This transboundary disease is causing substantial...
BACKGROUND: Lumpy skin disease (LSD), caused by the Capripoxvirus, is an emerging vector-borne viral disease that poses a significant global threat to cattle and buffalo. This transboundary disease is causing substantial economic losses and threatening the livelihoods of farmers in developing countries, such as Bangladesh. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to evaluate livestock farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) regarding LSD and identify the risk factors influencing their KAP outcomes. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involving 444 randomly selected livestock farmers was conducted in the North Bengal region of Bangladesh from July to October 2025. RESULTS: A total of 358 male and 86 female farmers participated in this study. The majority (34.7%) were aged 41-50 years, and about one-fourth (26.1%) were illiterate. The survey showed a low level of training among farmers, with only 6.1% trained in general farming, 1.8% trained in transboundary animal diseases, and 2.3% trained in biosecurity. The findings revealed that over half of the farmers demonstrated poor knowledge (53.2%), a negative attitude (53.4%), and poor practices (52.3%) regarding LSD. Logistic regression analysis found that age, sex, residence area, education, farming experience, and training in farming and biosecurity significantly influenced KAP levels. The correlation analysis showed significant positive associations between farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices. CONCLUSION: This study underscores the need for targeted farmer education, improved biosecurity measures, and strategic policy interventions to enhance KAP levels and strengthen LSD control. These findings provide valuable guidance for policymakers and farmers in implementing effective LSD prevention and control strategies, minimizing economic losses, and promoting sustainable livestock farming.
Immunological response of goldfish (Carassius auratus) to recombinant pro-hepcidin and its antibacterial activity against Aeromonas hydrophila.
Gheisari M, Ghadikolaii FP, Khoshbakht R … +2 more , Shohreh P, Kaboosi H
BMC Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42163299 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Hepcidin is a key antimicrobial peptide involved in innate immunity in fish. The present study aimed to produce recombinant pro-hepcidin from goldfish (Carassius auratus) (rpro-CuHep) and to evaluate its anti...
BACKGROUND: Hepcidin is a key antimicrobial peptide involved in innate immunity in fish. The present study aimed to produce recombinant pro-hepcidin from goldfish (Carassius auratus) (rpro-CuHep) and to evaluate its antibacterial activity as well as its effects on immune responses and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in goldfish. RESULTS: The full-length goldfish pro-hepcidin gene was synthesized using codon optimization for Escherichia coli BL21 Rosetta and cloned into the pET28a + expression vector. Successful transformation was confirmed by Colony PCR, yielding a 287-bp fragment. Recombinant protein expression was induced with 1 mM IPTG at 37 °C for 8 h. The rpro-CuHep peptide was purified using affinity chromatography and identified as an approximately 10-kDa protein by SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis. Antibacterial assays demonstrated that rpro-CuHep exhibited notable inhibitory activity against A. hydrophila and Streptococcus iniae. In vivo challenge experiments showed that goldfish treated with rpro-CuHep had significantly lower mortality rates following A. hydrophila infection compared to the control group. Furthermore, immune parameters including total protein, lysozyme activity, alternative complement activity (ACH50), and total immunoglobulin levels were significantly elevated in rpro-CuHep-treated fish (p < 0.05). Gene expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) (p < 0.05), whereas no significant change was observed in interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate that rpro-CuHep possesses strong antibacterial activity and can significantly enhance immune responses and disease resistance in goldfish. These findings suggest that recombinant pro-hepcidin has potential as an effective immunostimulant and antibacterial agent for controlling bacterial infections such as A. hydrophila in aquaculture.
Metabolomic signatures of colonic infection by Brachyspira hyodysenteriae.
Pérez-Pérez L, Galisteo C, Castillo-Peinado LLS … +4 more , Tomé-Rodríguez S, Priego-Capote F, Carvajal A, Arguello H
Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42157352 · Full text
Despite swine dysentery's relevance in the pork industry, there are still gaps in our understanding of its pathogenesis and the impact of the infection in the gut. This study aimed to characterize the in vivo colonic met...
Despite swine dysentery's relevance in the pork industry, there are still gaps in our understanding of its pathogenesis and the impact of the infection in the gut. This study aimed to characterize the in vivo colonic metabolome of pigs experimentally infected with Brachyspira hyodysenteriae at the onset of fecal shedding (Early_inf group, n = 6) and during acute clinical disease characterized by mucohemorrhagic diarrhea (Acute_inf group, n = 8) compared with non-infected controls (n = 16). The metabolic profile of the colonic contents changed progressively with disease severity, showing an intermediate pattern in the Early_inf group between the control and the Acute_inf groups (p < 0.05). In acute disease, the metabolome was defined by increased concentrations of amino acids, carnitine derivatives, arachidic acid, 1,2-butanediol, and lactic acid, along with decreased levels of anti-inflammatory compounds. In the Early_inf group, increases were observed in amino acids, organic acids, amines, myo-inositol, quinoline, and 1,2-butanediol, whereas linolenic acid and oxalic acid decreased. Integrated analysis of the colonic metabolome and metagenome revealed a strong correlation between metabolic and microbial profiles, particularly in the Acute_inf group, where differential metabolites were associated with B. hyodysenteriae, Campylobacter hyointestinalis, and Velocimicrobium ethanolgignens. Metabolites showed high predictive potential for the disease stage, with lactic acid and arachidic acid being key markers of acute infection and dihydroxyacetone and leucine distinguishing early infection. Overall, this study reveals significant alterations in the colonic metabolome and its association with the microbiota during swine dysentery, providing new insights into the pathophysiology of the disease and contributing to the development of improved prevention and treatment strategies.
Characterization of novel pesti- and astro-like viruses in hatchery-reared European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) associated with health disorders and low mortality.
Louboutin L, Cabon J, Grippon P … +6 more , Beven V, Hirchaud E, Jamin M, Boitard PM, Blanchard Y, Morin T
Vet Res · 2026 May · PMID 42157300 · Full text
European seabass is a major farmed species in Mediterranean aquaculture. Its early life stages are very sensitive to sanitary and environmental conditions and are therefore closely monitored. In this study, we characteri...
European seabass is a major farmed species in Mediterranean aquaculture. Its early life stages are very sensitive to sanitary and environmental conditions and are therefore closely monitored. In this study, we characterized new viruses recently isolated from fingerlings in a hatchery showing whitish three-dimensional lesions on the fins and sides and distended abdomens and investigated their pathologic potential. A cytopathic effect was observed 17 days post-inoculation (dpi) of homogenized internal organs at 20 °C on a CHSE cell line. Viral presence was confirmed using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) targeting double-stranded RNA patterns. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and phylogenetic analyses were used to characterize two viruses: a pesti-like virus of 13,123 nt detected both in positive supernatant and organ homogenate, named Dicentrarchus labrax Pesti-like virus (DLPLV); and an astro-like virus with a sequence of 5,068 nt detected only in the homogenate and clustering with other described fish astroviruses, and named Dicentrarchus labrax Astro-like virus (DLALV). In vivo, direct or waterborne contact of healthy fish with fish showing clinical signs induced very sporadic and fleeting clinical signs, while bath infection with DLPLV alone induced 8 to 16% mortality for 162-days post-hatching fish. Seroneutralization tests demonstrated the existence of a humoral response specific to DLPLV, regardless of the route of infection. This work highlights the wide diversity of aquatic viruses and illustrates the complexity of reproducing experimentally the clinical signs observed in hatcheries, especially in the case of multifactorial phenomena. The diagnostic tools developed will be usable for surveillance and fast detection of any new clinical cases.
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