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Stem cell breakthrough benefits horse health
Horses
Scientists have created working nerve cells from horse stem cells for the first time.
Discovery could offer new treatments for neurological conditions

A breakthrough in stem cell research could pave the way for new treatments for neurological conditions in horses. For the first time, Edinburgh scientists have succeeded in creating working nerve cells from horse stem cells.

Researchers from the Roslin Institute say the breakthrough could help horses suffering from neurological conditions such as equine grass sickness (EGS) and conditions similar to motor neurone disease in humans.

EGS affects about 600 horses in the UK each year, causing nerve damage throughout the body. No specific treatments are currently available and the disease is poorly understood. EGS in its most serious form is usually fatal.

Roslin scientists took skin cells from a young horse, turning them into stem cells using a technique developed for human cells. These cells were then used to create nerve cells in the laboratory.

The team tested the functionality of the cells in a test tube, proving they could transmit nerve signals.

Scientists say this discovery provides a powerful new tool for studying horse diseases and testing new drugs.

The study has been published in Stem Cells and Development. Author Dr Xavier Donadeu from the institute explained: "Stem cells hold huge therapeutic potential both for people and animals.

"Our research is an important step towards realising that potential for horses and provides an opportunity to validate stem-cell based therapies before clinical studies in humans."

Veterinary surgeons all over the world already use stem cell therapies to treat horses for different conditions. However, these therapies use adult stem cells, which are harder to maintain and more restricted in the types of cells they can become.

Mostly used to treat tendon ligament and joint problems, the efficacy of these therapies is not entirely proven.

The study is available online here http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/scd.2013.0565.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.