Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 9th September 2020
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Stem cell study could reduce animals used in research
The stem cell study could curb the need for tissue obtained from animals.
Researchers aim to generate a continuous supply of pig blood cells in the laboratory.

A new method of generating pig blood cells in the laboratory, to help limit the number of animals used in research, is being developed by scientists at the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute.

Researchers say their study aims to better understand techniques for generating white blood cells (macrophages) from pig stem cells in the lab. The research is being supported by the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs).

The blood cells will be used to test vaccines and treatments for highly contagious diseases, including African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV), and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV).

Dr Tom Burdon from the Roslin Institute, said: “The ability to generate a continuous supply of pig blood cells from stem cells in the lab would be a valuable tool in helping to develop vaccines against devastating livestock diseases, with significantly reduced need for tissue from animals.”

Working with the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Regenerative Medicine and the APHA, researchers seek to further understanding of how specific cells are derived efficiently from stem cells.

Their study will explore how white blood cells develop from pig stem cells, to identify key stages as they develop into blood cells. They hope to devise a method of arresting cell development, and for controlling the final stage of differentiation into white blood cells.

Researchers believe the technique has the potential to provide a large-scale, continuous supply of blood cells for the testing and development of therapies. It could, thereby, curb the need for tissue obtained from animals.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.