Novel technique to enable early of sheep scab
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Sheep scab is one of the most important diseases for UK sheep farmers.
Researchers at the Moredun Research Institute have developed a new diagnostic technique that will help in the early detection of sheep scab.
Scientists say the highly-sensitive technique, described in the journal Parasite Immunology, exploits a protein called Pso EIP-1 to detect asymptomatic infestations with very high levels of accuracy. Importantly, it will enable differentiation between vaccinated and infested sheep.
Sheep scab is a highly contagious skin disorder of livestock, caused by the parasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis. According to Moredun, the condition is one of the most important diseases for UK sheep farmers from the perspective of finance and welfare.
A fast and accurate diagnosis is key to avoiding the spread of sheep scab. However, conventional diagnosis is time-consuming, expensive, and can fail to detect asymptomatic cases.
Dr Stewart Burgess, the principal investigator at Moredun, explained: “Pso-EIP-1 overcomes this problem by allowing us to differentiate between infested and vaccinated animals, without compromising on the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic test. It will provide us with a new diagnostic antigen that can be used once the sheep scab vaccine is commercially available.”
The technique is the result of an interdisciplinary collaboration between SEFARI consortium members, the Moredun Research Institute near Edinburgh and the James Hutton Institute in Dundee. Scientists say the method marks a 'significant development' towards improved monitoring and control of the parasite.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
