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: 18th August 2022
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

DNA test detects Lyme disease in horses
"The method is like having a special, specific 'fishhook' that only grabs Borrelia DNA and not the DNA of other microbes, nor the DNA of the host" - Prof Steven Schutzer.
The method works by isolating DNA from the microorganism causing the disease.  
 
A team of scientists from New Jersey have developed an advanced DNA test capable of identifying Lyme disease in a sick horse.

Professor Steven Schutzer, a professor of medicine at Rutgers University, and his team used their “genomic hybrid capture assay” to detect the disease agent – Borrelia burgdorferi – in a sample of the horse's spinal fluid. 

The test, described in the Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, works by isolating DNA from the microorganism causing the disease. 

Schutzer explained: "The method is like having a special, specific 'fishhook' that only grabs Borrelia DNA and not the DNA of other microbes, nor the DNA of the host (animal or human). Detecting DNA of the disease is a direct test, meaning we know you have active disease if it's circulating in the blood or spinal fluid.”

Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne illness in the US, transmitted to humans and animals by ticks. In horses, symptoms can include chronic weight loss, lameness and low-grade fever.

Usually, when a Lyme disease infection is suspected, antibody tests are administered. However, in the case of an 11-year-old Swedish warmblood mare, a standard PCR and antibody test did not detect an infection. 

It was Schutzer's advanced test that ultimately detected the pathogen, allowing Lyme disease to be diagnosed and successfully treated.

Professor Thomas Divers, a veterinary surgeon who led the equine team on the paper, said: "The diagnosis of Lyme neuroborreliosis (Neurologic Lyme disease) in horses is rarely confirmed antemortem and has frustrated veterinarians for years. 

“This is a very promising technique. Focused treatment against B. burgdorferi administered in this case resulted in the horse's complete athletic recovery."

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

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.