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RVC study reveals insights on tendon disease
“Our results show that proteins within tendon are renewed much more rapidly than previously thought" - Dr Chavaunne Thorpe.
Scientists examined protein turnover rates in the tendons of rats.

New treatments for tendon disease and other musculoskeletal disorders could be on the horizon thanks to research by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).

In the study, scientists examined protein turnover rates in the tendons of rats and found that tendons are dynamic tissue with varying turnover rates of proteins.

It is hoped the discovery could eventually provide a greater understanding of how tendon disease and other connective tissue disorders can be treated.

Dr Chavaunne Thorpe, Versus Arthritis Career Development Fellow at the RVC and author of the paper, explains: “Our results show that proteins within tendon are renewed much more rapidly than previously thought, with different rates of turnover in different regions of the tendon.

“These findings will help us to understand how the rate of protein renewal in tendon is affected by ageing or injury and will allow future studies to identify potential targets for treatment of tendon disease and other prominent diseases which are caused by alterations in protein turnover rates.”

The study built on previous research that found that the interfascicular matrix - the main load-bearing structures of the tendon - allows sliding between fascicles, meaning that it may be prone to damage.

In this latest study, scientists sought to establish if the turnover rate of proteins in the interfascicular matrix is greater than in the fascicles, which would help repair any damage. The results are published in the journal Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics.

'The discovery challenges long-held beliefs that almost no protein turnover occurs in tendon and instead, provides the first step in understanding how altered protein turnover contributes to the development of tendon disease,' the researchers note.

'Additionally, with alterations in protein turnover rates contributing to other musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases, this study will also help target future research into how these diseases can most effectively be treated.'

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RUMA CA&E extends survey deadline

News Story 1
 RUMA CA&E has extended the deadline for its online survey into vaccine availability.

Vets, SQPs, retailers and wholesalers will now have until Friday, 26 September at 5pm to submit their response.

The survey aims to further understanding into the vaccine supply challenges faced by the sector. It will also consider the short and long term impacts of disruption issues.

Insights are anonymous, and will be shared with industry stakeholders and government bodies.

The survey can be accessed here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA publishes Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice

The BSAVA has added a small animal nutrition advice booklet to its series of BSAVA guides.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice offers a resource for veterinary professionals to provide appropriate nutrition for animals. As well as maintaining the wellbeing of healthy pets, the guide explores how nutritional requirements change in times of illness and disease.

The guide is divided into five sections, which explore the importance of nutritional assessment; diet types; feeding at different life stages; feeding for specific situations; and feeding for specific diseases. Online resources are also in the BSAVA Library including client handouts and videos.

It is designed to be suitable for referencing, in-depth case planning and team training sessions.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice can be purchased online from the BSAVA store.