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Study finds clues to avian flu resistance
The study examined why some species of birds are more susceptible to avian flu than others.
Researchers identify genes that may provide resistance to the virus.

A new study has identified several candidate genes which may explain why some species of birds are less susceptible to highly pathogenic avian influenza than others.

A collaboration between researchers from the Roslin Institute, Edinburgh, and the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal, the study sought to determine why some species are better at resisting the disease than others.

The researchers looked at how six species of birds responded to infection with low pathogenic avian influenza (H9N2) and two strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza  (H5N1 clade 2.2 and clade 2.3.2.1). The species investigated were chickens and turkeys (which are highly susceptible to the virus), ducks and crows (which tolerate and spread the virus), and geese and pigeons (which are highly resistant to it).

After infection, tissue samples were collected from the brain, ileum and lung of the birds at three different intervals. Transcriptomic responses were recorded and compared.

The results showed that susceptible birds had higher viral loads in the brain, while resistant birds had stronger differential regulation of genes associated with nerve function in the ileum and lung. Candidate genes which might help with resistance were identified and differences in how quickly the immune systems of ducks and crows respond to different strains of the virus were also discovered.

The findings of the study could pave the way for further investigations into the candidate genes. In future, these genes could be targets for selective breed or gene editing to improve the resistance of domestic birds to avian flu.

Since 1 October 2022, there have been 174 confirmed cases of the H5N1 strain across the UK.

Dr Katrina Morris, lead author of the study, said: “Understanding the biological processes triggered by avian flu, and the factors that influence resistance, is important in the effort to limit the risk of bird flu in commercial poultry.

“Our findings show that early interaction involving the immune system is key; they also highlight the importance of interplay between the birds’ nervous and immune systems in response to infectious disease, and flag several genes that may be influential in how infection plays out.”

The study was published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology.

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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  

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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.