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Canine distemper virus docking protein mapped
The researchers hope their insights will lead to the development of antiviral drugs.
The research could help scientists create antiviral drugs for CDV and measles.

A new study has revealed the structure of the docking protein of the canine distemper virus (CDV), potentially allowing the development of antiviral drugs which would target the protein and prevent the virus from entering host cells.

As CDV is related to measles, both belonging to the genus Morbillivirus, the study could also help inform the development of an antiviral drug which could protect humans from measles.

Although vaccines exist for both diseases, worldwide 100,000 people still die each year from measles and CDV can cause epidemics in wild animals as well as affecting domestic dogs in areas where there is limited vaccination.

The researchers from the University of Bern and the Zurich University of Applied Science used cry-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to map the viruses’ H-Protein, also known as the docking protein, at molecular level, revealing that the protein has three main domains (heads, neck and stalk) in an asymmetric structure.

Knowledge of this structure could be used to develop antiviral drugs which would block the docking protein. The researchers involved in the study, alongside scientists from the University of Marseille, have already successfully identified antibodies that can neutralise CDV.

Dimitrios Fotiadis, one of the co-authors of the study, said: “The fact that we were able to determine the structure represents a big leap forward. This now allows us to understand how the different subdomains spatially organize with each other - and provides us with a valuable blueprint to develop next-generation antiviral drugs that block the 'docking protein’.”

Philippe Plattet, another of the co-authors, said: "Simultaneously blocking the cell entry process in distemper and measles virus with several different neutralizing molecules is a promising antiviral strategy.”

The study was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science USA.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.