Animal Diseases

Hereditary epilepsy successfully treated in mouse model

Parasitic tapeworm — a risk to domestic dogs and humans — found in Washington coyotes

A disease-causing tapeworm has been detected in Washington coyotes, which can spread to domestic dogs and humans if ingested through contaminated food or feces. The parasite's life cycle involves multiple hosts, including rodents and other canid species, making it a public health threat.

Thermal drone monitoring a promising way to monitor dolphin health

Marine mammal experts use drone-based thermal imaging to measure dolphin surface temperature and respiration rates, detecting biologically meaningful changes in physiological state. The study validates the accuracy of drone measurements under controlled conditions, paving the way for safer health monitoring of marine mammals.

Continuous spread: Raccoon roundworm detected in nine European countries

A comprehensive analysis reveals that raccoon roundworm has spread across nine European countries, primarily in Central Europe. The parasite can infect humans, causing severe neurological damage or death, especially in children.

Receptors in mammary glands make livestock and humans inviting hosts for avian flu

A study by Iowa State University researchers reveals that avian influenza can infect livestock and humans through their mammary glands, which have high levels of sialic acids. This increases the risk of transmission and potentially more dangerous adaptations emerging.

Rabies in Peru highlights global threats of health inequity

A study in Arequipa, Peru found that efforts to track dog-related rabies in poorer areas were lacking, despite higher disease prevalence. An active surveillance system improved data collection and analysis, revealing striking differences between risk and surveillance.

New study reveals not all bats carry equal viral risk

A new study identifies specific bat species carrying viruses with high epidemic potential. The research highlights that not all bats carry the same level of viral risk, and conservation efforts can help mitigate this risk by protecting habitats. Understanding which bat groups harbor deadly viruses can aid in developing therapeutics.

Livestock health: challenges, research and solutions

INRAE's work prioritizes agroecological practices to ensure animal health and sustainability in livestock farming. The PREZODE initiative aims to prevent future pandemics by bringing together over 170 partners, while research focuses on developing new tools for early disease diagnosis and prevention strategies.

Super-resistant bacteria found in wild birds at a rehabilitation center on the coast of São Paulo state, Brazil

Antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli clones were found in two colonized birds, a vulture and an owl, at the Santos Municipal Orchid Garden rehabilitation center. The presence of these strains in animals raises concerns about potential impact on wildlife health.

Koala stress linked to disease threat

Researchers have found a clear relationship between koala stress and increased risk of disease, including Chlamydia. The study suggests that high KoRV loads may be weakening the immune system, making koalas more susceptible to diseases such as blindness and infertility.

Scientists use climate data to map, predict amphibian chytrid disease

Researchers created a high-resolution map of Panama showing the movement and intensity of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a deadly fungal disease. The data reveals that higher elevations are more hospitable to the fungus, but rainy seasons bring outbreaks in lowlands.

A new network could help predict health problems in your pup

A study of over 26,000 dogs reveals which diseases tend to co-occur and provide insights into canine healthcare. The network analysis suggests new connections between diseases, such as low iron and protein in the urine, and helps guide veterinary practice.

Researchers discover cause of sea star wasting disease

Researchers discover Vibrio pectenicida as the causative agent behind sea star wasting disease, a devastating epidemic that has killed billions of sunflower sea stars. The discovery is crucial for recovering these species and their kelp forest ecosystems, which provide habitat for thousands of marine creatures and contribute millions t...

Obesity shapes COVID-19’s long-term damage

A study found that SARS-CoV-2 infection caused different long-term consequences in lean and obese macaques, with obesity increasing risks like persistent lung damage. Lean animals also experienced signs of metabolic disruption, suggesting long COVID may be more common than reported.

Co-infections in young bats could underpin coronavirus emergence

A comprehensive study of over 2,500 bat faecal samples reveals that young bats are frequently infected with multiple coronaviruses. This finding could inform the prediction of emerging riskier coronaviruses and highlights the importance of understanding coronavirus evolution in their natural host.

Epidemiology: Key predictors of avian flu outbreaks in Europe identified

A machine learning model trained on European HPAI outbreak data found key predictors of avian flu outbreaks, including minimum autumn temperature and presence of mute swans. These findings could help improve future monitoring programs and reduce the risk of human infection.

What cats may teach us about Long COVID

Scientists found that mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) therapy improved immune recovery in cats with FIP, a disease similar to Long COVID. The study showed reduced systemic inflammation and increased regulatory T cells, suggesting potential benefits for human patients.

Dangerous variant of salmonella still not eradicated – researchers point to the solutions

A new study finds that Salmonella Dublin causes increased calf mortality, lower milk yield, and higher medication costs in dairy farms. The disease leads to hidden financial losses due to gradual infection without visible symptoms.

Urban rats spread deadly bacteria as they migrate, study finds

Researchers discovered how urban rat migration spreads leptospirosis, a deadly disease, and developed a novel technique for testing rat kidneys. The study used advanced molecular techniques to analyze DNA from 328 rat kidney samples collected from 17 sites in Boston, finding that 59 rats were positive for Leptospira bacteria.

How math helps to protect crops from invasive disease

Researchers develop mathematical modeling to predict aflatoxin outbreaks in Texas using remote sensing satellites and soil properties. The model has the potential to save farmers billions of dollars in losses by providing early risk prediction and targeted prevention strategies.

CDC taps Texas A&M School of Public Health to assess avian flu among dairy farm workers

The CDC has awarded a $3 million grant to the Texas A&M School of Public Health to investigate avian flu among dairy farm workers in Texas. The team, led by Dr. David Douphrate, aims to identify the scope of exposure and workplace factors involved in transmission.

Veterinary: UK dog owners prefer crossbreeds and imports to domestic pedigree breeds

A study found that UK dog populations decreased by 0.9% annually from 1990 to 2021, with a rise in crossbreed and imported dogs. The research highlights concerns about inherited diseases due to limited genetic diversity in pedigree breeds.

Threatened sea stars are finding refuge in bc fjords

A new study suggests that sunflower sea stars are surviving disease outbreaks in British Columbia's Central Coast fjords due to the unique oceanographic conditions. The fjords' mix of cold water and freshwater runoff provides a refuge for the species, allowing them to venture deeper and escape the effects of sea star wasting disease.

New approach could treat anthrax beyond the “point of no return”

Researchers at University of Pittsburgh developed a new treatment approach for anthrax by reactivating the ERK pathway with a combination of growth factors. This method shows promise for treating the disease beyond its typical point of no return, offering hope for patients diagnosed late in the illness.

Park entrances may be hotspots for infective dog roundworm eggs

New study finds park entrances in Dublin, Ireland, to be heavily contaminated with infective Toxocara canis eggs, posing a risk of zoonotic infection. The researchers call for increased measures to prevent dog feces disposal at these locations.

Revolutionizing cassava breeding: CRISPR-Cas9 unlocks potential for disease resistance and enhanced yield

A new study using CRISPR-Cas9 technology enhances cassava's resistance to diseases and improves drought tolerance. Genome-edited cassava plants show increased starch content, benefiting food security and industrial applications.

Potential treatment for chronic kidney disease in dogs revealed

A new study suggests that paricalcitol may help manage chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs by reducing renal secondary hyperparathyroidism and proteinuria. The treatment showed promise in stabilizing proteinuria, but raised questions about potential long-term effects on CKD progression.

Social networks may help combat global spread of diseases - study

Researchers discovered that exposure to similar behaviors within a person's social network is the most significant factor predicting individual prevention behaviors. Household-level interventions targeting entire families could result in more effective prevention strategies.

UMass Amherst Ph.D. student wins grant from European Microbiology Society for Lyme Disease Research

A UMass Amherst Ph.D. student has been awarded a €20,000 grant to investigate a new therapeutic target for Lyme disease by targeting the GuaB enzyme necessary for Borrelia burgdorferi replication in mammals.

Texas A&M researchers identify early signs of GI disease risk in dogs

Researchers at the Texas A&M Gastrointestinal Laboratory discovered biomarkers that can predict gastrointestinal disease risk in dogs. The study found multiple signs of high-risk disease, including inflammation and leaky guts, which can contribute to the development of GI disease if left unchecked.

Med-X | Optical imaging unveiling metabolic dynamics in cells and organisms during aging and diseases

Researchers have developed a powerful imaging technology to study cellular metabolism, enabling the visualization of biomolecules' synthesis and turnover in live cells and organisms. Heavy-water probing allows for the tracking of metabolic dynamics, providing insights into aging and age-related diseases.

Future innovators take over UTA at science fair

The University of Texas at Arlington hosted the 74th Fort Worth Regional Science and Engineering Fair, attracting more students than ever. The fair featured original research projects on various topics, including using earthworms to remove toxic lead from soil and creating a robotic glove for people with Parkinson's disease.

Unlocking the power of DNA exonucleases and endonucleases in immunity

DNA exonucleases and endonucleases play a critical role in immune response and disease management, regulating genome integrity and immune signaling. Therapeutic interventions targeting these enzymes offer promising avenues for treating immune disorders and cancer.

MLST evidence of two different sequence types of listeria monocytogenes strains used for commercial veterinary listeriosis vaccines

Researchers investigated two commercial veterinary listeriosis vaccine strains, revealing they belong to different phylogenetic lineages. The attenuated strains demonstrated distinct morphological characteristics when grown on bacterial media. These findings highlight the genetic diversity of Listeria monocytogenes used in vaccines.

Genomic tools provide clearer view of health for endangered bats

Researchers used advanced molecular tools to survey health status of endangered Indiana bats, identifying microbiome changes resulting from parasitic infections. The analysis revealed that bats with high loads of a protozoan parasite had a corresponding proliferation of certain bacteria.

In Denmark, rural cat owners are neutering their cats and allowing them indoor access

A Danish study found that rural cat owners are increasingly managing their cats similarly to urban owners, leading to fewer unwanted kittens. The change reflects a growing human attachment to owned cats and a diminishing divide between rural and urban life.

Plague transmission may have begun a century before the Black Death, study shows

Researchers have discovered evidence that plague may have been involved in epidemics a century before the Black Death, challenging previous assumptions about the disease's arrival in Western Eurasia. The study uses historical sources and genetic analysis to propose a new timeline for the plague's emergence.

Killing H5N1 in waste milk — an alternative to pasteurization

Researchers at UC Davis found that acidifying milk to a pH of 4.1-4.2 with citric acid effectively deactivates the H5N1 virus, providing a cost-effective solution for dairy farms. The process takes only six hours and doesn't require refrigeration, increasing safety and reducing costs.

Cold temperatures promote spread of a bird pink eye pathogen at winter feeders

A recent study found that cold temperatures allow the bird pink eye pathogen to survive on bird feeders for up to seven days, causing more severe disease in birds compared to warmer temperatures. Regular cleaning of feeder surfaces with bleach can help mitigate the spread of the disease.

Improved treatment timing reduces honey bee losses to Varroa mites

Researchers found that more than a third of beekeepers deviate from recommended treatment guidelines, leading to exacerbated colony losses. Adhering to specific timeframes for treatments can significantly reduce honey bee mortality caused by the parasitic Varroa mite.

Researchers successfully deliver mRNA-based drugs to the intestine – without passing through the liver

Scientists at Tel Aviv University successfully transport mRNA-based drugs to the immune system of small and large intestines without passing through the liver. The breakthrough could enable treatments for inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's and colitis.

UQ team finds relative of deadly Hendra virus in the US

Researchers at the University of Queensland have identified a new henipavirus, Camp Hill virus, in shrews in Alabama, USA. The discovery suggests these viruses may be more globally distributed than previously thought, with implications for human health and vaccine development.

Renal transporter genes and uremic toxins in aging cats with chronic kidney disease

Aging cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have lower levels of key kidney transporter genes, leading to impaired waste removal. Monitoring these transporters and toxin buildup may help detect CKD early and improve treatment options.

The deadly pathogen that decimated sea urchins in Eilat has now spread to the Indian Ocean

A deadly ciliate parasite has decimated sea urchin populations in the Caribbean, Red Sea, and Indian Ocean, with mortality rates reaching over 90%. The International team of researchers is working to track the disease and preserve sea urchins, which play a crucial role in maintaining coral reef health.

Guidance on animal-borne infections in the Canadian Arctic

The review highlights seven zoonotic infections in people, including those transmitted through traditional diets and hunting practices. Climate change is affecting the local ecosystem, altering animal behavior and parasite life cycles, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

In the Northeast, 50% of adult ticks carry Lyme disease carrying bacteria

A new Dartmouth study reveals that 50% of adult blacklegged ticks in the Northeast carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. The study found small changes in tick abundance but a significant increase in pathogen prevalence over 30 years, highlighting the need for continued prevention measures.

Self-destructing vaccine offers enhanced protection against tuberculosis in monkeys

A new self-destructing vaccine provides improved safety and protection against TB in macaque monkeys, outperforming the standard BCG vaccine. The 'kill switch' mechanism eliminates the risk of accidental infection, offering a safer vaccination option for immunocompromised individuals.

Update: T cells may offer some protection in an H5N1 ‘spillover’ scenario

A new study by La Jolla Institute for Immunology researchers suggests that many people may already have immune cells on standby to combat the H5N1 virus. The study found similarities between H5N1 and seasonal influenza viruses, allowing scientists to predict cross-reactive T cell responses that could help decrease disease severity.

NIH officials assess threat of H5N1

The NIH and its partners remain focused on monitoring the H5N1 virus, which has caused sporadic infections among wild birds and poultry farms. Researchers highlight four keys to controlling the current outbreak: timely collaborations, disease surveillance, medical countermeasures, and precautions to prevent exposure.

Study assesses virulence of Cryptococcus strains, laying groundwork for improved treatment

A six-year study examining 38 clinical isolates of Cryptococcus found genes and gene alleles associated with disease severity. The research aims to develop new treatments targeting these genetic variations, predicting disease outcomes and improving patient care.

TTUHSC researcher to study protein regulation in Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers investigate how perturbed gene expression contributes to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. Alternative polyadenylation, a mechanism regulating protein production, is being studied for its potential role in the disease.

Leptospirosis in China: Current status, insights, and future prospects

In China, leptospirosis continues to be a significant public health concern despite reduced prevalence. The article highlights the importance of raising awareness among stakeholders to prevent and control the continuous transmission of leptospirosis.

Controlling infectious disease between wildlife and livestock on shared rangeland

A research initiative by Sapna Dass aims to identify pathogens, monitor transmission pathways, and implement rapid responses to address potential danger from unidentified pathogens. The project employs SARS-CoV-2 as a model virus to study spillover events from wildlife to livestock.

Protecting the health of wildlife ecosystems

A recent study published in Nature found that mother fleas can transmit the plague to their offspring, posing a significant threat to prairie dog colonies and other rodent populations. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding the role of animals in the dissemination of the disease.

UCalgary scientists help solve a problem in the developing world

A team of UCalgary researchers, led by Dr. Anthony Schryvers, has developed a new vaccine to protect cattle from hemorrhagic septicemia, a deadly bacterial disease that destroys livestock and livelihoods. The vaccine is designed with a long-lasting immune response and has been patented.

Breakthrough in scalable production of high-quality organoids

Researchers developed a platform to produce mature, uniform organoids using a three-dimensional engineered membrane. This breakthrough enables consistent quality and improved efficiency for practical applications in clinical trials and drug development.

Scientists develop breakthrough culture system to unlock secrets of skin microbiome

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed a novel co-culture system that facilitates cultivating multiple indigenous skin bacteria in a balanced state. This breakthrough allows for detailed analysis of the biology of indigenous skin bacteria, which can lead to new treatments for skin diseases and improved quality of life.

New research could pave way for vaccine against deadly wildlife disease

Researchers aim to develop vaccines that can prevent the spread of Brucella abortus, a highly contagious and antibiotic-resistant disease affecting livestock and humans. The study focuses on understanding the genes and pathways used by the bacteria during infection, with the ultimate goal of creating effective vaccines for wildlife.

Patients taking edoxoban after heart valve surgery had lower risk of stroke, blood clots

Research highlights edoxaban's effectiveness in reducing stroke and blood clots for patients after bioprosthetic heart valve replacement. Edoxaban was found to be equally or more effective than warfarin, with a predictable pharmacokinetic profile and reduced burden on patients.

New insight into brain stability: the key role of NMDA receptors

Researchers discovered that NMDA receptors set the baseline level for neural network activity, helping maintain stable brain function. The study's findings suggest potential innovative treatments for diseases linked to disrupted neural stability.