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Scientists develop PRRS-resistant pigs
Scientists have long tried to understand how PRRS infects pigs.

Exclusive deal signed with global leader in animal genetics

Pigs that are resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) have been developed by researchers in the United States.

Scientists have long tried to understand how PRRS infects pigs. Until recently, researchers believed the virus entered pigs by being inhaled into the lungs, where it attached to a protein called sialoadhesin.

But two years ago, a team from the University of Missouri found that the elimination of sialoadhesin had no effect on a pig’s likelihood of developing PRRS. A second protein, known as CD163, was thought to “uncoat” the virus and allow it to infect pigs.

In this latest study, published in Nature Biotechnology, researchers set out to see if they could prevent pigs from producing CD163.

The team genetically engineered the gene that makes CD163 so the pigs could no longer produce it. Next, they infected the pigs and found that those without CD163 never got sick, nor did they show any other changes in their development. 

Study co-author Kristin Whitworth said that the discovery “could have enormous implications for pig producers and the food industry throughout the world.”

In light of their results, the University of Missouri has signed an exclusive global licensing deal for the potential future commercialisation of the virus-resistant pigs with Genus, plc - a global leader in animal genetics.

The University said in a press release that, if the development stage is a success, the commercial partner will seek the necessary approvals and registration from governments before a wider market release.

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Vets to run marathon for World Animal Protection

News Story 1
 Two recently graduated veterinary surgeons will be running the London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity World Animal Protection.

Alex Bartlett and Maeve O'Neill plan to run the race together if they are given the same start times.

Dr O'Neill said: "You're always limited in what you can do to help animals, so it is nice to raise money for a charity that helps animals around the world."

Dr Bartlett added: "I have never run a marathon before and am excited to run my first one for such a good cause!"

Both Dr Bartlett and Dr O'Neill have fundraising pages online. 

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News Shorts
BSAVA releases new Guide to Procedures

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has published a new edition of its Guide to Procedures for Small Animal Practice.

It has added four new procedures; cystostomy tube placement, endotracheal intubation, point-of-care ultrasound and wet-to-dry dressings.

BSAVA says that it is an essential step-by-step guide to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed in practice. The textbook includes new images and illustrations, as well as high-definition videos for use prior to procedures.

Nick Bexfield and Julia Riggs, editors of the new edition, said: "We have built upon the success of the previous editions by responding to the feedback received from the BSAVA readership, and hope this new guide helps to further increase the confidence and accuracy with which these procedures are performed."

Print copies are available in the BSAVA store, with a digital version in the BSAVA library.