Livestock antibody research enters second stage
The Livestock Antibody Hub is investigating infection responses in cattle, pigs and poultry.
Researchers are set to launch the second phase of a scientific collaboration, which will see them focus on livestock antibodies to develop new vaccines and diagnostics.
A renewed five-year funding award, invested from the Gates Foundation, will mean researchers from The Pirbright Institute and the Roslin Institute can continue their work.
The scientists are working for the Livestock Antibody Hub, as it aims to understand antibody responses to infection in cattle, pigs and poultry. Established in 2019, it seeks to improve knowledge of protective immunity in species.
These findings may also inform models for a range of human infectious diseases.
This latest funding award will mean the Hub continues to benefit from researchers and vaccine developers with specialist expertise. It also keeps it equipped with the tools and technologies needed to accelerate innovation and improve livestock health worldwide.
In the next stage of this project, researchers will explore informed vaccine design and consider new approaches to disease prevention and treatment. Researchers will investigate how this can improve health and welfare, strengthen food security and support resilient farming systems.
The programme will also work to benefit smallholder farmers, who depend on healthy livestock for their livelihoods.
At a presentation at the Roslin Institute, introducing the next phase of the project, scientists showcased the research conducted so far, which included structural vaccinology and improving mucosal vaccine responses. Discussions also addressed project delivery, collaboration and priorities for the next phase.
Prof John Hammond, director at Roslin Institute, introduced the objectives for the next phase (Hub 2.0) and reflected on the achievements so far.
Prof Hammond said: “The Hub will continue to act as a source of trusted expertise and capabilities for the study of antibodies in a range of livestock species.
“As such, existing and new projects will continue to be supported across the UK and around the world, aiming to develop and improve vaccines and diagnostics to a range of critical diseases.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
