| 1. |
- Anderson, Jenna
(author)
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Development and evaluation of a subunit DIVA vaccine against bluetongue virus serotype 8 in cattle
- 2014
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Bluetongue virus (BTV) causes the primarily vector-borne bluetongue disease of ruminants, which poses a permanent threat to Europe since new serotypes and strains are frequently introduced. Vaccination of cattle is essential to control BTV outbreaks. Commercial attenuated and inactivated vaccines are efficacious in reducing BTV spread and disease, but do not fulfil all safety, adaptability, or production requirements. Additionally, no current vaccines allow the differentiation of infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA). DIVA vaccines enable surveillance of BTV epidemiology and vaccine efficacy, and facilitate a quick return for countries to a BTV-free status. This thesis presents the development and evaluation of a novel subunit DIVA vaccine against BTV serotype 8 (BTV-8) in cattle. Five His-tagged recombinant BTV proteins (VP2, VP5 of BTV-8; NS1, NS2, NS3 of BTV-2) were produced in baculovirus or E. coli expression systems. Purification protocols were optimized for all but VP5. Based on the feasibility of protein production and the capability of the remaining four proteins to induce humoral or cellular immune responses in mice, VP2, NS1, and NS2 were selected to formulate an experimental vaccine combined to an ISCOM-matrix adjuvant (SubV). Next, cattle were immunized twice at a three-week interval with SubV, a commercial inactivated vaccine, or a placebo. SubV induced humoral immune responses, including virus-neutralizing antibodies, against all three proteins, as well as a cellular immune response directed against NS1. These responses were of similar type and comparable magnitude between both vaccines, suggesting that SubV might provide protection that is at least as effective as the commercial vaccine. Finally, the protective efficacy of SubV was evaluated and complete virological and clinical protection against virulent BTV-8 challenge was observed following vaccination in calves. This was likely due to the induction of virus-neutralizing antibodies directed against VP2 of BTV-8 and cross-serotype T cell responses directed against NS1 and NS2 of BTV-2. Furthermore, SubV was shown to be DIVA-compliant based on the detection of antibodies directed against VP7, by using commercially-available diagnostic assays. This novel BTV subunit vaccine is a promising candidate and should be further developed.
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| 2. |
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| 3. |
- Wiszmeg, Andréa, et al.
(author)
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Transforming trash to treasure Cultural ambiguity in foetal cell research
- 2021
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In: Philosophy Ethics and Humanities in Medicine. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1747-5341. ; 16:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Rich in different kind of potent cells, embryos are used in modern regenerative medicine and research. Neurobiologists today are pushing the boundaries for what can be done with embryos existing in the transitory margins of medicine. Therefore, there is a growing need to develop conceptual frameworks for interpreting the transformative cultural, biological and technical processes involving these aborted, donated and marginal embryos. This article is a contribution to this development of frameworks. Methods This article examines different emotional, cognitive and discursive strategies used by neurobiologists in a foetal cell transplantation trial in Parkinson's disease research, using cells harvested from aborted embryos. Two interviews were analysed in the light of former observations in the processing laboratories, using the anthropologist Mary Douglas's concept of pollution behaviour and the linguist, philosopher, psychoanalyst and feminist Julia Kristeva's concept of the abjective to explain and make sense of the findings. Results The findings indicate that the labour performed by the researchers in the trial work involves transforming the foetal material practically, as well as culturally, from trash to treasure. The transformation process contains different phases, and in the interview material we observed that the foetal material or cells were considered objects, subjects or rejected as abject by the researchers handling them, depending on what phase of process or practice they referred to or had experience of. As demonstrated in the analysis, it is the human origin of the cell that makes it abjective and activates pollution discourse, when the researchers talk of their practice. Conclusions The marginal and ambiguous status of the embryo that emerges in the accounts turns the scientists handling foetal cells into liminal characters in modern medicine. Focusing on how practical as well as emotional and cultural strategies and rationalizations of the researchers emerge in interview accounts, this study adds insights on the rationale of practically procuring, transforming and utilizing the foetal material to the already existing studies focused on the donations. We also discuss why the use and refinement of a tissue, around which there is practical consensus but cultural ambiguity, deserves further investigation.
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| 4. |
- Hallberg, Ida, et al.
(author)
-
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) alters lipid accumulation in bovine blastocysts after oocyte exposure during in vitro maturation
- 2019
-
In: Reproductive Toxicology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0890-6238 .- 1873-1708. ; 84, s. 1-8
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) is one of the perfluoroalkyl acids present in human tissues. In this study, effects on early embryo development after PFNA exposure were investigated using the bovine in vitro production system. Oocytes were exposed to PFNA during maturation in vitro (10 μg mL-1 and 0.1 μg mL-1), and then fertilized and cultured in parallel with control groups. Developmental parameters (cleavage, blastocyst formation) were followed and embryo quality evaluated (stage, grade). Embryos developed after exposure to 0.1 μg mL-1 were stained to distinguish nuclei, active mitochondria and neutral lipids. 10 μg mL-1 of PFNA had a severe negative effect on blastocyst formation (OR: 0.27 p < 0.05), an effect not observed at 0.1 μg mL-1. However, lipid droplet distribution was significantly altered in embryos exposed to 0.1 μg mL-1, suggesting a disturbance of lipid metabolism after exposure to sublethal levels of PFNA during oocyte maturation in vitro.
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| 5. |
- Jacobsen, M, et al.
(author)
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Refined candidate region specified by haplotype sharing for Escherichia coli F4ab/F4ac susceptibility alleles in pigs
- 2010
-
In: Animal Genetics. - : Wiley. - 0268-9146 .- 1365-2052. ; 41:1, s. 21-25
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Infection of the small intestine by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F4ab/ac is a major welfare problem and financial burden for the pig industry. Natural resistance to this infection is inherited as a Mendelian recessive trait, and a polymorphism in the MUC4 gene segregating for susceptibility/resistance is presently used in a selection programme by the Danish pig breeding industry. To elucidate the genetic background involved in E. coli F4ab/ac susceptibility in pigs, a detailed haplotype map of the porcine candidate region was established. This region covers approximately 3.7 Mb. The material used for the study is a three generation family, where the founders are two Wild boars and eight Large White sows. All pigs have been phenotyped for susceptibility to F4ab/ac using an adhesion assay. Their haplotypes are known from segregation analysis using flanking markers. By a targeted approach, the candidate region was subjected to screening for polymorphisms, mainly focusing on intronic sequences. A total of 18 genes were partially sequenced, and polymorphisms were identified in GP5, CENTB2, APOD, PCYT1A, OSTalpha, ZDHHC19, TFRC, ACK1, MUC4, MUC20, KIAA0226, LRCH3 and MUC13. Overall, 227 polymorphisms were discovered in the founder generation. The analysis revealed a large haplotype block, spanning at least 1.5 Mb around MUC4, to be associated with F4ab/ac susceptibility.
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| 6. |
- Palsdottir, Vilborg, 1979, et al.
(author)
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Postnatal deficiency of essential fatty acids in mice results in resistance to diet-induced obesity and low plasma insulin during adulthood
- 2011
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In: Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids. - : Elsevier BV. - 1532-2823 .- 0952-3278. ; 84:3-4, s. 85-92
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Our objective was to investigate the long-term metabolic effects of postnatal essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD). Mouse dams were fed an EFAD diet or an isoenergetic control diet 4 days before delivery and throughout lactation. The pups were weaned to standard diet (STD) and were later subdivided into two groups: receiving high fat diet (HFD) or STD. Body composition, energy expenditure, food intake and leptin levels were analyzed in adult offspring. Blood glucose and plasma insulin concentrations were measured before and during a glucose tolerance test. EFAD offspring fed STD were leaner with lower plasma leptin and insulin concentrations compared to controls. EFAD offspring fed HFD were resistant to diet-induced obesity, had higher energy expenditure and lower levels of plasma leptin and insulin compared to controls. These results indicate that the fatty acid composition during lactation is important for body composition and glucose tolerance in the adult offspring.
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| 7. |
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| 8. |
- Karlsson, Frida
(author)
-
Treponema spp. in porcine skin ulcers : clinical aspects
- 2014
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- The hypothesis tested in this work is that bacteria of genus Treponema play a main role when shoulder ulcers and ear necrosis occur in an infectious or severe form, and perhaps also in other skin conditions in the pig. Samples were collected from pigs in 19 Swedish herds 2010-2011. The sampled skin lesions included 52 shoulder ulcers, 57 ear necroses, 4 facial necroses and 5 other skin ulcers. Occurrence of spirochetes was detected by phase contrast microscopy, Warthin-Starry silver staining, PCR and Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH). Treponemal diversity was investigated by sequencing of 16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer region 2 (ISR2) and high-throughput sequencing (HTS) of a part of the 16S rRNA gene. Culturing and characterization of treponemes by biochemical analyses, testing of antimicrobial susceptibility and fingerprinting by random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) were carried out. A challenge study was performed to test if Treponema pedis induced skin lesions. Serological response towards TPE0673, a T. pedis protein, was tested with ELISA. Spirochetes were found in all types of skin ulcers and in all herds. The occurrence of Treponema spp. detected by PCR was 52% in shoulder ulcers, 46% in ear necrosis and 9.7% in gingiva. Treponemes were identified in 69% of the shoulder ulcers and in 59% of the ear necroses by FISH. A phylogenetic tree revealed a great variability of treponemes. Three main phylotypes were identified; T. pedis, Treponema parvum and one phylotype without designation. Twelve isolates of T. pedis, T. parvum, and one phylotype most similar to Treponema sp. OMZ 840 were obtained. All except two had unique RAPD fingerprints. Biochemical tests could not differentiate between the isolates and they were generally susceptible to tested antimicrobials. By FISH, treponemes were visualized deep in the ulcers and a predominance of T. pedis was noted, and confirmed by HTS. Challenged pigs did not develop any lesions or IgG response towards the T. pedis protein. Most sows with shoulder ulcers showed a strong, and most cases of ear necrosis a weak IgG response towards TPE0673. In conclusion, Treponema spp. are frequently abundant in ear necroses and shoulder ulcers in pigs. Identical phylotypes and ISR2 sequences from ulcers and gingiva indicate spreading from mouth to ulcer. A broad diversity of phylotypes was revealed, but the predominance of T. pedis suggests specific importance of this species. Our results point towards an important role of treponemes in chronic and severe skin ulcers in pigs.
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| 9. |
- Blomström, Anne-Lie
(author)
-
Non-Structural Proteins of Arthropod-Borne Bunyaviruses: Roles and Functions
- 2013
-
In: Viruses. - : MDPI AG. - 1999-4915. ; 5, s. 2447-2468
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Viruses within the Bunyaviridae family are tri-segmented, negative-stranded RNA viruses. The family includes several emerging and re-emerging viruses of humans, animals and plants, such as Rift Valley fever virus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, La Crosse virus, Schmallenberg virus and tomato spotted wilt virus. Many bunyaviruses are arthropod-borne, so-called arboviruses. Depending on the genus, bunyaviruses encode, in addition to the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and the different structural proteins, one or several non-structural proteins. These non-structural proteins are not always essential for virus growth and replication but can play an important role in viral pathogenesis through their interaction with the host innate immune system. In this review, we will summarize current knowledge and understanding of insect-borne bunyavirus non-structural protein function(s) in vertebrate, plant and arthropod.
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| 10. |
- Gillman, Anna, et al.
(author)
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Oseltamivir-Resistant Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Strain with an H274Y Mutation in Neuraminidase Persists without Drug Pressure in Infected Mallards
- 2015
-
In: Applied and Environmental Microbiology. - : American Society for Microbiology. - 0099-2240 .- 1098-5336. ; 81:7, s. 2378-2383
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Influenza A virus (IAV) has its natural reservoir in wild waterfowl, and emerging human IAVs often contain gene segments from avian viruses. The active drug metabolite of oseltamivir (oseltamivir carboxylate [OC]), stockpiled as Tamiflu for influenza pandemic preparedness, is not removed by conventional sewage treatment and has been detected in river water. There, it may exert evolutionary pressure on avian IAV in waterfowl, resulting in the development of resistant viral variants. A resistant avian IAV can circulate among wild birds only if resistance does not restrict viral fitness and if the resistant virus can persist without continuous drug pressure. In this in vivo mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) study, we tested whether an OC-resistant avian IAV (H1N1) strain with an H274Y mutation in the neuraminidase (NA-H274Y) could retain resistance while drug pressure was gradually removed. Successively infected mallards were exposed to decreasing levels of OC, and fecal samples were analyzed for the neuraminidase sequence and phenotypic resistance. No reversion to wild-type virus was observed during the experiment, which included 17 days of viral transmission among 10 ducks exposed to OC concentrations below resistance induction levels. We conclude that resistance in avian IAV that is induced by exposure of the natural host to OC can persist in the absence of the drug. Thus, there is a risk that human-pathogenic IAVs that evolve from IAVs circulating among wild birds may contain resistance mutations. An oseltamivir-resistant pandemic IAV would pose a substantial public health threat. Therefore, our observations underscore the need for prudent oseltamivir use, upgraded sewage treatment, and surveillance for resistant IAVs in wild birds.
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| 11. |
- Gunnarsson, Ulrika, et al.
(author)
-
The Dark brown plumage color in chickens is caused by an 8.3 kb deletion upstream of SOX10.
- 2011
-
In: Pigment cell & melanoma research. - 1755-148X .- 1755-1471.
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The Dark brown mutation in chickens reduces expression of black eumelanin and enhances expression of red pheomelanin but only in certain parts of the plumage. Here we present genetic evidence that an 8.3 kb deletion upstream of the SOX10 transcription start site is the causal mutation underlying the Dark brown phenotype. The SOX10 transcription factor has a well-established role in melanocyte biology and is essential for melanocyte migration and survival. Previous studies have demonstrated that the mouse homolog of a highly conserved element within the deleted region is a SOX10 enhancer. The mechanism of action of this mutation remains to be established but one possible scenario is that the deletion leads to reduced SOX10 expression which in turn down-regulates expression of key enzymes in pigment synthesis such as tyrosinase. Lower tyrosinase activity leads to a shift towards a more pheomelanistic (reddish) plumage color, which is the characteristic feature of the Dark brown phenotype.
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| 12. |
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| 13. |
- Östensson, Karin
(author)
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Från manligt till kvinnligt
- 2010
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In: Veterinär - yrke i förvandling. - 9789163374425 ; , s. 83-110
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Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 14. |
- Östensson, Karin
(author)
-
Sveriges Veterinärförbund 150 år
- 2010
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In: Veterinär - yrke i förvandling. - 9789163374425 ; , s. 8-67
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Book chapter (pop. science, debate, etc.)
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| 15. |
- Younis, Shady, et al.
(author)
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Multiple nuclear-replicating viruses require the stress-induced protein ZC3H11A for efficient growth
- 2018
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In: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. - Washington, United States : Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. - 0027-8424 .- 1091-6490. ; 115:16, s. E3808-E3816
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The zinc finger CCCH-type containing 11A (ZC3H11A) gene encodes a well-conserved zinc finger protein that may function in mRNA export as it has been shown to associate with the transcription export (TREX) complex in proteomic screens. Here, we report that ZC3H11A is a stress-induced nuclear protein with RNA-binding capacity that localizes to nuclear splicing speckles. During an adenovirus infection, the ZC3H11A protein and splicing factor SRSF2 relocalize to nuclear regions where viral DNA replication and transcription take place. Knockout (KO) of ZC3H11A in HeLa cells demonstrated that several nuclear-replicating viruses are dependent on ZC3H11A for efficient growth (HIV, influenza virus, herpes simplex virus, and adenovirus), whereas cytoplasmic replicating viruses are not (vaccinia virus and Semliki Forest virus). High-throughput sequencing of ZC3H11A-cross-linked RNA showed that ZC3H11A binds to short purine-rich ribonucleotide stretches in cellular and adenoviral transcripts. We show that the RNA-binding property of ZC3H11A is crucial for its function and localization. In ZC3H11A KO cells, the adenovirus fiber mRNA accumulates in the cell nucleus. Our results suggest that ZC3H11A is important for maintaining nuclear export of mRNAs during stress and that several nuclear-replicating viruses take advantage of this mechanism to facilitate their replication.
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| 16. |
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| 17. |
- Kreisel, Katrin, 1991, et al.
(author)
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DNA polymerase η contributes to genome-wide lagging strand synthesis.
- 2019
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In: Nucleic acids research. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1362-4962 .- 0305-1048. ; 47:5, s. 2425-2435
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- DNA polymerase η (pol η) is best known for its ability to bypass UV-induced thymine-thymine (T-T) dimers and other bulky DNA lesions, but pol ηalso has other cellular roles. Here, we present evidence that pol η competes with DNA polymerases α and δfor the synthesis of the lagging strand genome-wide, where it also shows a preference for T-T in the DNA template. Moreover, we found that the C-terminus of pol η,which contains a PCNA-Interacting Protein motif is required for pol ηto function in lagging strand synthesis. Finally, we provide evidence that a pol η dependent signature is also found to be lagging strand specific in patients with skin cancer. Taken together, these findings provide insight into the physiological role of DNA synthesis by pol η and have implications for our understanding of how our genome is replicated to avoid mutagenesis, genome instability and cancer.
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| 18. |
- Dencker, Lennart, et al.
(author)
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Position Paper : EUFEPS Network on Veterinary Medicines Initiative: An interdisciplinary forum to support Veterinary Pharmacology and promote the development of new pharmaceuticals for Animal Health
- 2016
-
In: European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. - 0928-0987 .- 1879-0720. ; 91, s. I-VII
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Veterinary medicines account for a substantial portion of the production, sale, and consumption of medicines in Europe, and probably world-wide. This calls our attention to the fact that only healthy farm animals can ensure safe and sufficient livestock products to meet the growing demand for animal protein. Human and veterinary medicine share many common features - expressed and symbolised by the "One Health Concept". This concept forms the logical basis for the maintenance of healthy livestock by the control of zoonoses and foodborne diseases, the prevention of poor sanitary conditions, and the reduction of microbial and parasitic threats, including resistance to antibiotics and anti-parasitic drugs. Achieving these aims will require international cooperation and interdisciplinary action. A new initiative of the European Federation for Pharmaceutical Sciences (EUFEPS) - the Network on Veterinary Medicines - has the potential to manage and overcome these challenges. A number of EUFEPS expertise networks have already been established, and some will be instrumental in supporting the activities of the Network on Veterinary Medicines, e.g., the European Network on PharmacoGenomics Research and Implementation (EPRIN), as well as the Network on Bioavailability and Biopharmaceutics, and the envisioned Network on Systems Pharmacology. Notably, the EUFEPS Networks on Safety Sciences, on Environment and Pharmaceuticals and on NanoMedicine as well as on Regulatory Science, represent promising partners. New technologies are being introduced to veterinary medicine for the treatment of numerous and frequently species-specific conditions. Scientific input from different areas is required to evaluate the potential benefitrisk profiles of these novel products, drug delivery techniques, and medical attention for animals as a whole. Drug treatment of food-producing animals inevitably affects consumer safety and public health, as any administration of medicines to animals may result in the presence of drug residues in edible tissues or products such as milk, eggs, and honey. The many questions surrounding the risks to human health and to the environment posed by exposure to veterinary drug residues cause great concern among health authorities as well as the public. In particular, the shared use of many classes of antimicrobials in both veterinary and human medicine, the emergence and spread of resistant microbes from animals or animal-derived products to humans, and the presence of contaminated manure in the environment are all provoking deep concern throughout the world. The Network on Veterinary Medicines initiative sees itself as broadly positioned. Among its most important goals are contributing to legislative issues in veterinary medicine and to the development of new pharmaceuticals for animal health, including novel drug delivery systems. Efforts to support the academic teaching and training of veterinary professionals and formulators for veterinary drug delivery are also considered imperative objectives of the network. The pursuit of these tasks will depend on interdisciplinary cooperation among experts from pharmaceutical and veterinary sciences, concentrating on issues where scientists from academia, industry and regulatory agencies can collaborate. National and international healthcare bodies, as well as organisations dedicated to the endorsement of teaching and training of scientists in pharmaceutical and veterinary sciences, are also key partners. Major objectives of the network include the following: strengthening academic research to promote the emergence of new concepts, principles and mechanisms of action to develop innovative new veterinary medicinal products, supporting the education and training of future healthcare professionals in veterinary practice, pharmacy and industrial research, including continuing professional development, and supporting Veterinary Universities. Further efforts of the Network will encourage the European Commission to initiate calls for research in the area of veterinary medicines, such as Horizon 2020. Once these calls are in place, the formation of strong consortia to apply for funding (IMI, EU-funding) is projected. The success of the Network depends on the engagement and expertise of cooperating specialists. It will benefit from the experience and means of other EUFEPS networks.
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| 19. |
- Hajkazemian, Melika, 1988-
(author)
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Decoding the language of transmission among vector-pathogen-host
- 2023
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Vector-borne diseases account for over 17 percent of all infectious diseases and lead to more than 700,000 mortalities annually. Importantly, there is a complex interaction between infectious organisms and their host. Vectors spread pathogens, which have a significant negative health effect on humans and animals and therefore detrimental economic and environmental impacts. Only 2% of the more than 3,600 mosquito species are blood feeders, primarily; the Anopheles, Culex, and Aedes which spread the Malaria parasite, Zika, Chikungunya, West Nile, and Dengue viruses. Therefore, understanding the complex chemical signaling and the molecular mechanisms that mediate pathogen and vector interaction, and allow the pathogen to survive and spread, are the subjects of this thesis.In project I, we determined the production and release of Anopheles male aggregation Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that initiate swarming, and enhance mating success. In addition, we compared the RNA-sequencing libraries of swarming to flag for chemosensory and circadian genes. The goal was to identify the molecular mechanisms of swarming and metabolite roles in mating success.In project II, we evaluated the phagostimulant effects of (E)-4-Hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl pyrophosphate (HMBPP) on an artificial feeding system for some important vectors (Anopheles coluzzii, An. arabiensis, An. gambiae s.s., Culex pipiens/Culex torrentium, and Aedes aegypti). We showed that our toxic plant-based solution can kill the five lethal vectors.In project III, we studied the alteration of An. gambiae behavior by the Plasmodium falciparum at infected (oocyst-carrying, 7 days post-infection) and infective (sporozoite-carrying, 14 days post-infection) stages. To discover whether antennal chemosensory genes expression changes at different stages of infection, we performed RNA-seq and examined the candidate olfactory genes’ abundance to provide a possible molecular mechanism for manipulating the parasite-carrying mosquitoes' behavior.Finally, in project IV, we presented the results of RNA-seq analysis that revealed the network connection between developmental genes and the physiological plasticity in male mosquitoes of An. funestus. We identified the transcripts that associated with the male An. funestus sexual maturation and mating success.In summary, this thesis focuses on understanding how vector-pathogen interaction manipulates the vector’s transcriptome, physiology, and behavior to enhance transmission success and thereby identify novel targets for vector-borne disease control.
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| 20. |
- Baranowska Körberg, Izabella, et al.
(author)
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A Simple Repeat Polymorphism in the MITF-M Promoter Is a Key Regulator of White Spotting in Dogs
- 2014
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In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 9:8, s. e104363-
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The white spotting locus (S) in dogs is colocalized with the MITF (microphtalmia-associated transcription factor) gene. The phenotypic effects of the four S alleles range from solid colour (S) to extreme white spotting (s(w)). We have investigated four candidate mutations associated with the s(w) allele, a SINE insertion, a SNP at a conserved site and a simple repeat polymorphism all associated with the MITF-M promoter as well as a 12 base pair deletion in exon 1B. The variants associated with white spotting at all four loci were also found among wolves and we conclude that none of these could be a sole causal mutation, at least not for extreme white spotting. We propose that the three canine white spotting alleles are not caused by three independent mutations but represent haplotype effects due to different combinations of causal polymorphisms. The simple repeat polymorphism showed extensive diversity both in dogs and wolves, and allele-sharing was common between wolves and white spotted dogs but was non-existent between solid and spotted dogs as well as between wolves and solid dogs. This finding was unexpected as Solid is assumed to be the wild-type allele. The data indicate that the simple repeat polymorphism has been a target for selection during dog domestication and breed formation. We also evaluated the significance of the three MITF-M associated polymorphisms with a Luciferase assay, and found conclusive evidence that the simple repeat polymorphism affects promoter activity. Three alleles associated with white spotting gave consistently lower promoter activity compared with the allele associated with solid colour. We propose that the simple repeat polymorphism affects cooperativity between transcription factors binding on either flanking sides of the repeat. Thus, both genetic and functional evidence show that the simple repeat polymorphism is a key regulator of white spotting in dogs.
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| 21. |
- Nilsson Sköld, Helen, 1970, et al.
(author)
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Telomerase deficiency in a colonial ascidian after prolonged asexual propagation
- 2011
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In: Journal of experimental zoology B (Mol Dev Evol). ; 314B
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ABSTRACT In organisms that propagate by agametic cloning, the parental body is the reproductive unit and fitness increases with clonal size, so that colonial metazoans, despite lack of experimental data, have been considered potentially immortal. Using asexual propagation rate as a measure of somatic performance, and telomerase activity and relative telomere length as molecular markers of senescence, old (7-12 yr) asexual strains of a colonial ascidian, Diplosoma listerianum, were compared with their recent sexually produced progeny. We report for the first time evidence for long-term molecular senescence in asexual lineages of a metazoan, and that only passage between sexual generations provides total rejuvenation permitting indefinite propagation and growth. Thus, this colonial ascidian has not fully escaped ageing. The possibility of somatic replicative senescence also potentially helps to explain why metazoans with the capacity for asexual propagation through gametic cloning commonly undergo cycles of sexual reproduction in the wild.
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| 22. |
- Kessler, Vadim
(author)
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Facile non-hydrolytic synthesis of highly water dispersible, surfactant free nanoparticles of synthetic MFe2O4 (M-Mn2+, Fe2+, Co2+, Ni2+) ferrite spinel by a modified Bradley reaction
- 2013
-
In: RSC Advances. - : Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). - 2046-2069. ; 3, s. 12230-12243
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- A series of the highly crystalline MFe2O4 ferrite spinel nanoparticles were synthesized via a modified Bradley reaction using microwave stimulation. Particle size was estimated using theoretical calculations from the X-ray data (Scherrer and Rietveld methods) as well as by direct experimental techniques such as TEM, DLS and NTA. The calculated average grain size for dry powders is in the range 10 to 23 nm. Hydrodynamic size was measured using DLS on non-modified, surfactant free particles of the whole MFe2O4 series. Raman spectra used for additional verification of the structure features of the produced spinel phases showed strong asymmetric behavior of the A(1g) mode, which was deconvoluted revealing additional components. Among all the products the lowest site inversion was found for the manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4). The oxidation of Fe3O4 leading to the formation of the Fe2O3 hematite phase induced by laser irradiation was observed. Magnetic characterization of the MFe2O4 family was carried out, showing that superparamagnetic blocking temperatures and calculated anisotropy constants K are in good agreement with the data for similar fine-particle systems.
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| 23. |
- Karlsson, Therese, 1979, et al.
(author)
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Identification of Single and Combined Serum Metabolites Associated with Food Intake
- 2022
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In: Metabolites. - : MDPI AG. - 2218-1989. ; 12:10
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Assessment of dietary intake is challenging. Traditional methods suffer from both random and systematic errors; thus objective measures are important complements in monitoring dietary exposure. The study presented here aims to identify serum metabolites associated with reported food intake and to explore whether combinations of metabolites may improve predictive models. Fasting blood samples and a 4-day weighed food diary were collected from healthy Swedish subjects (n = 119) self-defined as having habitual vegan, vegetarian, vegetarian + fish, or omnivore diets. Serum was analyzed for metabolites by 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Associations between single and combined metabolites and 39 foods and food groups were explored. Area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for prediction models. In total, 24 foods or food groups associated with serum metabolites using the criteria of rho > 0.2, p < 0.01 and AUC ≥ 0.7 were identified. For the consumption of soybeans, citrus fruits and marmalade, nuts and almonds, green tea, red meat, poultry, total fish and shellfish, dairy, fermented dairy, cheese, eggs, and beer the final models included two or more metabolites. Our results indicate that a combination of metabolites improve the possibilities to use metabolites to identify several foods included in the current diet. Combined metabolite models should be confirmed in dose–response intervention studies.
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| 24. |
- Akula, Srinivas, et al.
(author)
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Quantitative Transcriptome Analysis of Purified Equine Mast Cells Identifies a Dominant Mucosal Mast Cell Population with Possible Inflammatory Functions in Airways of Asthmatic Horses
- 2022
-
In: International Journal of Molecular Sciences. - : MDPI. - 1661-6596 .- 1422-0067. ; 23:22
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease and a serious health problem in horses as well as in humans. In humans and mice, mast cells (MCs) are known to be directly involved in asthma pathology and subtypes of MCs accumulate in different lung and airway compartments. The role and phenotype of MCs in equine asthma has not been well documented, although an accumulation of MCs in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) is frequently seen. To characterize the phenotype of airway MCs in equine asthma we here developed a protocol, based on MACS Tyto sorting, resulting in the isolation of 92.9% pure MCs from horse BALF. We then used quantitative transcriptome analyses to determine the gene expression profile of the purified MCs compared with total BALF cells. We found that the MCs exhibited a protease profile typical for the classical mucosal MC subtype, as demonstrated by the expression of tryptase (TPSB2) alone, with no expression of chymase (CMA1) or carboxypeptidase A3 (CPA3). Moreover, the expression of genes involved in antigen presentation and complement activation strongly implicates an inflammatory role for these MCs. This study provides a first insight into the phenotype of equine MCs in BALF and their potential role in the airways of asthmatic horses.
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| 25. |
- Haubro Andersen, Pia, et al.
(author)
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Towards Machine Recognition of Facial Expressions of Pain in Horses
- 2021
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In: Animals. - : MDPI. - 2076-2615. ; 11:6
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Simple Summary Facial activity can convey valid information about the experience of pain in a horse. However, scoring of pain in horses based on facial activity is still in its infancy and accurate scoring can only be performed by trained assessors. Pain in humans can now be recognized reliably from video footage of faces, using computer vision and machine learning. We examine the hurdles in applying these technologies to horses and suggest two general approaches to automatic horse pain recognition. The first approach involves automatically detecting objectively defined facial expression aspects that do not involve any human judgment of what the expression "means". Automated classification of pain expressions can then be done according to a rule-based system since the facial expression aspects are defined with this information in mind. The other involves training very flexible machine learning methods with raw videos of horses with known true pain status. The upside of this approach is that the system has access to all the information in the video without engineered intermediate methods that have filtered out most of the variation. However, a large challenge is that large datasets with reliable pain annotation are required. We have obtained promising results from both approaches. Automated recognition of human facial expressions of pain and emotions is to a certain degree a solved problem, using approaches based on computer vision and machine learning. However, the application of such methods to horses has proven difficult. Major barriers are the lack of sufficiently large, annotated databases for horses and difficulties in obtaining correct classifications of pain because horses are non-verbal. This review describes our work to overcome these barriers, using two different approaches. One involves the use of a manual, but relatively objective, classification system for facial activity (Facial Action Coding System), where data are analyzed for pain expressions after coding using machine learning principles. We have devised tools that can aid manual labeling by identifying the faces and facial keypoints of horses. This approach provides promising results in the automated recognition of facial action units from images. The second approach, recurrent neural network end-to-end learning, requires less extraction of features and representations from the video but instead depends on large volumes of video data with ground truth. Our preliminary results suggest clearly that dynamics are important for pain recognition and show that combinations of recurrent neural networks can classify experimental pain in a small number of horses better than human raters.
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| 26. |
- Sharif, Hanan, et al.
(author)
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A monoclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA for measuring canine Thymidine kinase 1 protein and its role as biomarker in canine lymphoma
- 2023
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In: Frontiers in Veterinary Science. - : Frontiers Media SA. - 2297-1769. ; 10
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Introduction: Dogs play an important role in society, which increased during the covid epidemics. This has led to a much higher workload for the veterinarians. Therefore, there is a need for efficient diagnostic tools to identify risk of malignant diseases. Here the development of a new test that can solve some of these problems is presented. It is based on serum Thymidine Kinase 1 (TK1), which is a biomarker for cell proliferation and cell lysis.Methods: Anti-TK1 monoclonal antibodies were produced against two different epitopes, the active site of the TK1 protein and the C-terminal region of canine TK1. The antibodies were developed with hybridoma technology and validated using dot blot, Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) technology, western blots, immunoprecipitation (IP), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clinical evaluation of Canine TK1 ELISA was done by using sera from 131 healthy dogs and 93 dogs with lymphoma. The two selected Anti-TK1 monoclonal antibodies have Kd values in the range of 10(-9) M and further analysis with dot and western blots confirmed the high affinity binding of these antibodies. A sandwich Canine TK1 ELISA was developed using the anti-TK1 antibodies, and TK1 concentrations in serum samples were determined using dog recombinant TK1 as a standard.Results: Serum TK1 protein levels were significantly higher in dogs with lymphoma compared to those in healthy dogs (p < 0.0001). Receiver operating curve analysis showed that the canine TK1-ELISA obtain a sensitivity of 0.80, at a specificity of 0.95. Moreover, the Canine TK1 ELISA has a positive predictive value (PPV) of 97%, and the negative predictive value (NPV) of 83%, reflecting the proportion of test results that are truly positive and negative. Furthermore, Canine TK1 ELISA had significantly higher capacity to differentiate dogs with T-cell lymphoma from those with B-cell lymphoma compared to earlier used TK1 activity assays.Discussion: These results demonstrate that the Canine TK1 ELISA can serve as an efficient tool in the diagnosis and management of dogs with lymphomas.
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| 27. |
- Sjölund, Marie
(author)
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Assigning defined daily doses animal: a European multi-country experience for antimicrobial products authorized for usage in pigs
- 2015
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In: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0305-7453 .- 1460-2091. ; 70, s. 294-302
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVES: To establish a consensus defined daily dose animal (DDDA) for each active substance (AS) and administration route for porcine veterinary antimicrobial products authorized in four European countries, thus allowing cross-country quantification and comparison of antimicrobial usage data. METHODS: All veterinary antimicrobial products authorized for porcine use in Belgium, France, Germany and Sweden were listed for each administration route. First, separate DDDAs for each product were defined based on the recommended dosing for the main indication. Second, a consensus DDDA was established by taking the mean of the DDDAs for each product within a certain category of AS plus administration route. RESULTS: One-hundred-and-fifty-nine, 240, 281 and 50 antimicrobial products were licensed in Belgium, France, Germany and Sweden, respectively, in February 2013. Large variations were observed for dosage and treatment duration recommendations between products and between countries for the same ASs. Only 6.8% of feed/water and 29.4% of parenteral AS groups had the same recommended dosage in the four countries. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents a consensus DDDA list for use in the quantification and comparison of antimicrobial consumption. Four major recommendations have been formulated: (i) urgent need for harmonization of authorization and recommended summary of product characteristics (SPC) dosages; (ii) expand the developed preliminary DDDA list to include all authorized veterinary medicinal products in all EU member states and for all (food-producing) animal species; (iii) improved accessibility of country-specific SPC data would be preferable; and (iv) statement of the 'long-acting' duration of a product in the SPC.
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| 28. |
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| 29. |
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| 30. |
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| 31. |
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| 32. |
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| 33. |
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| 34. |
- Sharma, Garima, et al.
(author)
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A qualitative study on antibiotic use and animal health management in smallholder dairy farms of four regions of India
- 2020
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In: Infection Ecology & Epidemiology. - : Taylor & Francis. - 2000-8686. ; 10:1
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global public health issue. In India, access to medicines is poorly regulated and therefore antibiotics in dairy cattle are commonly used by farmers without consulting with veterinarians. This study was conducted to understand practices and knowledge related to antibiotic use and AMR among dairy farmers and veterinary professionals in selected urban and peri-urban areas of India.MethodsA total of 28 focus group discussions with farmers and 53 interviews with veterinary professionals were carried out.ResultsMastitiswas identified as the main animal health challenge. Antibiotic consultation behavior of farmers depended on the availability of veterinarians. Except in Bangalore, farmers were found to often treat animals on their own. They were found unaware of the concept of AMR, but knew the importance of vaccination. Veterinarians included in the study had a good understanding of antibiotics, AMR, and zoonotic diseases.ConclusionThe knowledge level and practices observed in the study related to the use/abuse of antibiotics can potentially increase the risk of development of AMR and its transfer in the community. Our findings can help support AMR – mitigation efforts in the country, including the design of better policies on antibiotic use in dairy.
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| 35. |
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| 36. |
- Lundälv, Jörgen, 1966
(author)
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Bioterrorism och media
- 2004
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Book (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Attacker med biologiska och kemiska preparat är ett nytt hot mot institutioner i världen bl.a massmedia. I USA har ett antal medieföretag attackerats med brev som visat sig innehålla mjältbrand. I Sverige utsätts medier för hot och risker med jämna mellanrum. Denna guide om säkerhet och beredskap ger ny kunskap om vad bioterrorism innebär och vilka hotbilder som finns mot medieföretag i Sverige. Den vänder sig också till informationsstrateger vid myndigheter och företag liksom till hälso- och sjukvårdspersonal med intresse för epidemiologiska frågor. Guiden inleds med företal av Gorm Albrechtsen, f.d. chefredaktör vid Herning Folkeblad i Danmark som utsatts för misstänkta pulverbrev samt av Åke Sellström, avdelningschef vid Totalförsvarets forskningsinstitut (FOI) och expert på biologiska och kemiska vapen.
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| 37. |
- Löfgren, Maria, et al.
(author)
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Time-dependent changes in gene expression induced in vitro by interleukin-1 beta in equine articular cartilage
- 2018
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In: Research in Veterinary Science. - : Elsevier BV. - 0034-5288 .- 1532-2661. ; 118, s. 466-476
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory and degenerative joint disease commonly affecting horses. To identify genes of relevance for cartilage pathology in osteoarthritis we studied the time-course effects of interleukin (IL)-1 beta on equine articular cartilage. Articular cartilage explants from the distal third metacarpal bone were collected postmortem from three horses without evidence of joint disease. The explants were stimulated with IL-1 beta for 27 days and global gene expression was measured by microarray. Gene expression was compared to that of unstimulated explants at days 3, 9, 15, 21 and 27. Release of inflammatory proteins was measured using Proximity Extension Assay. Stimulation with IL-1 beta led to time-dependent changes in gene expression related to inflammation, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and phenotypic alterations. Gene expression and protein release of cytokines, chemokines, and matrix-degrading enzymes increased in the stimulated explants. Collagen type II was down regulated from day 15, whereas other ECM molecules were downregulated earlier. In contrast molecules involved in ECM signaling (perlecan, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4, and syndecan 4) were upregulated. At the late time points, genes related to a chondrogenic phenotype were downregulated, and genes related to a hypertrophic phenotype were upregulated, suggesting a transition towards hypertrophy later in the culturing period. The data suggest that this in vitro model mimics time course events of in vivo inflammation in OA and it may be valuable as an in vitro tool to test treatments and to study disease mechanisms.
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| 38. |
- Malaluang, Pongpreecha, et al.
(author)
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Antimicrobial Resistance in Equine Reproduction
- 2021
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In: Animals. - : MDPI. - 2076-2615. ; 11:11
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Simple SummaryBacteria can develop resistance to antibiotics, resulting in the appearance of infections that are difficult or impossible to treat. This ability enables bacteria to survive in hostile environments and can result from exposure to even small amounts of antibiotic substances. Bacteria are present in the reproductive tract of the horse; they can develop resistance to antibiotics, because the animal has been treated for an infection, or due to insemination with a semen dose that contains antibiotics. Bacteria colonize the membrane lining the male reproductive tract and are transferred to the semen during collection. They can cause sperm quality to deteriorate during storage or may cause an infection in the mare. Therefore, antibiotics are added to the semen dose, according to legislation. However, these antibiotics may contribute to the development of resistance. Current recommendations are that antibiotics should only be used to treat bacterial infections and where the sensitivity of the bacterium to the antibiotic has first been established. Therefore, adding antibiotics to semen extenders does not fit these recommendations. In this review, we examine the effects of bacteria in semen and in the inseminated mare, and possible alternatives to their use.Bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics following low-level "background " exposure to antimicrobial agents as well as from exposure at therapeutic levels during treatment for bacterial infections. In this review, we look specifically at antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the equine reproductive tract and its possible origin, focusing particularly on antibiotics in semen extenders used in preparing semen doses for artificial insemination. Our review of the literature indicated that AMR in the equine uterus and vagina were reported worldwide in the last 20 years, in locations as diverse as Europe, India, and the United States. Bacteria colonizing the mucosa of the reproductive tract are transferred to semen during collection; further contamination of the semen may occur during processing, despite strict attention to hygiene at critical control points. These bacteria compete with spermatozoa for nutrients in the semen extender, producing metabolic byproducts and toxins that have a detrimental effect on sperm quality. Potential pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa may occasionally cause fertility issues in inseminated mares. Antibiotics are added during semen processing, according to legislation, to impede the growth of these microorganisms but may have a detrimental effect on sperm quality, depending on the antimicrobial agent and concentration used. However, this addition of antibiotics is counter to current recommendations on the prudent use of antibiotics, which recommend that antibiotics should be used only for therapeutic purposes and after establishing bacterial sensitivity. There is some evidence of resistance among bacteria found in semen samples. Potential alternatives to the addition of antibiotics are considered, especially physical removal separation of spermatozoa from bacteria. Suggestions for further research with colloid centrifugation are provided.
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| 39. |
- Dube, Faruk, et al.
(author)
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Transcriptomics of ivermectin response in Caenorhabditis elegans : Integrating abamectin quantitative trait loci and comparison to the Ivermectin-exposed DA1316 strain
- 2023
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In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 18:5
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Parasitic nematodes pose a significant threat to human and animal health, as well as cause economic losses in the agricultural sector. The use of anthelmintic drugs, such as Ivermectin (IVM), to control these parasites has led to widespread drug resistance. Identifying genetic markers of resistance in parasitic nematodes can be challenging, but the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans provides a suitable model. In this study, we aimed to analyze the transcriptomes of adult C. elegans worms of the N2 strain exposed to the anthelmintic drug Ivermectin (IVM), and compare them to those of the resistant strain DA1316 and the recently identified Abamectin Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) on chromosome V. We exposed pools of 300 adult N2 worms to IVM (10(-7) and 10(-8) M) for 4 hours at 20 degrees C, extracted total RNA and sequenced it on the Illumina NovaSeq6000 platform. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined using an in-house pipeline. The DEGs were compared to genes from a previous microarray study on IVM-resistant C. elegans and Abamectin-QTL. Our results revealed 615 DEGs (183 up-regulated and 432 down-regulated genes) from diverse gene families in the N2 C. elegans strain. Of these DEGs, 31 overlapped with genes from IVM-exposed adult worms of the DA1316 strain. We identified 19 genes, including the folate transporter (folt-2) and the transmembrane transporter (T22F3.11), which exhibited an opposite expression in N2 and the DA1316 strain and were deemed potential candidates. Additionally, we compiled a list of potential candidates for further research including T-type calcium channel (cca-1), potassium chloride cotransporter (kcc-2), as well as other genes such as glutamate-gated channel (glc-1) that mapped to the Abamectin-QTL.
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| 40. |
- Klütsch, Cornelya, et al.
(author)
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Regional occurrence, high frequency but low diversity of mitochondrial DNA haplogroup d1 suggests a recent dog-wolf hybridization in Scandinavia
- 2011
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In: Animal Genetics. - : Wiley. - 0268-9146 .- 1365-2052. ; 42:1, s. 100-103
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- P>The domestic dog mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-gene pool consists of a homogenous mix of haplogroups shared among all populations worldwide, indicating that the dog originated at a single time and place. However, one small haplogroup, subclade d1, found among North Scandinavian/Finnish spitz breeds at frequencies above 30%, has a clearly separate origin. We studied the genetic and geographical diversity for this phylogenetic group to investigate where and when it originated and whether through independent domestication of wolf or dog-wolf crossbreeding. We analysed 582 bp of the mtDNA control region for 514 dogs of breeds earlier shown to harbour d1 and possibly related northern spitz breeds. Subclade d1 occurred almost exclusively among Swedish/Finnish Sami reindeer-herding spitzes and some Swedish/Norwegian hunting spitzes, at a frequency of mostly 60-100%. Genetic diversity was low, with only four haplotypes: a central, most frequent, one surrounded by two haplotypes differing by an indel and one differing by a substitution. The substitution was found in a single lineage, as a heteroplasmic mix with the central haplotype. The data indicate that subclade d1 originated in northern Scandinavia, at most 480-3000 years ago and through dog-wolf crossbreeding rather than a separate domestication event. The high frequency of d1 suggests that the dog-wolf hybrid phenotype had a selective advantage.
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| 41. |
- Lindahl Rajala, Elisabeth, et al.
(author)
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Detection and characterization of Brucella spp. in bovine milk in small-scale urban and peri-urban farming in Tajikistan
- 2017
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In: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1935-2727 .- 1935-2735. ; 11:3
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Brucellosis is one of the most common zoonoses globally, and Central Asia remains a Brucella hotspot. The World Health Organization classifies brucellosis as a neglected zoonotic disease that is rarely in the spotlight for research and mainly affects poor, marginalized people. Urban and peri-urban farming is a common practice in many low-income countries, and it increases the incomes of families that are often restrained by limited economic resources. However, there is a concern that the growing number of people and livestock living close together in these areas will increase the transmission of zoonotic pathogens such as Brucella. This study investigates the presence of Brucella DNA in bovine milk in the urban and peri-urban area of Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Brucella DNA was detected in 10.3% of 564 cow milk samples by IS711-based real-time PCR. This finding is concerning because consumption of unpasteurized dairy products is common in the region. Furthermore, Brucella DNA was detected in the milk of all seropositive cows, but 8.3% of the seronegative cows also showed the presence of Brucella DNA. In addition, sequence analysis of the rpoB gene suggests that one cow was infected with B. abortus and another cow was most likely infected with B. melitensis. The discrepancies between the serology and real-time PCR results highlight the need to further investigate whether there is a need for implementing complementary diagnostic strategies to detect false serological negative individuals in Brucella surveillance, control, and eradication programmes. Furthermore, vaccination of cattle with S19 in addition to vaccination of small ruminants with Rev 1 might be needed in order to control Brucella infections in the livestock population but further research focusing on the isolation of Brucella is required to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the Brucella spp. circulating among the livestock in this region.
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| 42. |
- Lin, Jay, et al.
(author)
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High prevalence of hepatitis E virus in Swedish moose : A phylogenetic characterization and comparison of the virus from different regions
- 2015
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In: PLoS ONE. - : Public Library of Science (PLoS). - 1932-6203. ; 10:4
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infects a range of species, including humans, pigs, wild boars and deer. Zoonotic transmission may contribute to the high HEV seroprevalence in the human population of many countries. A novel divergent HEV from moose (Alces alces) in Sweden was recently identified by partial genome sequencing. Since only one strain was found, its classification within the HEV family, prevalence in moose and zoonotic potential was unclear. We therefore investigated samples from 231 moose in seven Swedish counties for HEV, and sequenced a near complete moose HEV genome. Phylogenetic analysis to classify this virus within the family Hepeviridae and to explore potential host specific determinants was performed. Methods and Findings: The HEV prevalence of moose was determined by PCR (marker for active infection) and serological assays (marker of past infection) of sera and 51 fecal samples from 231 Swedish moose. Markers of active and past infection were found in 67 (29%) animals, while 34 (15%) were positive for HEV RNA, 43 (19%) were seropositive for anti-HEV antibodies, and 10 (4%) had both markers. The number of young individuals positive for HEV RNA was larger than for older individuals, and the number of anti-HEV antibody positive individuals increased with age. The high throughput sequenced moose HEV genome was 35-60% identical to existing HEVs. Partial ORF1 sequences from 13 moose strains showed high similarity among them, forming a distinct monophyletic clade with a common ancestor to HEV genotype 1-6 group, which includes members known for zoonotic transmission. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a high frequency of HEV in moose in Sweden, with markers of current and past infection demonstrated in 30% of the animals. Moose is thus an important animal reservoir of HEV. The phylogenetic relationship demonstrated that the moose HEV belonged to the genotype 1-6 group, which includes strains that also infect humans, and therefore may signify a potential for zoonotic transmission of this HEV. © 2015 Lin et al.
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| 43. |
- Cuevas Romero, Julieta Sandra
(author)
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Studies of the molecular genetics and epidemiology of porcine rubulavirus infection
- 2015
-
Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Porcine rubulavirus (PorPV) infection emerged spontaneously in pigs in Mexico in the early 1980s. Since the report of the initial outbreak of the disease, only one full-length genome from a strain isolated in 1984 (PorPV-LPMV/1984) has been sequenced. There is therefore limited information about the genetic variation of this virus. The overall objective of this thesis was to develop molecular techniques to help in the diagnostic field and to investigate in greater detail the full genomes of several isolates, and if possible, gain insights into the persistence, molecular epidemiology and the possible reservoirs of PorPV. In addition, a characterisation of the immune response during acute and persistent infection was included. A real-time RT-PCR was developed for the detection of viral RNA from PorPV in clinical samples using TaqMan technology and primers for the P gene. This assay was highly sensitive (approximately 10 copies per reaction), specific, reproducible and a very useful tool for molecular diagnostics and for enabling studies of various aspects of PorPV throughout this thesis. RT-PCRs based on the NP and P genes were used to study the tissue distribution of the virus. Viral mRNA in the lymph nodes showed that the NP gene was consistently detected in the parotid, submaxilar, cervical and mesenteric nodes and the pancreas. Full-length genomes were sequenced from new isolates obtained from clinical cases of infected swine. The genetic comparison and phylogenetic analysis indicated that three different genetic variants of PorPV had spread in the swine population and that a new generation of circulating virus with a pronounced attenuation has begun to emerge in nature. We also report the isolation of PorPV, or a related virus, from frugivorous, insectivorous, and hematophagous bats. A partial genome sequence analysis showed a 99.97 - 100% amino acid identity to the reference strain isolated from swine. However, larger parts of the genome must be sequenced to ascertain the genetic relationship between these viruses. The study of the immune response during acute and persistent infection revealed enhanced levels of CD8+, CD4+ and CD2+ T-cells in all infected pigs at 10 days PI. CD8+ T-cell subpopulations were significantly higher (p<0.05) at 10 and 250 days PI, and CD4+ T-lymphocytes were also significant at 250 days PI. In summary, this work developed molecular techniques that can be used to study the pathogenesis and molecular epidemiology of PorPV. The knowledge of the presence of different virus variants in nature, associated with a wildlife reservoir of PorPV can provide greater knowledge regarding the molecular genetic changes and useful data to establish new strategies in the control of this virus in Mexico.
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| 44. |
- Johansson Wensman, Jonas, et al.
(author)
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Borna disease virus infection in cats
- 2014
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In: Veterinary Journal. - : Elsevier BV. - 1090-0233 .- 1532-2971. ; 201, s. 142-149
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Bornaviruses are known to cause neurological disorders in a number of animal species. Avian Bornavirus (ABV) causes proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) in birds and Borna disease virus (BDV) causes Borna disease in horses and sheep. BDV also causes staggering disease in cats, characterised by ataxia, behavioural changes and loss of postural reactions. BDV-infection markers in cats have been reported throughout the world. This review summarizes the current knowledge of Borna disease viruses in cats, including etiological agent, clinical signs, pathogenesis, epidemiology and diagnostics, with comparisons to Bornavirus infections in other species.
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| 45. |
- Johansson Wensman, Jonas
(author)
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Bornaviruses
- 2013
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In: Mononegaviruses of Veterinary Importance Vol. I: Pathobiology and Molecular Diagnosis. - UK : CABI. - 9781780641799 ; , s. 1-14
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Book chapter (other academic/artistic)
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| 46. |
- Riihimäki, Miia, et al.
(author)
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Viral load of equine herpesviruses 2 and 5 in nasal swabs of actively racing Standardbred trotters: Temporal relationship of shedding to clinical findings and poor performance
- 2015
-
In: Veterinary Microbiology. - : Elsevier BV. - 0378-1135 .- 1873-2542. ; 179, s. 142-148
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The equine gamma herpesviruses 2 and 5 (EHV-2 and -5) have frequently been observed in the equine population and until recently presumed low to nonpathogenic. However, recent reports linking presence of equine gamma herpesviruses with clinical signs of mild to severe lung disease, suggest that the role of these viruses in respiratory disease and poor performance syndrome is still unclear. Moreover, baseline data regarding the temporal pattern of shedding of EHV-2 and EHV-5 within stables and within individual actively racing horses have been lacking. In a prospective longitudinal study, we followed elite racing Standardbred trotters at monthly intervals for 13 months, to investigate whether the amount of EHV-2 and EHV-5 shedded in nasal secretions varied over time within and between individual horses. Sixty-six elite horses were investigated by analyzing nasal swabs and serum samples, a health check and evaluation of athletic performance monthly during the study period. Nasal swabs were analyzed with two newly developed qPCR assays for EHV-2 and EHV-5, respectively. Of 663 samples, 197 (30%) were positive for EHV-2 and 492(74%) positive for EHV-5. Furthermore, 176(27%) of the samples were positive for both EHV-2 and EHV-5 simultaneously. There was considerable variation in the amount and frequency of shedding of EHV-2 and EHV-5 within and between individual horses. Viral load varied seasonally, but neither EHV-2 nor EHV-5 viral peaks were associated with clinical respiratory disease and/or poor performance in racing Standardbred trotters. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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| 47. |
- Sharma, Garima, et al.
(author)
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Antibiotic use, knowledge, and practices of milk vendors in India's informal dairy value chain
- 2022
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In: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems. - : Frontiers Media S.A.. - 2571-581X. ; 6
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Milk vendors play an important role in India's dairy value chain; however, their food safety practices are poorly understood. From the standpoint of milk safety, vendor behavior is significant because it has the potential to affect both consumer and producer behavior. This study investigates vendors' hygienic knowledge and practices toward milk safety, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR)Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the states of Assam and Haryana (India). In selected villages, all the milk vendors identified at the time of the visit were interviewed. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge and practices on antibiotics, milk safety, and hygiene. The milk samples were tested for the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria using antibiotic susceptibility testing.Results: A total of 2444 milk vendors were interviewed during the survey. Out of these 156 (59.8%) of the vendors traded in raw milk while 40.2% traded in pasteurizes milk. Vendors were categorized depending on whom they supplied milk. Five categories were identified: (a) those who sold at grocery shops; (b) those who sold on the roadside; (c) those who sold from door to door; (d) those who sold to sweet makers/tea stalls; (e) those who sold from own home/other entity. The level of training among vendors on milk hygiene was non-existent and the knowledge related to antibiotics was low. Most of them (86.07%) agreed that boiled milk is always safer than raw milk but almost half (48.77%) of them admitted that sometimes they drink milk without boiling it. Most vendors believed that they could identify whether milk is safe or not for consumption just by its appearance and smell. Out of 124 milk samples collected from surveyed milk vendors and tested for the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, 80 (64.52%) tested positive.Conclusion: This study highlights the low levels of knowledge regarding food safety among milk vendors. It shows the predominance of informal milk businesses in the surveyed states and the prevalence of AMR bacteria in milk traded by them. Training may be a beneficial strategy for addressing the issue.
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| 48. |
- Skiöldebrand, Eva, et al.
(author)
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Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein neoepitope in the synovial fluid of horses with acute lameness: A new biomarker for the early stages of osteoarthritis
- 2017
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In: Equine Veterinary Journal. - : Wiley. - 0425-1644 .- 2042-3306. ; 49:5, s. 662-667
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundClinical tools to diagnose the early changes of osteoarthritis (OA) that occur in the articular cartilage are lacking. ObjectivesWe sought to identify and quantify a novel cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) neoepitope in the synovial fluid from the joints of healthy horses and those with different stages of OA. Study designIn vitro quantitative proteomics and assay development with application in synovial fluids samples obtained from biobanks of well-characterised horses. MethodsArticular cartilage explants were incubated with or without interleukin-1 for 25 days. Media were analysed via quantitative proteomics. Synovial fluid was obtained from either normal joints (n = 15) or joints causing lameness (n = 17) or with structural OA lesions (n = 7) and analysed for concentrations of the COMP neoepitope using a custom-developed inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Explants were immunostained with polyclonal antibodies against COMP and the COMP neoepitopes. ResultsSemitryptic COMP peptides were identified and quantified in cell culture media from cartilage explants. A rabbit polyclonal antibody was raised against the neoepitope of the N-terminal portion of one COMP fragment (sequence SGPTHEGVC). An inhibition ELISA was developed to quantify the COMP neoepitope in synovial fluid. The mean concentration of the COMP neoepitope significantly increased in the synovial fluid from the joints responsible for acute lameness compared with normal joints and the joints of chronically lame horses and in joints with chronic structural OA. Immunolabelling for the COMP neoepitope revealed a pericellular staining in the interleukin-1-stimulated explants. Main limitationsThe ELISA is based on polyclonal antisera rather than a monoclonal antibody. ConclusionsThe increase in the COMP neoepitope in the synovial fluid from horses with acute lameness suggests that this neoepitope has the potential to be a unique candidate biomarker for the early molecular changes in articular cartilage associated with OA.
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- Waern, Ida, et al.
(author)
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PP-020-09 Protective role of mast cell chymase in house dust mite induced allergic airway inflammation
- 2010
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In: International Immunology. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0953-8178 .- 1460-2377. ; 22, s. i134-
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Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Mast cells release substantial amounts of active proteases, including chymase, upon activation and degranulation inresponse to e.g. IgE cross-linking. A chymase polymorphism has been associated with allergic asthma but the role of chymase in the pathogenesis is not fully understood. We recently showed that mouse mast cell protease 4 (mMCP-4) is the major chymotryptic enzyme in murine airways and that mMCP-4 can protect against bronchial hyperresponsiveness. We here assessed the role of chymase in a model of airway inflammation where mMCP-4 deficient (mMCP-4-/-) and wild type (WT) controls received repeated intranasal instillations of house dust mite (HDM). HDM-sensitization resulted in an accumulation of eosinophils and lymphocytes in the airways of both WT and mMCP-4-/- mice, but the numbers of eosinophils were approximately 5-fold higher in mMCP-4-/- mice. The airway inflammation correlated with the degree of T cell activation in draining lymph nodes. Moreover, the serum level of IgE was significantly higher in sensitized mMCP-4-/- mice than in WT mice. These results suggest a regulatory role for mMCP-4 in the early sensitization process when release of MC proteases in response to IgE cross-linking would be minimal. However, we found that HDM extract per se induced a low but significant degranulation in cultured MCs derived from both mMCP-4-/- and WT mice. Together these results suggest that MC chymase is released upon HDM exposure and that chymase has a protective role in HDM-induced airway inflammation by acting as a negative regulator of allergic sensitization.
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