Journal of Advanced Veterinary Research

Molecular identification of the blaTEM gene in Escherichia coli isolated from quail in Surabaya

2026-01-04T11:14:38+02:00

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a major global public health concern driven in part by extensive antibiotic use in food-producing animals. Poultry production, including quail farming, plays a significant role in the dissemination of resistant bacteria due to intensive management systems and frequent antimicrobial exposure. Escherichia coli, a common intestinal commensal and opportunistic pathogen, is widely used as an indicator organism for monitoring AMR, particularly extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production mediated by genes such as blaTEM. However, data on ESBL-associated resistance in quails marketed in Indonesia remain limited. This study aimed to detect the presence of the blaTEM gene in E. coli isolated from quails sold in traditional markets in Surabaya, Indonesia. A total of 150 cloacal swab samples were collected from five traditional markets between November and December 2024. Isolation and identification of E. coli were performed using conventional bacteriological and biochemical methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method in accordance with CLSI guidelines. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the blaTEM gene among aztreonam-resistant isolates. E. coli was isolated from 148 of 150 samples (99%). The highest resistance rates were observed against ciprofloxacin (33.1%), tetracycline (22.2%), and aztreonam (13.5%), while resistance to kanamycin and chloramphenicol remained low. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli was identified in 2.7% of isolates. PCR analysis revealed the presence of the blaTEM gene in five aztreonam-resistant isolates, confirming the circulation of ESBL-associated resistance. These findings indicate that quails marketed in traditional markets may serve as reservoirs of antimicrobial-resistant E. coli. Continuous surveillance, prudent antimicrobial use, and improved hygiene practices are essential to mitigate the spread of ESBL-producing bacteria within a One Health framework.

Molecular detection and epidemiological insights of Clostridioides difficile in Egyptian fruit bats

2026-01-03T10:47:59+02:00

Clostridioides difficile is a major global cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, increasingly recognized as a community- and zoonosis-linked pathogen with widespread environmental and animal reservoirs. Given the ecological overlap between bats, humans, and livestock and the limited data on bats, this study investigated the presence of C. difficile and its toxin genes in Egyptian bats to evaluate their potential role in the transmission cycle. Fifty fruit bats (Rousettus spp.) were captured and identified using standard morphological keys. Intestinal content samples were collected and cultured anaerobically in Cooked Meat Medium. DNA was extracted from isolates, and PCR was performed to detect C. difficile (tpi) and its toxin genes (tcdA, tcdB). C. difficile was detected in 64% of intestinal content samples (32/50), with 16 isolates (32%) identified as toxigenic. Among these, 21.8% were tcdA⁺/tcdB⁻, 15.6% tcdA⁻/tcdB⁺, and 12.5% carried both genes, while 32% of isolates were non-toxigenic. This study provides the first molecular evidence of toxigenic and non-toxigenic C. difficile in Egyptian fruit bats, prominence their potential role as environmental reservoirs. The findings highlight the need for bats investigation to clarify the possible transmission ways within human, animals and environment.

Role of Egyptian powdered date palm kernels and probiotics in alleviating degradation induced by Doxycycline misuse in broilers

2026-01-03T10:55:45+02:00

Date palm kernel powder (DPKP) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast (SCY) enhance poultry health and meat production. Antibiotic misuse in broilers has negative consequences. To show the ability of DPKP and SCY feed additives in alleviating degradation induced by doxycycline misuse in broilers. Five groups of fifteen chicks started on the ninth day and lasted until 42 days of their life. At the end, all birds were weighed, muscles were collected after euthanasia. and the meat samples was frozen at -20°C for residue measurement. Another part was refrigerated at 4±1°C for microorganism detection, and biochemical indices were tested on 0, 3rd, 7th, and 9th days after refrigeration. The Doxycycline-treated group showed a non-significantly higher mean total colony count, increased mean Doxycycline residue by 100%, 60.63%, 65.7%, and 100%, and decreased mean end body weight by 11.38%, 21.2%, 20.25%, and 12.3% compared to the control, Doxycycline (Doxy) + DPKP, Doxy + SCY, and SCY-treated groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Nonetheless, the Doxy + DPKP, Doxy + SCY, and SCY-treated groups showed significant increases (P <0.001). Compared to the Doxy-treated group, all treated groups had lower Enterobacteriaceae counts (P <0.001). The psychoactive count greatly increased in the Doxy + SCY and SCY groups, dramatically decreased in the Doxy-treated group when compared to the control and Doxy + DPKP-treated groups. Staph count was higher in the Doxy-treated groups than in the control. Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa were not isolated. On the third day of refrigeration, the Doxy-treated group had higher TVBN and pH than the other treated groups. It could be concluded that SCY and DPKP reduce doxycycline degradation in broiler feeds while maintaining meat quality.

Intratumoral virotherapy with Indonesian Newcastle disease virus reduces mTOR expression and induces apoptosis in rat breast cancer models

2026-01-02T15:47:42+02:00

Autophagy and apoptosis are two key cellular pathways that are commonly promoted as therapeutic strategies for inhibiting cancer growth. Newcastle disease virus (NDV) has shown strong potency as cancer therapeutic agent and has been reported to induce both autophagy and apoptosis in malignant cells. NDV isolate from Indonesia has demonstrated oncolytic activity; however, the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the oncolytic mechanism of the Indonesian NDV isolate Tabanan-1/ARP/2017 by examining the expression of mTOR and caspase-3. Paraffin-embedded tissue blocks were obtained from a previous study. Six rats with breast cancer were divided into two groups: placebo group receiving 0.5 mL PBS, and therapy group receiving 7 log₂ HAU of NDV Tabanan-1/ARP/2017 per 0.5 mL administered intratumorally. Treatments were performed once daily for four consecutive days. After 15 days from initial treatment, the tumor tissues were collected, processed into paraffin blocks, and immunohistochemically stained with anti-mTOR and anti-caspase-3. The expression of both proteins was analyzed based on optical density using Fiji (ImageJ). mTOR expression in the therapy group was significantly lower than in the placebo group, whereas caspase-3 expression was significantly higher in the therapy group. These findings indicate that NDV Tabanan-1/ARP/2017 therapy is associated with decreased mTOR expression and apoptosis induction, as indicated by caspase-3 activation.

Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa associated with airsacculitis in broiler chickens

2026-01-07T21:01:42+02:00

Airsacculitis is one of the respiratory manifestations caused by many bacterial and viral agents. The current work focused on airsacculitis syndrome and phenotypic as well as genotypic characterization of P. aeruginosa associated with airsacculitis in broiler chickens. A total of 105 airsacculitis samples were collected aseptically from slaughtered diseased and freshly dead broiler chickens from different farms in El-Fayoum, Beni-Suef and El-Menia Governorates. The prevalence of airsacculitis in the examined broiler chickens was 43.9%. A total of 56 P. aeruginosa isolates were recovered from the examined samples with a prevalence of 53.3%. The results of in-vitro antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed that P. aeruginosa isolates showed high resistances against β-lactams, gentamicin and sulfa antimicrobials meanwhile showed high sensitivities against fluoroquinolones and phenicols. All isolates have been subjected to both combined disc diffusion and cefinase tests for phenotypic detection of ESβLs production which was confirmed in 39.3% and 42.9% of isolates, respectively. Haemolytic activity, biofilm formation and pyocyanin production were phenotypically detected in all isolates. PCR was conducted on 6 MDR isolates for determination of 5 resistance genes, ampC, bla_CTX, bla_TEM, aadB and sul1. The results revealed that all the tested P. aeruginosa isolates had ampC, bla_CTX and bla_TEM, while 66.7% had both sul1 and aadB genes. Also, PCR was conducted to detect 6 virulence genes; toxA, exoS, lasI, lasB, phzM and hlyA. The results revealed that all isolates had exoS, lasI, lasB and phzM genes while 83.3% and 66.7% of tested isolates had toxA and hlyA genes, respectively.

Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of bacterial isolates causing bovine mastitis with reference to MALDI-TOF-MS for isolates’ identification

2026-01-04T11:50:16+02:00

In this investigation, we assessed the phenotypic and genotypic traits of bacterial and Mycoplasma species associated with bovine mastitis. We examined ninety milk samples taken from cows with mastitis by conventional bacteriological methods, testing for antimicrobial susceptibility, virulence profile, and molecular techniques to determine the presence of resistance genes. The most common pathogens identified as part of this investigation were: E. coli, Enterococcus faecalis, and Mycoplasma spp. Additionally, our examination of cows with mastitis revealed many cows had mixed infections, thus demonstrating the polymicrobial nature of mastitis. The antimicrobial susceptibility of the mastitis causative agents was evaluated through antimicrobial susceptibility testing and revealed that most commonly used classes of antibiotics had demonstrated high levels of resistance being present. Foundationally, the molecular analysis of the pathogens confirmed the presence of multiple critical resistance genes. Biofilm formation, as well as enzymes, were found to be elevated demonstrating the pathogens had the capacity to survive within their host's mammary tissues. This investigation document MALDI-TOF-MS as a rapid and effective tool for identification of the causative agents of bovine mastitis. The results from this study support and reinforces the need for ongoing disease monitoring and responsible antibiotic usage for the control of mastitis in dairy cattle as well as for preventing the development of antibiotic resistance in dairy herds.

Genetic analysis of Intron 2 of Muscling Gene Myostatin (MSTN) and its association with morphometric in Dorper sheep

2026-01-07T20:58:24+02:00

Myostatin (MSTN) acts as an inhibitor of skeletal muscle growth, and genetic variations in this gene are known to affect growth performance in livestock. This research explored the genetic variation in intron 2 of the MSTN gene and its correlation to morphometric traits in Dorper sheep. The study involved 42 animals, including nine imported Australian Dorper (G0) and 33 offspring (G1). Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples, and a 1078 bp segment of MSTN intron 2 was amplified and sequenced. The morphometric traits assessed were body weight (BW), body length (BL), withers height (WH), chest depth (CD), chest width (CW), chest girth (CG), rump height (RH), and rump width (R). Sequence analysis revealed a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs406265773, with genotypic frequencies of 0.81 (AA), 0.14 (AC), and 0.05 (CC), and allelic frequencies of 0.88 (A) and 0.12 (C). The observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.14 and 0.21, respectively, indicating a deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (χ² = 4.27). Both haplotype and nucleotide diversity were found to be low. Significant correlations were found between MSTN genotypes and several morphometric traits. These findings suggest that rs406265773 could be a useful genetic marker for growth related traits in Dorper sheep, potentially aiding marker assisted selection in breeding programs.

Antimicrobial potential of essential oils and blue-green Algae against E. coli isolated from diseased broiler

2026-01-08T20:01:59+02:00

Enterobacteriaceae have a significant importance as an infectious agent of chickens causing substantial morbidity and mortality in addition to economic losses. In the present work, the prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae was investigated in many broiler chickens farms in Beni-Suef Governorate. One hundred and seventeen samples were obtained aseptically from the affected organs including heart, liver, yolk sac, air sac and pericardium of diseased and recently dead broilers. Collected samples underwent bacteriological investigation, which revealed that 95 isolates were isolated with a percentage of 81.2% including 90 E. coli isolates (76.9%) and 5 Proteus species (4.3%). In-vitro antimicrobial sensitivity test results indicated that E. coli isolates exhibited complete resistance against ciprofloxacin (100%), reduced resistance against enrofloxacin (82%), chloramphenicol (76%), streptomycin (74%), cefotaxime (60%), sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim and ceftazidime (46% for each), while showed high susceptibility to amikacin (92%), fosfomycin (76%), doxycycline (74%), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (70%), ertapenem (66%) and colistin (60%). Moreover, multi-drug resistance was determined in 78% of tested isolates. The antibacterial effect of some essential oils (clove, cinnamon, oregano and eucalyptus oil) and blue green algae was evaluated against the growth of MDR E. coli isolates and the results revealed that clove, cinnamon and oregano EOs completely inhibited the growth of all examined E. coli isolates (100%) at concentrations of 1000 ppm, 500 ppm and 250 ppm, respectively. Whereas eucalyptus EO showed no bactericidal effect on all tested E. coli isolates at concentrations up to 1500 ppm. Moreover, blue green algae showed no bactericidal effect on all tested E. coli isolates at concentrations up to 10%. Finally, molecular characterization of resistance and virulence genes declared that all isolates carried blaTEM, sul1, fimH, iss and iutA (100%), while qnrS was detected in 60% of tested isolates.

Prospects of GnRH-loaded on chitosan nanoparticles combined with exogenous progesterone supplementation for treatment of true anoestrus in multiparous Egyptian buffaloes during summer months

2026-01-17T18:21:16+02:00

This study was designed in order to clarify the follicular dynamics, steroid hormones concentrations, and conception rate in true anestrus buffaloes during the summer months. Before beginning, true anestrus was diagnosed via trans-rectal ultrasonography on day 85 and day 95 postpartum by SonoScape scanning. 50 true anestrus multiparous lactating Egyptian buffalo cows with average ages 5-8 years; weighted 400- 450kg, parity 3±0.2 and daily milk production of 10.4±0.6 kg were chosen. Two protocols were applied (GPP group: GnRH-PRID-synch protocol, n=20 and GCP group: GnRH-loaded chitosan-PRID-synch protocol, n=20) and compared with control group, n=10. In day 0 for GPP group, PRID was inserted intravaginally together with 2 ml Gonavet Veyx® (commercial GnRH), then it removed at d7 and buffaloes received 2 ml Estrumate. On day 9, animals received 2 ml Gonavet Veyx® intramuscular and then were artificially inseminated at fixed time 16-20 hr later. The same protocol was performed on GCP group, but Gonadotropins were modified by loading GnRH on chitosan nanoparticles so, buffaloes were recived 1 ml of modified Gonavet Veyx® at d0 and d9. Control group buffaloes received 10 ml intramuscular saline (NaCl 0.9%) on Days 0, 7, and 9, respectively. The serum concentration of (E2 and P4) was estimated. Ultrasonography was used for diagnosis of follicular dynamics. Estrus induction and pregnancy rates were calculated. GCP group had the highest values of E2, P4 and CL size. In addition, improved estrus induction and pregnancy rate in GCP group were noticed compared to other groups but without significant differences.

Relationship between incidence of probiotics and presence of pathogenic bacteria in milk products

2026-02-11T21:50:07+02:00

Milk and dairy products hold a prominent place in the Egyptian diet; however, their contamination by pathogenic microorganisms constitutes a significant public health concern. Bacterial contamination of fermented dairy items is particularly critical, as it compromises both the safety of the end products and facilitates the transmission of foodborne pathogens to the population. Therefore, this study was conducted for the investigation of the incidence of probiotic and potentially pathogenic bacteria in dairy products with a focus on the relationship between the presence of probiotic and pathogenic microorganisms. Ninety samples, including Rayeb, yogurt, and cheese, were analyzed. The samples were collected randomly from different localities in Assiut city, Egypt. All microorganisms were isolated in corresponding media, and the resulting colonies were purified through repeated subculture. They were preliminarily identified based on Gram staining, morphology, and biochemical tests. Molecular identification was then performed using PCR. The results obtained showed that the occurrence of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, Enterococcus, Salmonella, E. coli and S. aureus was 46.7%, 33.3%, 30%, 05, 0% and 46.7% for Rayeb, 13.3%, 20%, 33.3%, 10%, 0 % and 26.7% for yogurt and 26.7%, 0%, 6.66%, 30%, 20% and 70% for Karish cheese. PCR screening revealed that Rayeb contained 66.67, 0, 0, 0, 0 and 37.5, and yogurt contains 36.36, 0, 0, 0, 0 and 0, and Karish cheese 54.54, 0, 9.5, 22.22, 83.33, and 0 for Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, MRSA, Salmonella, E. coli, and Enterococcus, respectively. Two representative lactic acid-containing samples from each product were sequenced, and sequencing revealed the presence of Enterococcus faecium strain R21 with accession number (PX661676) and Lactobacillus plantarum SN13T with accession number (PX661677) from Rayeb, Bacillus cereus Y3 with accession number (PX661678), and Bacillus manliponensis Y11 with accession number (PX661679) from yogurt, and Weissella viridescens K6 (PX661680) and Metabacillus halosaccharovorans K7 with accession number (PX661681).

Development of AuNP-based biosensor as an alternative rapid and sensitive method for detection of Listeria monocytogenes

2026-03-27T21:59:02+02:00

Rapid, accurate, and field-deployable detection methods are essential to prevent outbreaks caused by Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), a major foodborne pathogen associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Conventional detection approaches, including PCR, VITEK-2, and MALDI-TOF/MS, although highly sensitive and specific, typically require 12–24 hours to yield results and depend on sophisticated instrumentation and trained personnel, thereby limiting their on-site applicability. In the present study, we developed a novel colorimetric biosensing platform based on oligonucleotide-functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for the rapid, sensitive, and equipment-free detection of L. monocytogenes. A total of 200 dairy product samples were analyzed using selective culture media, biochemical assays, automated identification systems, molecular techniques, and the proposed AuNP–oligonucleotide probe biosensor. Of the nine presumptive L. monocytogenes isolates, six (66.7%) were confirmed by VITEK-2, MALDI-TOF, PCR, and AuNP-based biosensing. The developed AuNP biosensor demonstrated exceptional analytical performance, achieving a detection limit of 10 pg/µL and 100% specificity in discriminating L. monocytogenes from non-target bacterial species. The localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) response of the AuNPs exhibited a characteristic absorption peak within the 520–530 nm range, confirming successful target hybridization. This innovative AuNP-based optical biosensing system provides a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective alternative for L. monocytogenes detection, bridging the gap between conventional molecular diagnostics and field-based applications. The platform shows significant potential for integration into food safety surveillance programs and clinical diagnostic workflows.

Economic values of production and functional traits in Egyptian buffalo

2026-01-17T18:25:06+02:00

This investigation was carried out to estimate the economic values (EVs) of production and functional traits of Egyptian buffalo to determine relative importance breeding objectives in Egyptian buffalo to design breeding programs for genetic improvement. Bioeconomic model with socioeconomic questionnaire of eight farms was used to estimate the EVs. The breeding objective involved milk production (MP), fat production (FP), lactation length (LL), longevity (L), age at first calving (AFC), calving interval (CL), clinical mastitis (CM) and stillbirth (SB). The economic value of MP, FP, LL, L, AFC, CI, CM, and SB was 0.33, 3.07, 3.56, 0.174, -0.34, -2.12, -38.59 and -8.01 US$, respectively. The highest emphasis on traits in the estimated EVs of the current study was LL (31.41%). It was followed by MY (29.45%), FY (22.78%), CM (11.71%), CI (3.36%), L (0.675), SB (0.0.589%) and AFC (0.019%). This investigation showed that 50% of those studied traits (production traits) positively influenced profitability, and the other 50% (functional traits) negatively influenced profitability. The current study revealed the importance of economic values for production and functional traits in Egyptian buffalo that enable farmers and producers to adjust their selection programs to achieve the highest profitability.

Potential role of platelet rich plasma (PRP) to improve bovine semen quality: A review

2026-01-02T15:50:59+02:00

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a biological innovation increasingly being researched in animal reproduction due to its content of various growth factors, cytokines, and bioactive components that support cellular activity. In male reproduction, the use of PRP has begun to attract attention due to its ability to improve bovine semen quality, particularly in artificial insemination and cryopreservation procedures that often reduce sperm motility, viability, and membrane integrity. This review aimed to compile an up-to-date summary of the mechanism of action of PRP in maintaining and improving bovine semen quality while also examining published experimental findings. Physiologically, PRP releases growth factors, including PDGF, TGF-β, IGF, and VEGF, which play a key role in cell regeneration, membrane stability, and reducing oxidative stress. This process is believed to create a more supportive microenvironment for spermatozoa, increase their resistance to damage during storage and freezing, and improve semen parameters such as progressive motility, plasma membrane integrity, and fertilization ability. Although most studies report positive results, differences in PRP preparation techniques, concentrations, and application methods still contribute to variations in research results. Therefore, this review emphasizes the need for standardized protocols and further studies to ensure the effectiveness and safety of PRP use in bovine reproductive practices. With more targeted methods, PRP has the potential to become a new biological agent that can improve reproductive performance and the efficiency of insemination programs.

Life inside the cell: A modern review of cellular physiology and molecular regulation

2026-01-02T15:57:17+02:00

Cell physiology is fundamental to all life processes, as every biological function depends on molecular regulation and organelle dynamics within cells. Advances in technology, such as high-resolution microscopy, multi-omic approaches, and genome engineering, have revealed new complexities in how cells process information, maintain homeostasis, and respond to stress. This review aims to summarize recent developments in the understanding of cell physiology, molecular regulation, and their implications for health and disease. Cell architecture, including eukaryotic compartmentalization and cytoskeletal dynamics, determines the coordination of signal transduction, metabolism, and adaptive responses. Major pathways such as MAPK, PI3K/AKT, NF-κB, and mTOR integrate environmental signals to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Genetic and epigenetic regulation, including transcription factor activity, histone modifications, and ncRNA, provides layered control that ensures precise gene expression. At the protein level, the proteostasis system involving chaperones, proteasomes, and autophagy maintains protein quality and prevents toxic aggregation. The dynamics of organelles, mitochondria, ER, and lysosomes regulate energy, protein folding, and metabolism through complex cross-organelle interactions. Stress responses such as the heat shock response, unfolded protein response, and the NRF2 antioxidant pathway enable cells to adapt to disturbances in homeostasis. The integration of molecular signaling, genetic regulation, proteostasis, and organelle dynamics demonstrates that cell physiology is a highly coordinated regulatory network. Although much progress has been made, the spatio-temporal relationships between pathways and the long-term effects of environmental stress remain important gaps in our knowledge. This understanding opens new avenues for basic research and cell-based therapy development.

The AMPK–mTOR axis as a central regulator of cellular metabolism and physiology

2026-01-02T16:00:17+02:00

The AMPK–mTOR axis is a central regulator of cellular metabolism that balances catabolic and anabolic pathways according to energy, nutrient, and growth factor status. AMPK acts as an energy sensor, activated when the AMP/ATP ratio increases, which promotes fatty acid oxidation, glucose uptake, and autophagy while suppressing protein synthesis, lipogenesis, and cell proliferation. In contrast, mTORC1 integrates nutrient and growth factor signals to promote protein synthesis, organelle biogenesis, and cell growth when environmental conditions are favorable. The dynamic interplay between AMPK and mTOR enables cells to maintain energy balance, regulate growth and metabolism, and preserve the integrity of their organelles. AMPK–mTOR axis dysregulation has been associated with a number of clinical illnesses, such as cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and chronic inflammation. Over-activation of mTORC1 or insufficient AMPK activation can result in insulin resistance, lipid buildup, reduced autophagy, and aberrant cell survival and proliferation. On the other hand, medication or lifestyle changes like mTOR inhibitors, AMPK activators, intermittent fasting, or exercise can help rebalance these pathways, enhance organ function, and lower the chance of disease development. This review aimed to summarize the molecular mechanisms of the AMPK–mTOR axis, its role in cellular metabolism and physiology, and its implications for the therapy of metabolic diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. An in-depth knowledge of AMPK–mTOR interactions can serve as the foundation for the creation of precision treatment plans that maintain energy homeostasis in both healthy and diseased states, balance catabolic and anabolic pathways, and improve cellular adaptability.

Vaccination and disease prevention protocols for pets: A review

2026-01-02T16:02:22+02:00

Vaccination and disease prevention strategies are essential interventions for maintaining the health of companion animals and reducing the risk of zoonotic disease transmission to humans. The effectiveness of these programs relies on the proper implementation of vaccination protocols, environmental management, parasite control, nutritional support, and owner education. This review summarizes current vaccination protocols and complementary non-vaccination preventive measures for dogs and cats. It outlines the classification of core and non-core vaccines, vaccination schedules for puppies and adult animals, booster recommendations, and factors influencing immunization efficacy. Recent advancements in vaccine development, such as recombinant and mRNA-based technologies, are also discussed for their potential to enhance safety and immunogenicity. Beyond vaccination, this review addresses non-immunization preventive strategies, including kennel hygiene and environmental sanitation, biosecurity in veterinary and boarding facilities, ecto- and endoparasite management, and nutritional approaches to strengthen immune function. Owner education is emphasized as a critical component in improving compliance with vaccination schedules and preventive health practices. The review concludes that integrating vaccination with non-vaccination preventive measures strengthens both individual and herd immunity, reduces the incidence of infectious diseases, and minimizes zoonotic risks. Current challenges include pathogen variation, inconsistent owner compliance, regional disparities in vaccination policies, and the ongoing need for safer and more effective vaccines. Advances in vaccine technology and personalized immunization strategies provide new opportunities to improve the efficacy, safety, and sustainability of pet health programs.

Equine Viral Arteritis: Reproductive risks and management strategies in horse populations

2026-01-02T16:05:09+02:00

Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) is an infectious disease in horses caused by Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV), a member of the Arterivirus genus in the Arteriviridae family. This disease has a significant impact on animal health and the horse breeding industry because it can cause systemic viremia, vascular damage, subcutaneous edema, abortion in pregnant mares, and persistent infection in adult stallions. Post-pubertal stallions can become androgen-dependent carriers, continuously excreting the virus through semen without showing clinical symptoms, thus acting as the main reservoir and route of venereal transmission. Transmission of the virus also occurs through respiratory and transplacental contact, with the risk of transmission increasing in dense populations, high mobility, and suboptimal reproductive management practices. This review summarizes the latest literature on the characteristics of the virus, epidemiology, pathogenesis, immune response, clinical manifestations, diagnostics, and EVA control strategies. Detection of the virus through RT-qPCR and serological screening is the primary method for identifying acute cases and carriers, while selective vaccination and strict biosecurity measures have proven effective in suppressing the spread of the virus. The immune response to EAV involves innate and adaptive mechanisms, including the activation of macrophages, T cells, and the production of neutralizing antibodies, although it is not always able to eliminate the virus in the reproductive tissues of males. Overall, EVA control requires a multidimensional approach that integrates vaccination, carrier monitoring, reproductive management, and biosecurity. This information is important to support prevention strategies, outbreak control, and animal health policies in the global equine industry.

Canine Distemper Virus: A persistent threat to domestic and wild carnivores

2026-01-02T21:18:45+02:00

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a major causative agent of the disease, causing a contagious infection with high morbidity and mortality in dogs and various wild carnivores. The virus, belonging to the genus Morbillivirus (family Paramyxoviridae), exhibits extensive interspecies adaptation, potentially threatening the health of both domestic animals and protected wildlife populations. Distemper infection causes multisystem disorders, including those affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems, and induces severe immunosuppression, increasing susceptibility to additional infections. Although vaccination has successfully reduced the incidence in some regions, CDV remains prevalent worldwide, particularly in areas with low vaccination coverage and large feral dog populations. Advances in molecular analysis have enabled the identification of multiple CDV genotypes through variations in the hemagglutinin (H) gene, which plays a key role in virus binding to the host and influences virulence. This ongoing genetic variation poses challenges to the effectiveness of existing vaccines. Furthermore, the spread of CDV to various wildlife species, such as wolves, civets, and lions, further complicates disease control from a One Health perspective. This review comprehensively outlined the virology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic methods, and prevention and control measures for CDV. A more comprehensive understanding of the biology and distribution patterns of CDV is expected to support the development of sustainable animal health policies and strengthen conservation efforts for vulnerable species globally.

Koi Herpesvirus Disease: Current knowledge and future perspectives in aquaculture health

2026-01-02T22:20:08+02:00

Koi Herpesvirus Disease (KHVD) is a highly contagious viral disease of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and koi, caused by Cyprinid herpesvirus 3 (CyHV-3). This disease can cause high mortality, especially in young fish, significantly impacting the global fisheries economy. KHVD is typically characterized by epithelial lesions on the gills, skin ulcerations, kidney damage, and basophilic intranuclear inclusions in epithelial cells, a hallmark of active infection. Clinical symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, impaired swimming behavior, gill hyperemia, excessive mucus production, and skin discoloration. Diagnosis of KHVD requires a combination of methods. Clinical and histopathological examinations can provide early indications, while serological and molecular detection methods such as PCR or qPCR are used to confirm acute and latent infections, including in asymptomatic carriers. Key risk factors include fish age, optimal water temperature for the virus (18–28°C), population density, environmental quality, and culture practices. Fish that survive infection can become latent carriers and potentially transmit the virus again, exacerbating the disease outbreak. Controlling KHVD requires an integrated strategy, including biosecurity, quarantine of new fish, management of density and water quality, and vaccination using live attenuated, inactivated, or subunit/DNA vaccines. This strategy aims to suppress virus spread, increase fish survival, and minimize economic losses. A thorough understanding of the pathology, epidemiology, and transmission mechanisms of KHVD is essential for effective and sustainable disease management in carp and koi aquaculture.

Effectivity of bacteriophage therapy against Streptococcus agalactiae in Tilapia: A systematic review

2026-01-06T07:32:16+02:00

Streptococcus agalactiae infection remains one of the most significant bacterial diseases affecting tilapia, leading to substantial economic losses in global aquaculture. Increasing antibiotic resistance has prompted the need for sustainable and effective alternatives such as bacteriophage therapy. This study aims to systematically review and synthesise the current evidence regarding the efficacy of bacteriophage therapy in controlling Streptococcus agalactiae infections in tilapia. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar to identify studies published between 2001 and May 2025. Eligible studies were selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria based on the PICO framework. Relevant data were extracted on phage morphology, host specificity, growth kinetics, physicochemical stability, and therapeutic efficacy. The methodological quality and potential risk of bias of the included studies were evaluated using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool. A total of 6 studies matched with our framework were obtained from 2013 to 2024, describing 10 bacteriophages with potential as therapeutic agents against Streptococcus agalactiae infections in tilapia. All identified phages belonged to the class Caudoviricetes, comprising 7 Siphoviridae, 2 Myoviridae, and 1 unclassified phage. Phages were isolated from several sources, including infected tilapia (3 isolates), rearing pond water (6 isolates), and milk from a mastitis-infected cow (1 isolate). Reported growth kinetics showed burst sizes ranging from 20 to 1,236 PFU per cell, with multiplicity of infection (MOI) values between 0.01 and 0.1. The phages were generally stable below 30°C and at pH around 8. These characteristics and combined with their high host specificity indicate promising potential for phage therapy in tilapia combating Streptococcus agalactiae. The included studies demonstrated a low risk of bias in reporting and attrition domains. However, it remained unclear in selection, performance, and detection domains due to limited methodological details. Bacteriophages from Caudoviricetes reported in this study show promising potential as environmentally friendly options for controlling S. agalactiae infections in tilapia. Future work should focus on standardizing experimental procedures, improving reporting quality, and increasing in vivo testing under real aquaculture conditions.

The role of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) virulence genes in Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) cases in cats

2026-01-11T18:43:58+02:00

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common urogenital disease in cats, with uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) being the primary cause. UPEC originates from the normal gastrointestinal flora but is opportunistic, possessing the ability to adhere, invade, and persist in the urinary tract, leading to recurrent infections and clinical complications. These infections can range from mild to severe, including dysuria, hematuria, pollakiuria, stranguria, and urinary retention. The prevalence of UTI in cats varies across countries, ranging from 17.5–46.5%, with UPEC being the dominant pathogen. UPEC virulence is determined by genes encoding adhesion factors (fimA, pap, sfa, and csgA), iron acquisition systems (ent, fyuA, and iutA), outer membrane proteins (OmpA), and toxins (hly and cnf1), which support colonization, biofilm formation, invasiveness, and tissue damage. These virulence mechanisms allow the bacteria to survive urinary flow, pH, and host immune defenses, as well as to form intracellular bacterial communities and dormant reservoirs, increasing the risk of persistent and difficult-to-treat infections. In addition to its impact on feline health, UPEC also has zoonotic potential due to its close interaction with humans and the presence of antimicrobial resistance factors. Therefore, identifying UPEC virulence genes is crucial for understanding the pathogenesis of UTIs in cats and anticipating the risk of transmission to humans. This study reviews the scientific evidence regarding the distribution of UPEC virulence genes in cats, their implications for clinical infection, and the urgency of a One Health approach to infection prevention, diagnosis, and control. Understanding UPEC genetics provides the basis for more effective therapeutic strategies, the development of antibacterial interventions, and the mitigation of zoonotic risk.

The role of dogs and cats as reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance: A molecular and epidemiological review with focus on Southeast Asian context

2026-01-11T18:41:19+02:00

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasingly complex global threat that transcends the boundaries of the human health sector. Within the One Health framework, companion animals such as dogs and cats are receiving increased attention due to their close proximity to humans and their potential role as reservoirs of resistant bacteria. Intense interactions in domestic environments, antibiotic exposure in veterinary clinical practice, and linkages with environmental factors make companion animals an integral part of the AMR epidemiological network. This review aims to comprehensively examine the role of dogs and cats as reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance, with emphasis on molecular characterization of resistance genes and identification of environmental risk factors that contribute to their dissemination. This article discusses key findings related to the most frequently reported resistance genes in commensal and pathogenic bacteria from companion animals, including genes associated with resistance to β-lactams, tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, and fluoroquinolones. Furthermore, molecular mechanisms such as the involvement of mobile genetic elements and phylogenetic relatedness among isolates from animals and humans are analysed to assess the potential for cross-host transmission. Environmental risk factors, including antibiotic use practices, household sanitation, animal population density, and intensity of human-animal contact, are discussed as important determinants in maintaining and spreading antimicrobial resistance. These findings indicate that dogs and cats not only serve as passive hosts, but also as active components in the ecology of AMR. Overall, this review affirms the need to integrate companion animals into One Health-based surveillance strategies, control measures, and antimicrobial resistance policies to sustainably reduce public health risks.