Veterinary Sciences

16 pages, 1680 KB

Open AccessArticle

Endocannabinoid System Regulation in Pyometra-Affected and Healthy Canine Uteri

by Anıl Gürkan Aksu, Volkan Ferahoğlu, Fatih Büyükbudak, Isil Unaldi, Aykut Gram, Murat Fındık and Serhan Serhat Ay

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100934 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2025

Abstract

Pyometra is a frequent and life-threatening reproductive disorder in bitches, characterized by profound immune and inflammatory responses within the uterus. The endocannabinoid system (eCS) is a key modulator of immune regulation, tissue homeostasis, and inflammation; however, its role in canine uterine physiology and [...] Read more.

Pyometra is a frequent and life-threatening reproductive disorder in bitches, characterized by profound immune and inflammatory responses within the uterus. The endocannabinoid system (eCS) is a key modulator of immune regulation, tissue homeostasis, and inflammation; however, its role in canine uterine physiology and pathology remains unexplored. This study aimed to characterize the presence and regulation of eCS components in the uterus of healthy and pyometra-affected dogs. Twenty-eight bitches were categorized into four groups: closed-cervix pyometra (CP; n = 7), open-cervix pyometra (OP; n = 7), diestrus (DE; n = 7), and anestrus (AE; n = 7). Uterine tissues were obtained by ovariohysterectomy. Serum progesterone, anandamide (AEA), and 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) concentrations were quantified, while the uterine expression of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) was assessed using real-time PCR and localized by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Serum AEA levels were significantly reduced in CP compared with AE (p = 0.017), whereas 2-AG differences did not reach significance (p = 0.072). Both CB1 and CB2 were consistently expressed across all groups, with IHC revealing receptor-specific patterns within uterine compartments. Collectively, these findings demonstrate for the first time that the canine uterus possesses a functional eCS, and that its modulation is linked to reproductive physiology and pyometra-associated inflammatory processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics)

9 pages, 512 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Prednisolone Treatment on Serum Bile Acid Concentrations in Cats

by Militsa Pacheva, Daniel Brugger, Barbara Riond and Peter Hendrik Kook

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100933 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2025

Abstract

While corticosteroids affect bile acid metabolism in humans and dogs, their impact on serum bile acids in cats is unknown. Moreover, the early effects of corticosteroids on liver enzyme activity in cats are not well understood. We prospectively studied seven healthy cats (4–7 [...] Read more.

While corticosteroids affect bile acid metabolism in humans and dogs, their impact on serum bile acids in cats is unknown. Moreover, the early effects of corticosteroids on liver enzyme activity in cats are not well understood. We prospectively studied seven healthy cats (4–7 years) treated with oral prednisolone (1.1–1.5 mg/kg, median 1.28 mg/kg PO daily) for 7 days. Serum bile acids and liver enzyme activities (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT) were measured before treatment (day 0) and at days 2, 3, 8, 10, and 14. Statistical analysis used the Friedman test with post hoc comparisons to baseline. At baseline, bile acids were within reference interval (1–6.5 μmol/L) (median 2.1 μmol/L, range 1–3.2) and increased significantly during treatment with prednisolone to a median of 5.3 μmol/L (range 1.8–8.7) at d8, but remained below clinically abnormal levels. In contrast, AST, ALT, and ALP activities decreased significantly during prednisolone administration. GGT activities were undetectable at all times. We conclude that, although prednisolone significantly affected bile acids, the effect is likely of limited clinical relevance, as increases were minimal and remained below thresholds considered abnormal. Unexpectedly, transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activities decreased in the first days after administration. The reasons for this remain unclear. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Gastrointestinal Tract, Liver and Pancreas in Dogs and Cats)

14 pages, 1670 KB

Open AccessArticle

Infectious Bronchitis Virus Activates the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor During In Vitro Infection

by Mingjing Zhang, Zhichao Cai, Hongliu An, Rong He, Songbai Zhang and Shouguo Fang

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100932 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Coronaviruses, including avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), utilize host cellular pathways to evade the host immune response. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a key antiviral regulator exploited by mammalian coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2, remains unclear in avian coronavirus pathogenesis. This study examined AhR’s involvement [...] Read more.

Coronaviruses, including avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), utilize host cellular pathways to evade the host immune response. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a key antiviral regulator exploited by mammalian coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2, remains unclear in avian coronavirus pathogenesis. This study examined AhR’s involvement during IBV infection using H1299 and Vero cells with pharmacological modulation (AhR antagonist CH223191/agonist kynurenine) and shRNA-mediated silencing. Viral replication was quantified through plaque assays, qRT-PCR, and Western blot. The results reveal IBV-induced AhR activation, driving downstream CYP1A1 expression and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. CH223191 treatment reduced IBV titers, RNA loads, and N protein expression dose-dependently, while kynurenine showed no effect. AhR knockdown similarly reduced N protein expression, confirming its proviral role. An IBV-encoded noncoding RNA was identified as a modulator of AhR activation, suggesting viral balancing of immune evasion and replication efficiency. These results establish AhR as a conserved host factor co-opted by IBV, and highlight AhR antagonism as a promising therapeutic strategy. By bridging insights from avian and mammalian coronaviruses, this work informs strategies to address IBV’s genetic variability and supports development of broad-spectrum antiviral therapies. Full article

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10 pages, 506 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Campylobacter spp. Isolated from Cattle in Mongolia

by Erdenebat Bulgan, Zolzaya Byambajav, Batsukh Naranchimeg, Batsaikhan Chantsal, Tsognemekh Bolormaa, Badrakh Sandagdorj, Purevdorj Nyam-Osor, Eisaku Kikuchi, Akio Suzuki, Jirachaya Toyting-Hiraishi, Toyotaka Sato and Motohiro Horiuchi

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100931 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Poultry and cattle are the major reservoirs of Campylobacter infection in humans. However, no information is available on Campylobacter spp. in cattle in Mongolia. Thus, this study aimed to assess their prevalence and antimicrobial resistance. Between 2019 and 2023, rectal swabs were collected [...] Read more.

Poultry and cattle are the major reservoirs of Campylobacter infection in humans. However, no information is available on Campylobacter spp. in cattle in Mongolia. Thus, this study aimed to assess their prevalence and antimicrobial resistance. Between 2019 and 2023, rectal swabs were collected from cattle on dairy farms around Ulaanbaatar city and in total, 35 Campylobacter spp., including 23 C. jejuni, 7 C. hyointestinalis, 4 C. fetus, and 1 C. lari, were isolated. Multilocus sequence typing of C. jejuni cattle isolates revealed substantial genetic diversity and identified 7 sequence types (STs) including ST61, which is known to be associated with cattle and sheep. Interestingly, the antimicrobial resistance patterns of the C. jejuni cattle isolates completely differed from those of previously reported chicken isolates. Excluding one ciprofloxacin-resistant isolate, all isolates were susceptible to tetracycline and ciprofloxacin. This is the first report on the characterization of Campylobacter spp. in cattle in Mongolia. Although no official statistics of human campylobacteriosis are currently available in Mongolia, data on Campylobacter spp. in food-producing animals represent valuable information for investigating potential sources and infection routes to humans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Food Safety and Zoonosis)

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20 pages, 8127 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unraveling Spermatogenesis in Molly Fish (Poecilia sphenops): An Integrative Study of Testicular Ultrastructure and Immunohistochemistry

by Doaa M. Mokhtar, Giacomo Zaccone, Marialuisa Aragona, Maria Cristina Guerrera, Rasha Alonizan and Manal T. Hussein

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100930 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Spermatogenesis in teleosts is essential for reproductive function; however, it varies considerably among species. The testis of the viviparous molly fish (Poecilia sphenops) was examined using both ultrastructural and immunohistochemical methods. The testis displays a restricted lobular type, where germ cells [...] Read more.

Spermatogenesis in teleosts is essential for reproductive function; however, it varies considerably among species. The testis of the viviparous molly fish (Poecilia sphenops) was examined using both ultrastructural and immunohistochemical methods. The testis displays a restricted lobular type, where germ cells develop synchronously within Sertoli cell-forming cysts. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed all stages of spermatogenesis. Mature sperm are at the apex of the cysts and migrate toward the sperm ducts. Sperm duct epithelium is lined by cuboidal cells joined by tight junctions, with apical cilia and desmosomal complexes contributing to transport and structural integrity. The sperm ducts showed strong Periodic Acid–Schiff (PAS)-positive expression among negative stained spermatocysts. Centrally, a cavity serves as a storage area for spermatozoa that are organized into unencapsulated bundles known as spermatozeugmata. Sertoli cells exhibited extended cytoplasmic processes that supported developing germ cells, whereas Leydig cells occupied the interstitial tissue, contributing to hormonal regulation. Immunohistochemical labeling demonstrated strong vimentin expression in Sertoli cells and telocytes, indicating their mesenchymal origin and structural role. Calretinin expression was confined to Leydig cells and certain ductal epithelial cells, supporting its use as a marker for steroidogenic and secretory functions. These findings provide new insights into the testicular specialization of P. sphenops, highlighting key somatic–germ cell interactions, ductal adaptations, and marker expression patterns that underlie male reproductive success in viviparous fish. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Anatomy, Histology and Pathology)

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14 pages, 276 KB

Open AccessArticle

Isolation and Characterization Through Whole-Genome Sequencing of STEC Strains from Free-Ranging Red Deer

by Stefania Lauzi, Rosangela Tozzoli, Paola Chiani, Matteo Nava, Arnold Knijn, Valeria Michelacci, Stefano Giacomelli, Gaia Scavia, Stefano Morabito and Camilla Luzzago

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100929 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Whole-genome sequence (WGS) analysis was used in this study to characterize Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) isolates in free-ranging red deer from the central Italian Alps. Fecal samples from 92 hunted red deer collected between September and December 2022 were analyzed for the [...] Read more.

Whole-genome sequence (WGS) analysis was used in this study to characterize Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) isolates in free-ranging red deer from the central Italian Alps. Fecal samples from 92 hunted red deer collected between September and December 2022 were analyzed for the presence of STEC. Single E. coli colonies positive by PCR for stx genes were analyzed by WGS. STEC were isolated from eleven (12%) samples, showing eight stx2b, one stx2a, two stx1c, and one stx1a subtypes. Different serotypes and sequence types were identified (n = 8 each). Three isolates of O27:H30 serotype and ST753 showed no correlation in the cgMLST analysis (AD range 44–98). All strains harbored additional virulence factors. The only isolate harboring stx2a also possessed the eae gene and belonged to serotype O26:H11. Some isolates displayed shuffled virulence features of more than one E. coli pathotype. The high genetic diversity of strains circulating in the red deer population living in the central Italian Alps, including the STEC O26:H11 strain associated with STEC from severe disease in humans, confirms red deer as STEC reservoirs and highlights the need for monitoring the presence of these pathogens in wild ruminants. Full article

13 pages, 886 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Acute Immune Response in Sheep Following Immunization with Toxoplasma gondii Tachyzoites or Parasite-Derived Glycoconjugates

by Patrícia Oliveira Meira-Santos, Gabriela Cruz Piedade, Maria Tereza Guedes, Dan Loureiro, José Tadeu Raynal, Roberto Meyer, Letícia Vicentini, Luiz Soares, Blima Fux and Ricardo Wagner Portela

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100928 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a relevant parasitic infection in sheep, with ovine meat an important source of human exposure. Accurate detection of the early immune response to Toxoplasma gondii is essential for preventing reproductive losses and improving diagnostic strategies. This study evaluated the kinetics of [...] Read more.

Toxoplasmosis is a relevant parasitic infection in sheep, with ovine meat an important source of human exposure. Accurate detection of the early immune response to Toxoplasma gondii is essential for preventing reproductive losses and improving diagnostic strategies. This study evaluated the kinetics of the acute immune response in eighteen sheep experimentally exposed to live tachyzoites or immunized with parasite-derived glycoconjugates (GlyC). Animals were divided into three groups and injected with saline solution, tachyzoites, or glycoconjugates combined with an adjuvant. Infected sheep developed specific IgM antibodies against both lysate and glycoconjugate antigens from day 4, and IgG against glycoconjugates from day 12 post-infection. Glycoconjugate-immunized sheep produced IgM against lysate antigens from day 4, and IgG against both antigens from day 12. Flow cytometry revealed a significant increase in circulating CD8+ T cells and a reduction in MHC class II+ cells on day 60 in the infected group. These findings demonstrate the early humoral and cellular immune response profiles following infection or GlyC immunization. This supports their future application in diagnostic tests or as vaccine candidates against toxoplasmosis in sheep. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Detection of Parasitic Diseases in Livestock)

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18 pages, 304 KB

Open AccessArticle

Organic Glycinate Trace Minerals Improve Hatchability, Bone and Eggshell Breaking Strength, and Mineral Uptake During Late Laying Cycle in Layer Breeders

by Mujtaba Akram Jahangir, Muhammad Muneeb, Muhammad Farooq Iqbal, Syeda Maryam Hussain, Syed Sohail Habib, Sohail Ahmad, Kasim Sakran Abass, Nasir Mukhtar, Rashed A. Alhotan, Ali R. Al Sulaiman and Ala E. Abudabos

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100927 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of replacing inorganic trace minerals with organic glycinate forms at two inclusion levels in layer breeders during the late laying cycle over 6 weeks (66 to 72 weeks of age). For this, a total of 180 layer breeders [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effects of replacing inorganic trace minerals with organic glycinate forms at two inclusion levels in layer breeders during the late laying cycle over 6 weeks (66 to 72 weeks of age). For this, a total of 180 layer breeders (162 hens and 18 males; Lohmann LSL Ultralite) were randomly divided into three treatment groups having six replicates of nine hens each and one male for each replicate following a completely randomized design (CRD). The dietary treatments included: (1) Basal diet + inorganic trace minerals at breed recommended levels (ITM100), (2) Basal diet + organic trace minerals at recommended levels (OTM100), (3) Basal diet + organic trace minerals at half dose of recommended levels (OTM50). The trace mineral contents in the samples (feed, bone, and excreta) were determined through inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. The results indicated that glycinate minerals supplementation at half dose enhanced (p ≤ 0.05) tibial breaking strength compared to the inorganic minerals (38.97 vs. 29.55 MPa). Similarly, egg quality (egg geometry, yolk index, eggshell properties), and hatching traits (hatchability and fertility) were enhanced (p ≤ 0.05) following the use of glycinate organic minerals as compared to inorganic minerals. Copper deposition was higher (p ≤ 0.05) in the OTM100 as compared to other groups. Excreta levels of zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) were higher (p ≤ 0.05) in the ITM100 group compared to OTM100 and OTM50. In conclusion, supplementation of glycinate trace organic minerals to layer breeder hens during the late laying cycle had enhanced the bone and eggshell breaking strength, hatching traits, and absorption of certain trace minerals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Health of Monogastric Animals)

17 pages, 1443 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Priming Canine Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells with CBD-Rich Cannabis Extract Modulates Neurotrophic Factors Expression Profile

by Vinicius Skau Perino, Lucas Vinícius de Oliveira Ferreira, Beatriz da Costa Kamura, Natielly Dias Chimenes, Alisson Vinícius Gimenes Olbera, Thiago Tourinho Pereira, Aline Márcia Marques Braz, Marjorie de Assis Golim, Márcio de Carvalho and Rogério Martins Amorim

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100926 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

The endocannabinoid system regulates key biological functions such as neuroprotection, pain modulation, inflammation, and immunomodulation. Cannabis-based therapies have gained attention due to the therapeutic potential of their bioactive compounds, particularly phytocannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD), which exhibit anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. Mesenchymal stem [...] Read more.

The endocannabinoid system regulates key biological functions such as neuroprotection, pain modulation, inflammation, and immunomodulation. Cannabis-based therapies have gained attention due to the therapeutic potential of their bioactive compounds, particularly phytocannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD), which exhibit anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely studied for their regenerative and immunomodulatory potential. This study evaluated the effects of priming canine adipose tissue-derived MSCs (cAT-MSCs) with a CBD-rich cannabis extract on cell morphology, viability, neurotrophic factor gene expression, and cytokine gene and protein expression. cAT-MSCs (n = 5) were primed for 24 h and divided into three groups: Control (C, unprimed), D1 (2.25 µM CBD), and D2 (225 nM CBD). No morphological or viability changes were observed. Gene expression analysis showed that groups D1 and D2 exhibited increased HGF expression. D1 also showed increased IDO and decreased BDNF expression. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in GDNF, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ, or PTGES2. Regarding the cytokine profile, GM-CSF, IL-2, and IL-10 were undetectable. Notably, IL-8 and MCP-1 levels were significantly reduced in D1 compared to the control. These findings suggest that CBD priming modulates key regenerative and inflammatory mediators in cAT-MSCs, supporting its potential application in enhancing the efficacy of cell-based therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Anesthesia and Analgesia Management: Pain Relief and Sedation)

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17 pages, 296 KB

Open AccessArticle

Socio-Psychological and External Factors Influencing Biosecurity Compliance in U.S. Poultry Farming

by Pedro Moura, Susanne Küker, Morgan Farnell, Julie Stowell-Moss, Jimmy Tickel, Patrik Buholzer and Heather L. Simmons

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100925 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Understanding why poultry farmers follow or neglect biosecurity practices is key to improving communication about the control of infectious and notifiable diseases like avian influenza. This study explored how socio-psychological, demographic, and contextual factors influence biosecurity compliance among U.S. poultry farmers. A questionnaire [...] Read more.

Understanding why poultry farmers follow or neglect biosecurity practices is key to improving communication about the control of infectious and notifiable diseases like avian influenza. This study explored how socio-psychological, demographic, and contextual factors influence biosecurity compliance among U.S. poultry farmers. A questionnaire distributed at a poultry industry event yielded 67 responses from farmers, which were analyzed using a multivariable logistic regression with backward elimination. The predictors of high biosecurity tested included perceived outbreak impact, farming experience, and reliance on different information sources to form opinions on disease control. The final model showed that farmers who perceived that a disease outbreak would have a low impact were significantly less likely to follow strict biosecurity measures than those perceiving a higher impact (OR = 0.19, 95% CI [0.036, 0.925]). While compliance with biosecurity was high for most participants, certain practices, such as limiting flock outdoor access or contact with wild birds, were less commonly applied. Further research is needed to identify neglected biosecurity practices and the barriers to their implementation. Notable variations in farmers’ engagement with information sources suggest that communication strategies should involve trusted intermediaries to enhance risk awareness and biosecurity implementation support. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Education, Veterinary Communication and Animal Behavior)

14 pages, 8864 KB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibition of Retinoic Acid Receptor Gamma Improves Bovine Embryo Development

by Xiangyan Wang, Wenjing Wan, Yue Su, Shengcan Xie, Fenfen Jiang, Zhen Yang, Shuangyi Xiehe, Wei Ma, Linxiu Yue, Ningxiao Li, Ahui Wang, Jintong Guo, Xiaoting Li, Xinfeng Liu and Young Tang

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100924 - 24 Sep 2025

Abstract

Retinoic acid receptor gamma (RARγ) plays a critical but poorly understood role in early embryo development and stem cell pluripotency. Here, we investigated the effects of the RARγ-specific inhibitor LY2955303 (LY) on in vitro-produced bovine embryos. Treatment with LY significantly increased blastocyst rates [...] Read more.

Retinoic acid receptor gamma (RARγ) plays a critical but poorly understood role in early embryo development and stem cell pluripotency. Here, we investigated the effects of the RARγ-specific inhibitor LY2955303 (LY) on in vitro-produced bovine embryos. Treatment with LY significantly increased blastocyst rates and quality, demonstrating its potential to enhance IVF outcomes in cattle. Single-embryo RNA sequencing using Smart-seq indicated that LY promotes metabolic reprogramming (upregulating glycolysis and TCA cycle activity) while suppressing apoptosis and inflammatory responses. LY treatment starting from the 16-cell stage led to enhanced glycolysis in blastocysts compared with exposure from the 2-cell stage. Furthermore, LY treatment also upregulated oxidative phosphorylation in bovine embryonic stem cells (ESCs). These findings establish RARγ as an important regulator of bovine embryo development, with its inhibition offering a novel strategy to optimize IVF embryo culture systems for livestock production. Full article

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0 pages, 4713 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Variation Analysis and Research on Biological Characteristics of Duck Hepatitis Virus Type 3: A Comparison Between Historical Strains in Yunnan and Recent Epidemic Strains

by Sixian Lan, Aiguo Xin, Ke Li, Zhengju Yuan, Rong Zhao, Zhishun Chang, Wengui Li and Hongya Yan

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 923; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100923 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

Duck viral hepatitis, caused by Duck Hepatitis A Virus Type 3 (DHAV-3), remains a major threat to young ducklings. Although DHAV-3 has circulated in China since the 1999s, the complete genomic architecture, exact virulence parameters, and evolutionary distance between early Yunnan isolates and [...] Read more.

Duck viral hepatitis, caused by Duck Hepatitis A Virus Type 3 (DHAV-3), remains a major threat to young ducklings. Although DHAV-3 has circulated in China since the 1999s, the complete genomic architecture, exact virulence parameters, and evolutionary distance between early Yunnan isolates and current field strains have remained undefined. This study investigated six DHAV-3 strains isolated in Yunnan Province, China, between 2004 and 2006, to elucidate their genetic and biological characteristics. Full-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed >99.5% nucleotide and >99.6% amino acid identity among the strains, suggesting a common ancestral origin. In vivo challenge assays showed rapid onset of clinical signs and >90% mortality in ducklings within 36 h post-inoculation. Embryonic deaths began at 24 h post-infection and peaked by 90 h. Viral replication was efficient in DEF, DEK, Vero, and BHK-21 cells, but absent in chicken fibroblasts (DF-1). Comparative genomic analysis between the YN/LR/2005 strain and recent field isolates (2022–2024) revealed substantial nucleotide divergence in structural regions, with 32 unique amino acid substitutions—all five located in the immunodominant VP1 region that may influence viral antigenicity and host interaction—alongside changes in N-glycosylation sites and alterations in protein secondary structure. Histopathological examination confirmed characteristic hepatic lesions. These findings demonstrate that while DHAV-3 has undergone genetic evolution, it retains high virulence, underscoring the need for ongoing molecular surveillance and supporting future vaccine and diagnostic development. Full article

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0 pages, 797 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Determination of H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus Persistence Following a 2024 Backyard Poultry Outbreak in Romania

by Ionica Iancu, Florica Bărbuceanu, Emil Tîrziu, Corina Pascu, Luminița Costinar, Janos Degi, Corina Badea, Alexandru Gligor, Iulia Bucur, Sebastian Alexandru Popa, Maria Gurau and Viorel Herman

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100922 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

In November 2024, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in backyard poultry in Timiș County, Western Romania. The index cases involved chickens and domestic geese found dead with lesions characteristic of HPAI. Laboratory confirmation was achieved by real-time [...] Read more.

In November 2024, an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in backyard poultry in Timiș County, Western Romania. The index cases involved chickens and domestic geese found dead with lesions characteristic of HPAI. Laboratory confirmation was achieved by real-time RT-qPCR targeting the matrix, H5, and N1 genes, followed by virus isolation in embryonated specific-pathogen-free eggs. Sequencing of the hemagglutinin cleavage site revealed the multi-basic motif PLREKRRKR/GLFG, consistent with a highly pathogenic phenotype. To investigate potential viral persistence, tracheal and cloacal swabs were collected from apparently healthy selected backyard poultry (chickens, geese, ducks and pheasants). RNA extraction and RT-qPCR, performed using protocols validated by the European Union Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza, yielded negative results for all samples. Internal controls confirmed assay reliability, excluding the possibility of PCR inhibition. The investigation confirmed the occurrence of HPAI H5N1 in backyard poultry and demonstrated the absence of detectable viral persistence in surrounding flocks under the tested conditions. These findings highlight the importance of rapid molecular diagnostics, active surveillance, and strict biosecurity in limiting virus spread. Continued monitoring under the One Health framework is essential to mitigate the risk of avian influenza at the human–animal–environment interface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Evolution Analysis of Virus Infection in Poultry and Wild Birds—2nd Edition)

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7 pages, 1020 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Extended Survival in a Dog with Primary Bone Hemangiosarcoma Following Treatment with Neoadjuvant Oncolytic Virotherapy and Standard of Care

by Courtney Labé, Andrea Chehadeh, Amber Winter, Sara Pracht, Kathy M. Stuebner, Mitzi Lewellen, Bishoy Eskander, M. Gerard O’Sullivan, Alexandru-Flaviu Tabaran, Christopher Ober, Michael S. Henson, Davis Seelig, Steve J. Russell, Jaime F. Modiano, Shruthi Naik and Kelly M. Makielski

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(10), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12100921 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

A three year old male neutered mixed breed dog presented with a mass on the right carpus and accompanying lameness. A Jamshidi bone biopsy was performed, and histopathology results were consistent with a sarcoma. The dog received oncolytic virotherapy (OV) with vesicular stomatitis [...] Read more.

A three year old male neutered mixed breed dog presented with a mass on the right carpus and accompanying lameness. A Jamshidi bone biopsy was performed, and histopathology results were consistent with a sarcoma. The dog received oncolytic virotherapy (OV) with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) as part of a clinical trial in dogs with osteosarcoma (OSA). Ten days after VSV treatment, the affected limb was amputated, and histopathology was consistent with intramedullary HSA. Considering the new diagnosis, standard doxorubicin chemotherapy was prescribed. With this combination of therapies, the dog had an extended survival of more than seven years and remains alive at the time of writing. This is the first case report documenting OV given in conjunction with the standard of care for canine appendicular HSA. Full article

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Vet. Sci., Volume 12, Issue 10 (October 2025) – 14 articles

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