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Scientists create TB-resistant cows
cow
Scientists used a gene editing tool to insert a mouse gene into the genome of cattle.
Mouse gene could hold the key to TB control

Scientists in China have managed to develop 13 genetically-modified cows that are resistant to TB infection.

Using a gene editing tool called TALEN, scientists from the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture were able to insert the mouse gene SP110 - which was already believed to offer protection against TB - into the genome of Holstein-Friesian cattle.

In total, 23 transgenic cattle were produced and 13 of these survived into adulthood. According to the research paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), these cattle showed increased resistance to bovine TB.

Mycobacterium bovis was introduced into the lungs of three transgenic cows and three control cows, which were killed 16 weeks after infection. Scientists then examined the lung, lymph nodes, spleen and liver for lesions.

One of the three transgenic cows was found to have no sign of lesions and the two transgenic cows that were infected were found to have a significantly reduced bacterial load in the organs.

A further transmission study found that out of nine transgenic cows, six showed no sign of TB infection and the three with lesions again showed minimal damage to the lung and lymph nodes, compared to the control group.

Commenting on the research, Professor Heiner Niemann, head of the Institute of Farm Animal Genetics in Germany told The Guardian: "These findings are another step towards the creation of disease-resistant livestock animals based on advanced genetic tools."

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.