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Stem cell study could reduce animals used in research
The stem cell study could curb the need for tissue obtained from animals.
Researchers aim to generate a continuous supply of pig blood cells in the laboratory.

A new method of generating pig blood cells in the laboratory, to help limit the number of animals used in research, is being developed by scientists at the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute.

Researchers say their study aims to better understand techniques for generating white blood cells (macrophages) from pig stem cells in the lab. The research is being supported by the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs).

The blood cells will be used to test vaccines and treatments for highly contagious diseases, including African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV), and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV).

Dr Tom Burdon from the Roslin Institute, said: “The ability to generate a continuous supply of pig blood cells from stem cells in the lab would be a valuable tool in helping to develop vaccines against devastating livestock diseases, with significantly reduced need for tissue from animals.”

Working with the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Regenerative Medicine and the APHA, researchers seek to further understanding of how specific cells are derived efficiently from stem cells.

Their study will explore how white blood cells develop from pig stem cells, to identify key stages as they develop into blood cells. They hope to devise a method of arresting cell development, and for controlling the final stage of differentiation into white blood cells.

Researchers believe the technique has the potential to provide a large-scale, continuous supply of blood cells for the testing and development of therapies. It could, thereby, curb the need for tissue obtained from animals.

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FIVP announces third series of Practice Matters

News Story 1
 The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) has announced a third season of its podcast, Practice Matters.

Hosted by Ian Wolstenholme, series three will focus on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, including a discussion about some of the expected impacts on independent veterinary colleagues.

Episode one launches on 13th January with guests Drs David Reader and Scott Summers, who will draw on their research into the CMA investigation and provide insights into themes such as transparency, pricing and consumer trust.

Ian Wolstenholme said: "In its third series, we will try and hone in on what the changes will mean in reality for independent practices with advice and guidance on implementation and delivery, drawing on the experience of our own team and other experts in the profession. Hope you can join us soon!" 

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk