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The haemagglutinin gene of bovine-origin H5N1 influenza viruses currently retains receptor-binding and pH-fusion characteristics of avian host phenotype

Clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) has caused a panzootic affecting all continents except Australia, expanding its host range to several mammalian species. In March 2024, H5N1 HPAIV was first detected in dairy cattle and goats in the United…

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Pathophysiology of Penetrating Captive Bolt Stunning in Horned and Polled Sheep and Factors Determining Incomplete Concussion

Penetrating captive bolt (PCB) is widely used for stunning and on-farm dispatch of livestock, yet its efficacy can vary, with the potential for animal welfare compromise. This study investigated the pathophysiology of PCB-induced trauma in horned and polled sheep ( Ovis…

Singular black and white cow on dry muddy floor. Very small nodular lesions are visible all over its skin

Study reveals financial losses for dairy farmers in Thailand due to lumpy skin disease

A new study by Pirbright scientists and researchers from the Chiang Mai University in Thailand highlights the negative financial impact of lumpy skin disease (LSD) on farmers in northern Thailand. The research, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, revealed that…

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Marek's disease virus-encoded microRNA-M6-5p facilitates viral latent infection by targeting histone demethylase KDM2B

Marek's disease virus (MDV), a highly contagious and oncogenic avian alphaherpesvirus, establishes a latent infection primarily in CD4 + T cells. Latent infections are necessary for both persistent lifelong MDV infection and viral tumorigenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play…

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FABP4 as a therapeutic host target controlling SARS-CoV-2 infection

Host metabolic fitness is a critical determinant of infectious disease outcomes. Obesity, aging, and other related metabolic disorders are recognized as high-risk disease modifiers for respiratory infections, including coronavirus infections, though the underlying mechanisms…

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Detection and genomic characterisation of foot-and-mouth disease virus serotypes circulating in Cameroon using environmental sampling

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is a highly contagious, economically important disease of livestock and wildlife species. Active monitoring and understanding the epidemiology of FMDV underpin the foundations of control programmes. In many endemic areas, however…

Two mosquitoes laid out facing each other

Insect transgenesis

Generating genetically modified insects to uncover virus-vector interactions.

Close up of pink pig face snoozing on straw

Pirbright’s pig immunology expertise advances cystic fibrosis research

A pig model is enhancing cystic fibrosis research.

Flock of white sheep on grass. A long line of them extends into the background down a slope

Pirbright shares award to make affordable anti-parasite vaccine

Scientists at the Moredun Research Institute, near Edinburgh, and The Pirbright Institute have been awarded a £1.7 million grant over three years by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop a vaccine against a life-threatening parasite of sheep and goats. The parasite…

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The pseudoknot region and poly-(C) tract comprise an essential RNA packaging signal for assembly of foot-and-mouth disease virus

Virus assembly is a crucial step for the completion of the viral replication cycle. In addition to ensuring efficient incorporation of viral genomes into nascent virions, high specificity is required to prevent incorporation of host nucleic acids. For picornaviruses…