Mud crabs of the genus Scylla (Scylla serrata and S. olivacea) are important species for aquaculture diversification in India. The current scientific focus is to understand the microbiome of S. serrata and S. olivacea from the same habitat to know the similarity or difference due to host phylogeny to enable species-specific interventions for seed production and farming practices. Intestinal microbiota strongly influence the overall physiological processes of aquatic organisms. This study investigates the gut bacterial composition of two economically important mud crab species (S. serrata and S. olivacea), employing 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing. The a-diversity indices of S. serrata showed increased richness compared to S. olivacea. The ß-diversity indices showed strong clustering based on the host phylogeny. Detected bacteria in S. serrata were classified into 31 phyla leading to 564 genera. In S. olivacea, the detected bacteria were classified into 26 phyla leading to 405 genera. The dominant phyla in the gut of S. serrata were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Fusobacteriota, and Bacteroidota, while the dominant phyla in S. olivacea belonged to Firmicutes, Campylobacterota, Fusobacteriota, and Proteobacteria. The dominant genus was represented by ZOR0006, Hypnocyclicus, Candidatus_Bacilloplasma, Psychrilyobacter, and Vibrionaceae unclassified in S. serrata, and in addition to these, Halarcobacter was dominant in S. olivacea. The analysis showed that the gut microbiota of S. serrata and S. olivacea varied significantly, though they inhabited the same environment, indicating the role of host species in shaping the gut microbiota.
Chevon is a protein-rich, lean red meat prone to microbial contamination and lipid oxidation due to its composition. This study evaluates Electron Beam Irradiation (EBI) combined with Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) on the microbiological, physicochemical, and sensory qualities of raw chevon during refrigerated storage. Chevon samples were packaged in MAP (70% N2, 20% CO2, 10% O2) and treated with EBI at 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 kGy. The results revealed that EBI significantly reduced microbial load, including Total Viable Count, and extended shelf life compared to non-irradiated controls. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, Thiobarbituric Acid (TBA) values, and tyrosine content indicated that irradiation delayed lipid oxidation and protein degradation. Sensory evaluation confirmed that higher irradiation doses maintained overall acceptability longer. Shelf life increased from 3 days (control) to 21 days (3.0 kGy EBI + MAP). These findings highlight EBI with MAP as an effective method to enhance the safety, quality, and storage stability of raw chevon.
Camels are remarkably well-suited to life in arid and semi-arid environments, often inhabited by farmers with limited resources. However, these camels are susceptible to various parasites, some of which pose risks to both animal and human health. Compared to other livestock, the identification of camel parasites remains relatively basic, hindered by a lack of advanced diagnostic methods. This has negatively impacted camel health and productivity, endangering camels, those who handle them, and humans more broadly. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of existing and emerging diagnostic techniques for identifying camel parasites. It covers commonly used methods such as microscopy, serology, and molecular techniques. Additionally, the review will delve into promising advancements in rapid and reliable technologies, including LAMP assays and Luminex X-MAP technology. Finally, it will touch upon cutting-edge bioinformatics tools, RNA interference, and CRISPR technology, highlighting their potential for scalable diagnosis of camel parasitic diseases.
Adjuvants are substances distinct from antigens that enhance T and B cell activation mainly by promoting the accumulation and activation of antigen presenting cells (APCs) at the site of antigen exposure. Adjuvants (Latin: “adjuvare,” meaning “to help”) are designed to improve poorly immunogenic vaccines. Adjuvants were originally described by Ramon as ‘substances used in combination with a specific antigen that produced a more robust immune response than the antigen alone,’ thus encompassing a wide range of materials. One of the most important strategies for the development of effective new vaccines is the selection and usage of a suitable adjuvant. Immunologic adjuvants play a very important role in enhancing vaccine potency by improving the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to vaccine antigens. In this review, we summarize the recent advances that are taking place in the development of potent adjuvants in human and veterinary vaccines.
West Nile fever is a mosquito-borne illness caused by the West Nile virus (WNV), a member of the Flavivirus genus. First identified in Uganda in 1937, WNV has since spread globally, with significant outbreaks reported in Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America. The virus is primarily transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which acquire the virus from infected birds, the main reservoir hosts. Humans and other mammals are incidental hosts, typically contracting the virus through mosquito bites. Other less common transmission routes include blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to baby. Epidemiologically, West Nile fever exhibits seasonal peaks in late summer and early fall. Risk factors for infection include advanced age, immunocompromised states, and outdoor activities that increase mosquito exposure. Clinically, approximately 80% of infected individuals are asymptomatic. Symptomatic cases often present with fever, headache, fatigue, and a maculopapular rash. Severe neuroinvasive disease, occurring in less than 1% of cases, can manifest as encephalitis, meningitis, or acute flaccid paralysis, predominantly affecting the elderly and immunocompromised. Gross pathology in severe cases may show inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Histopathological findings typically include perivascular lymphocytic infiltration, microglial nodules, and neuronal degeneration. Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation and confirmed through laboratory tests such as serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) IgM antibody capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (MAC-ELISA), reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and viral culture. Prevention of West Nile fever focuses on vector control and personal protective measures. Strategies include eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding sites, using insect repellents containing DEET, and wearing protective clothing. Public health efforts also involve surveillance of mosquito populations and monitoring virus activity in birds and humans. Currently, there are no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines available for West Nile fever, with management being supportive and symptom-focused. Research continues to develop effective vaccines and therapeutic options to combat this emerging infectious disease.
A wound is a break in the skin or tissues, which can be associated with structural and functional disruption. The invasion of pathogenic organisms aggravates wounds, which are one of the most harmful illnesses in the body. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious public health issue that compromises our ability to treat infections. AMR is observed in many bacteria, and this is increasing day by day due to the excessive use of antimicrobial agents. In the present study, a total of 105 wound swab samples were collected aseptically from dogs (50), cattle (36), goats (10), buffaloes (5), cats (3), and a horse (1) suffering from wound infection from Anand district of Gujarat. Out of 105 wound swab samples, 94.29% (99) wound swab samples were found positive for bacterial pathogen isolation, while 5.71% (6) were found negative. The beta-lactam resistance genes bla_SHV and bla_CMY were detected in 1.89% (1/53) and 26.41% (14/53) isolates of Staphylococcus spp., respectively, while bla_TEM could not be detected in any of the bacterial isolates. Quinolone resistance genes qnrA, qnrS, gyrA, and gyrB were detected in 1.89% (1/53), 5.66% (3/53), 3.77% (2/53), and 5.66% (3/53) isolates of Staphylococcus spp., respectively, while qnrB could not be detected in any of the bacterial isolates. Aminoglycoside resistance genes aac(3)-1V and aadA1 were detected in 11.32% (6/53) and 13.21% (7/53) isolates of Staphylococcus spp. The methicillin resistance gene mecA was detected in 13.21% (7/53) isolates of Staphylococcus spp.
Canine and feline viral infections remain a significant threat to companion animal health in India due to high population density, variable vaccination coverage, and frequent animal movement. This retrospective cross-sectional study investigated the molecular prevalence of major viral pathogens in domestic dogs and cats presented to the Referral Veterinary Polyclinic, ICAR–IVRI, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, over a two-year period (November 2023–November 2025). A total of 1,394 clinical samples (719 canine and 675 feline) were analysed using PCR. Among dogs, canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) was the most prevalent (21%), followed by canine coronavirus (8.9%), canine adenovirus 1 (5.14%), and canine adenovirus 2 (3.89%), with occasional mixed infections. In cats, feline panleukopenia virus (23.85%) predominated, followed by feline herpesvirus-1 (2.81%) and feline calicivirus (0.14%), while feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus were not detected. Viral nucleic acids were identified in some vaccinated animals, indicating possible vaccine failure or early infection. These findings highlight the continued circulation of viral pathogens and emphasize the need for sustained molecular surveillance and optimized vaccination strategies.
India’s livestock sector is a major reservoir for bacterial pathogens and a potential source of antimicrobial resistance. We investigated the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance mechanisms in Staphylococcus spp. and Escherichia coli from livestock and poultry isolates from Sambhal district, Uttar Pradesh. A total of 173 samples (cow and buffalo milk and rectal, goat rectal, and poultry cloacal swabs) were collected and cultured. Staphylococci were isolated from 55 of 65 milk samples (84.6%), including 12 S. aureus (21.8% of Staphylococci). Fifteen of 55 isolates (27.3%) were methicillin-resistant. Penicillin (43.6%) and erythromycin (23.6%) resistance predominated, while all isolates remained linezolid susceptible. E. coli prevalence was 71.1% (123/173). High resistance was observed to ampicillin (59.3%), ceftriaxone (39.0%), and cefotaxime (29.3%). ESBL and AmpC phenotypes were detected in 20 (16.3%) and 11 (8.9%) isolates, respectively; carbapenem resistance was rare and mCIM-negative. Multivariate clustering revealed sample-type and host-associated resistance patterns with considerable overlap between bovine and poultry isolates.
Swinepox is caused by the Swinepox virus (SPV) of the genus Suipoxvirus, subfamily Chordopoxvirinae in the family Poxviridae. The SPV mostly produces an asymptomatic disease that is characterized by fever, a decrease in feed and water intake, dullness, and scab formation on the skin in the advanced stages. It has a severe economic impact due to reduced production and quality of pork. To prevent it, annual vaccination is recommended. In spite of vaccination, it is endemic in India. Under such circumstances, it is imperative to conduct continuous surveillance of swinepox, its confirmation and characterization for the assessment of any genetic diversity and efficacy of the existing vaccine. Any mutation may lead to the failure of vaccination. With this objective, samples (n=12) were collected from 4 affected districts (n=3 from each) and subjected to PCR-based amplification (524bp) of the swinepox-specific transcription factor-3 (VLTF-3) gene. The PCR products of representative samples (n=4), one each from one district, were outsourced for Sanger sequencing. The analysis of sequences and phylogenetic analysis revealed clustering of all four isolates within a single, well-supported clade with short branch lengths suggestive of a high degree of genetic similarity and possible circulation of closely related viral strains in the studied region. Their relationships are supported by a pairwise nucleotide identity matrix along with the closest genetic affinity aligned with previously reported swinepox virus strains of India and South Korea, forming a regional lineage that reflects limited divergence.
An experimental study was conducted to evaluate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of Centella asiatica leaf extract in ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity in female Wistar rats. Forty rats were randomly divided into five groups. Group I served as the normal control, while hepatotoxicity was induced in Groups II, IV, and V by oral administration of 60% ethanol (5 ml/kg) for 28 days. Group III received Centella asiatica extract alone (300 mg/kg), while Groups IV and V were co-administered with ethanol and either silymarin (200 mg/kg) or Centella asiatica extract (300 mg/ kg), respectively. Body weights, organ weights, hematological indices, and serum biochemical markers (ALT, AST, ALP, BUN, creatinine) were assessed. Antioxidant parameters including malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase, and reduced glutathione (GSH) were evaluated in liver tissue. Histopathological examination of the liver, kidney, and brain was performed at the end of the experiment. Ethanol administration significantly altered hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress markers and induced histological damage in liver and kidney tissues. Treatment with Centella asiatica and silymarin reversed these changes, with silymarin showing slightly superior efficacy in restoring hepatic architecture. The results of the present investigation suggest that Centella asiatica possesses potent hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity, supporting its potential as a therapeutic agent against ethanol-induced liver injury.
P. aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen responsible for causing nosocomial infections in patients with weakened host defences. The organism is also responsible for causing mastitis in animals. This organism is known to acquire resistance to antibiotics rapidly. The rising tide of antibiotic resistance in microbial pathogens has ignited the quest for novel antimicrobial solutions. The present study was planned to isolate and identify P. aeruginosa from clinical and environmental samples. The study also aimed to determine biofilm forming ability and their susceptibility to various antibiotics. Effectiveness of alternative antimicrobials (essential oils) viz. cinnamon, thyme, oregano and clove was also determined against these strains. A total of 10 P. aeruginosa strains were isolated from 102 samples based on morphological, biochemical and molecular methods. An overall positivity of 9.8% (10/102) was found in isolation. All the isolates were found to be multidrug resistant (100%; 10/10) highlighting the importance to search for alternative antimicrobials. All the strains were found to be biofilm producers however, strains differed in their potential to produce biofilms as determined by crystal violet assay and could be classified as mild, moderate and strong biofilm producers. Essential oils of cinnamon, thyme and oregano were found to be effective against these drug-resistant strains of P. aeruginosa indicating their potential as alternative to antibiotics, however, further work is required to access the applicability of these identified essential oils for clinical, food and environmental applications.
AbstractBrucellosis is a significant zoonotic disease with major economic implications, particularly in livestock. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as bacterial culture and serology, are often time-consuming and less sensitive. In this study, a PCR assay targeting the per gene was developed. The assay demonstrated 100% sensitivity in detecting Brucella DNAacross various isolates and showed no cross-reactivity with non-Brucella species. It was capable of detecting as little as 38.3 pg of Brucella genomic DNA and 4.8 × 10² CFU/mL in spiked milk samples, suggesting its high sensitivity and specificity. The developed assay offered a rapid, reliable method for Brucella detection, particularly useful for outbreak investigations and zoonotic risk assessment. Future research should focus on optimizing sample preparation and expanding testing across diverse sample types to further enhance the assay’s applicability in field conditions.
AbstractTicks and tick-borne diseases cause 787.63 million USD economic losses in India. Anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and theileriosis were listed among the top ten livestock diseases in India. The present study aimed to detect different Anaplasma spp. in cattle, sheep, and goats by using species-specific PCR in Tamil Nadu, India. Blood samples from a total of 274 animals were collected from cattle, sheep, and goats. DNA was extracted from whole blood samples by the NaOH lysis method and screened with species-specific msp5 primers for A. marginale and groEL primers for A. bovis and A. ovis. For each species, one sample was randomly taken for sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis was carried out. The overall prevalence of A. marginale, A. bovis, and A. ovis was 33.94%, 9.12%, and 12.77%, respectively, in Tamil Nadu. Cattle were predominantly infected with A. marginale (50.31%), and A. ovis infection was most commonly seen in sheep (28.57%) and goats (34.55%) compared to A. bovis. Ingeneral, goats were more commonly infected with Anaplasma spp. than sheep. Phylogenetic and BLAST analysis of A.marginale msp5, A. bovis groEL,and A. ovis groELgene sequences revealed that they were 98.55% to 100%, 88.14% to97.65%, and 97.78% to 100%, respectively, matched with nucleotide sequences from different geographical locations, hosts, and vectors deposited in the NCBI GenBank database. This study provided salient information on the epidemiology of different Anaplasma spp. and also revealed an increased prevalence of A. marginale in cattle and A. ovis in sheep and goats in Tamil Nadu, India.
AbstractAvian Influenza (AVI), commonly known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral infection with significant pandemic potential and devastating impacts on poultry and birds. Outbreaks in domesticated birds are particularly concerning as Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (LPAI) can evolve into High Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (HPAI), leading to rapid spread and severe outbreaks in poultry populations. Effective containment requires swift actionand strict precautions when handling infected birds or materials. While AVI viruses generally do not replicate efficiently in humans, making direct transmission rare, certain strains like H5N1 and H7N9 have demonstrated the ability to cross species barriers and infect humans. Recently, the first documented case of H5N8 transmission from birds to humans has raised further concerns. This highlights the need to examine strain variations, disease severity, economic losses, and effective control strategies. AVI causes high mortality rates in birds, often wiping out entire flocks within days and resulting in substantial economic losses for poultry farmers. Transmission to humans typically occurs through direct contact with infected birds or their droppings. Ducks, geese, and migratory birds are primary vectors for the spread of the virus. Addressing AVI requires a comprehensive approach to mitigate its impact on both animal and human health.
AbstractBiocides are chemical compounds widely used for their antimicrobial properties in various fields, including healthcare, agriculture, and industries. Their use dates back to ancient practices such as the employment of natron, oils, and balsams for mummification and copper and silver vessels for storing potable water. Today, diverse classes of biocides have been identified and are used widely for disinfection, antiseptic, and preservation purposes. Biocides operate through various mechanisms, including membrane disruption, protein denaturation, and oxidative damage. Despite their critical role in infection control across various sectors, concerns about bacterial resistance to biocides are growing, similar to antibiotic resistance. Hence, this review article highlights the applications and mechanisms of action of biocides, as well as the bacterial resistance mechanisms that counteract their effectiveness.
AbstractAfrican swine fever virus (ASFV) and Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus Type 2 (PRRSV-2) are listed as notifiable diseases by the World Organisation for Animal Health due to their pathogenicity and their abilityto affect the swine industry, leading to economic losses. This study aims to address the paucity ofregion-specific data, including demographic and spatial risk factors. Analyzing a total of 182 biological samples collected from pigs in the period of 2022-2025, this study employed the OIE-recommended qPCR procedure. ASFV was detectedin 88.46%, and its prevalence increased across years, while PRRSV-2cases were limited to 2022 and found to have an 11.54% positivity rate. Statistically significant associations were observed betweenvirus prevalence and factors such as age group and sampling year (p < 0.0001). These findings are significant for understanding the shifting dynamics of swine viral infections in the region and guiding targeted disease monitoring.
AbstractThroughout the last two decades, the spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR) especially ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae strains has been increasingly reported and has become a substantial public health risk. The study aimed to determine the ESBL and virulence genes and their prevalence in (n=85) Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates recovered from (n=150) marketed chevon samples. The Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were subjected to phenotypic ESBL detection and ESBL-associated genes (blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M, blaCTX-M__1, blaCTX-M__2, and blaCTX-M__9) and virulence genes (wabG and rmpA). Phenotypically, (n=49) 57.65% of isolates were ESBL producers, with the highest proportion in isolates from the intestine. Out of a total of 85 isolates, (n=49) 57.65% were found to be positive for blaTEMand (n=41) 48.23% for the blaSHV gene. The prevalence of blaCTX-M (29.41%), blaCTX-M__1(04.76%), blaCTX-M__2 (02.35%),and blaCTX-M__9 (05.88%) genes was found among isolates. Additionally, the virulence gene wabG was found in (n=51) 60% and rmpA in three (3.52%) isolates. Pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae harbors single to multiple virulence and ESBL-producing genes, asstatistically significant associations demonstrate between genetic ESBL determinants and phenotypic resistance markers, assisting the organism in more antibiotic resistance complexity and pathogenicity. These findings advocate for a multifaceted diagnostic approach to effectively manage infections caused by ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae pathogens and mitigate their clinical and public health impacts.
AbstractThis study evaluates the quality and shelf-life of chicken salami packaged using atmospheric, vacuum, and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) under refrigerated storage. Chicken salami samples were packaged using three packaging materials–Evoh-based, Nylon-based, and Cryovac–and then further analyzed for sensory, physico-chemical, and microbiological parameters over 10 weeks. Atmospheric packaging resulted in complete spoilage by the fourth week, while vacuum and MAP extended acceptability, showing shelf-life up to the sixth and seventh weeks, respectively. Microbiological analysis revealed the absence of E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus beyond the third week in vacuum and MAP-packed samples, while yeast and mould counts increased over time as the storage period advanced. physico-chemical indices such as pH, Total Volatile Basic Nitrogen (TVBN), and Meat Swelling Capacity (MSC) increased, whereas Extract Release Volume (ERV), Methylene Blue Reduction Time (MBRT), and Resazurin Dye Reduction Test (RDRT) values declined. The study concluded that among the packaging methods and materials used, the MAP method and Evoh-based packaging material were found to be the most effective combination for preserving/extending the shelf-life of chicken salami up to seven weeks at refrigeration temperature.
AbstractMycoplasma capricolum subspecies capripneumoniae (Mccp) is the etiological agent of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP), a severe and economically significant notifiable disease affecting sheep and goats. While the incidence of CCPP has been documented in India, confirmatory data on its prevalence across the large geographical region of Andhra Pradesh remain lacking. Although goats are considered the primary host of CCPP, its impact on sheep has also been observed. The present study provides definitive evidence of the widespread prevalence of Mccp in sheep and goats across several districts of Andhra Pradesh from January 2023 to December 2024. Out of 63 samples tested by the Mccp arcD gene-specific PCR, 61 percent of sheep samples and 31 percent of goat samples yielded positive amplification of the expected 316 bp PCR products. These findings confirm the widespread prevalence of Mccp in sheep along with its primary host, goat. The research also documents the year-round incidence of CCPP, with both unilateral and bilateral lung involvement in sheep and goats. Genomic sequence analysis of five isolates representing different geographical areas of the state showed 98–100% nucleotide sequence identity with Mccp field isolates from India and other countries. Furthermore, no genetic divergence was observed between Mccp isolates from sheep and goats in this study. These findings confirm the prevalence of CCPP in sheep, highlighting its significance as an emerging host species, with notable bilateral lung involvement observed in both sheep and goats. This emphasizes the critical need for targeted control measures and enhanced surveillance to mitigate the impact of CCPP on small ruminant populations in Andhra Pradesh.
