Scientists from the University of Agriculture in Krakow, in collaboration with researchers from Jagiellonian University, have developed a groundbreaking method for identifying the bacteria responsible for leptospirosis, an infectious disease affecting both humans and animals.
As announced by the University of Agriculture on Thursday, the Krakow-based researchers have created a tool that overcomes many of the current limitations in identifying these bacteria.
The method is based on determining the sugar composition of the lipopolysaccharide found on the surface of these bacterial cells. This composition plays a crucial role in classifying the isolated strain into one of the many serovariants of these pathogens. According to the researchers, accurate identification of Leptospira serovariants present in a given region is essential for the effective selection of vaccines against the disease.
The new method, as emphasized by the scientists, enables faster and more cost-effective identification of isolated bacteria without the need for immune sera obtained from rabbits. They believe this represents a significant advancement that can support epidemiological efforts and vaccination programs.
Leptospira, a Gram-negative bacterium, poses a serious threat to both animals and humans. Out of 70 known species of this bacterium, several have pathogenic properties that lead to leptospirosis. The disease is carried by animals such as rodents, as well as domestic and farm animals. Infection can occur through damaged skin or mucous membranes.
Recently, there has been an increase in cases of leptospirosis infections in dogs, often presenting with severe and fatal symptoms. The disease can also cause substantial losses in livestock farming.
The new diagnostic method for leptospirosis was developed by researchers from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Agriculture in Krakow—Dr. habil. Zbigniew Arent, Prof. URK, and Dr. Aleksandra Lewicka—in collaboration with scientists from the Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Biotechnology at Jagiellonian University—Dr. habil. Dariusz Latowski and Dr. Jan Łyczakowski.
Ph: Freepik
Source:
Nauka w Polsce
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