Veterinární medicína - In Press
Oral efficacy of controlled-release Doxycycline against Ichthyophthirius multifiliis infestation in SalmonidsOriginal Paper
Z Mikulkova, K Matejickova, J Motlova, P Ginterova, M Jerabek, L Pojezdal
Ichthyophthiriosis, caused by Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, is a major threat in the salmonid aquaculture. This study evaluated the efficacy of orally administered standard doxycycline and controlled-release doxycycline formulations in experimentally infected brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). Fish received medicated feed for 10 days starting seven days post-infection. Controlled-release doxycycline achieved the highest survival rate (84.2%), followed by standard doxycycline (73.7%), while no control fish survived after day 25 post infection. Both drug formulations eliminated trophonts from the skin and gills by 20 days post-treatment. Despite a 2.5-fold lower dietary dose, the controlled-release doxycycline reached a tissue concentration equivalent to ~32% of the standard doxycycline, with similar retention rates. Levels of doxycycline residues in water declined over time for both groups, indicating limited environmental release. These results demonstrate the effective mitigation of ichthyophthiriosis with orally administered doxycycline and the enhancement of antiparasitic efficacy and the reduction of drug load in the tissues and environment via controlled-release technology, supporting its potential as a sustainable medicated feed strategy in salmonid aquaculture.
Influence of drone brood homogenate on the gut integrity and cellular immunity: a pilot study on pigsOriginal Paper
V Karaffova, D Mudronova, M Levkut, L Rajcakova, Erik Hudec, R Zitnan, P Patras
Drone brood homogenate (DBH), a nutrient-rich bee product, has received limited scientific attention despite its potential immunomodulatory and gut-protective properties. This study evaluated the effects of dietary DBH supplementation on intestinal barrier–related gene expression, phagocytic activity, and lymphocyte subpopulations in pigs. Eighteen weaned pigs were assigned to three groups (control, DBH100, DBH200) and fed DBH at 0, 100, or 200 mg/kg feed for 18 days. Gene expression of tight junction markers (occludin, claudin-1) and mucosal integrity–associated proteins (lumican, OLFM4) was assessed in the ileum by qRT-PCR. Phagocyte function and lymphocyte subpopulations in peripheral blood were analysed using flow cytometry. DBH200 significantly upregulated occludin, claudin-1, lumican, and OLFM4 expression, indicating enhanced intestinal barrier support. Phagocytes from both DBH-treated groups exhibited increased engulfing capacity and elevated oxidative burst index, though the percentage of active phagocytes was only weakly affected. DBH supplementation did not alter total T (CD3+) or B (CD21+) cells; however, both DBH groups showed a significantly increased CD4+:CD8+ lymphocyte ratio, what is consistent with immune stimulation. These findings suggest that DBH may beneficially modulate gut barrier integrity and selected components of innate and adaptive cellular immunity in pigs.
Effect of praziquantel´s 24-hour bath on haematological and biochemical profile and selected parameters of oxidative stress in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)Original Paper
R Dobsikova, P Marsalek, J Velisek, J Blahova
This study assessed the effect of a 24-hour bath with praziquantel (2 and 4 mg/l) on grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) by monitoring haematological parameters, plasma biochemical profile, and oxidative stress indices. Fish were sampled at 24-, 48-, 72-, and 96-hours post-exposure (hpe). Haematological analysis revealed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in white blood cell count immediately after treatment at both concentrations, with no subsequent changes. Within the plasma biochemical profile, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) was observed only in chloride (24 hpe at 2 mg/l; 72 hpe at both concentrations) and in magnesium (48 hpe at 2 mg/l). Oxidative stress responses indicated that the gill was the most responsive tissue. In the gill, catalase and glutathione S-transferase activities increased significantly (P < 0.05) at 48 hpe at 4 mg/l. Lipid peroxidation in the gill decreased at 48 hpe but increased at 72 hpe following exposure to 4 mg/l. In the hepatopancreas, glutathione peroxidase activity significantly decreased at 48 hpe at 2 mg/l. In plasma, significant changes (P < 0.05) were detected only in ceruloplasmin activity, which showed a decrease at 72 hpe at 2 mg/l group. These findings provide essential baseline data supporting the potential future application of praziquantel in aquaculture.
Drugs and products in beekeeping: efficacy and perspectives of natural alternativesReview
I Szabo, L Sabova, R Sabo, M Sucik
Honeybee health is a key factor in sustainable apiculture, with the most significant colony losses attributed to the mite Varroa destructor and microsporidia of the genus Nosema spp. The aim of this review article is to summarise current knowledge on the use of pharmaceuticals and preparations in the prevention and treatment of these diseases and to highlight promising alternatives to synthetic acaricides. Commonly used active substances such as amitraz and pyrethroids show decreased efficacy in many countries due to the development of resistance. Therefore, organic acids (formic, oxalic, and lactic acids), essential oils, and plant extracts are increasingly applied as environmentally friendly, residue-free alternatives. Some plant preparations and extracts have been shown to be effective against Nosema ceranae. In addition to therapeutic interventions, the importance of preventive measures and immune support through supplements containing vitamins, amino acids, and probiotics is emphasised. The article highlights the need for integrated bee health management combining pharmacological, natural, and biotechnological approaches to limit resistance development, minimise residues in bee products, and promote overall colony vitality.
In vitro comparison of anthelmintic efficacy across Gyrodactylus speciesOriginal Paper
M Ondrackova, J Kolarova, K Skocovska
Gyrodactylosis, caused by monogenean parasites of the genus Gyrodactylus, poses a significant threat to aquaculture, particularly under intensive farming conditions. This study evaluated the in vitro effectiveness of three veterinary anthelmintics - fenbendazole (FBZ), levamisole hydrochloride (LHC), and ivermectin (IVM) - against four Gyrodactylus species collected from wild cyprinid hosts. Parasite survival was monitored over 48 hours at 6–7 °C. LHC showed the highest efficacy at both tested concentrations (30 and 50 mg/l), achieving near-complete mortality within 8 hours. FBZ and IVM were significantly less effective, with 23% and 33% of parasites surviving, respectively. Species-specific differences in drug susceptibility were observed, particularly with FBZ and IVM, with G. carassii showing consistently higher sensitivity than G. laevis, G. rutilensis, and G. vimbi. Lower water temperatures probably contributed to reduced drug efficacy and prolonged parasite survival. These findings highlight the importance of species-level evaluation and temperature considerations when selecting anthelmintic treatments for gyrodactylosis. In vitro testing under controlled conditions offers valuable insights into parasite susceptibility and complements in vivo approaches. Further research incorporating broader parasite diversity, temperature ranges, and pharmacological profiles is recommended to optimise treatment strategies in aquaculture.
Protective effect of Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. on allergic asthma induced by ovalbuminOriginal Paper
S-H Park, S-W Pak, W-I Kim, B-R Jin, Y-K Cho, T-W Kim, J-W Ko, J-S Kim, J-C Kim, A Yeong Lee, I-S Shin
Allergic asthma is a widespread disease with elevated eosinophil levels. Although corticosteroids are widely prescribed for allergic asthma, numerous patients experience limited sensitivity and side effects. Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav., a traditional herbal plant, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in pulmonary inflammation caused by Asian sand dust and cigarette smoke condensate. To assess protective effects of L. tanakae, we examined the influence of L. tanakae ethanol extract (LTE) in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma. Mice received intraperitoneal sensitization with OVA, and challenged using OVA inhalation. LTE was consecutively orally gavaged for 6 days. Following sacrifice, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue was analyzed. LTE treatment considerably dropped inflammatory cell counts, proinflammatory cytokines in BALF, and immunoglobulin E as opposed to the OVA group, along with a reduction in airway hyperresponsiveness. LTE also improved airway inflammation and suppressed mucus hypersecretion within lung tissues. Additionally, expression of MMP-9 and activation of Erk, JNK, and p-38 were notably diminished in the LTE groups. This study revealed that reduced airway inflammation in OVA-induced asthma via suppressing MMP-9 and mitogen-activated protein kinase associated factors. Consequently, our findings demonstrated that LTE is suggested as a potential remedy for allergic asthma.
Comparison of the effect of Mospilan SP and its active substance on Artemia franciscanaOriginal Paper
M Falis, K Benova, M Spalkova, L Leskova
Contaminants formed after the use of pesticides raise concerns for human health and aquatic ecosystems, i. a. due to their high persistence in surface waters and their further migration to other components of the environment. In our study, we compared the effect of the preparation Mospilan SP and its active substance acetamiprid on the aquatic crustacean Artemia franciscana. For Mospilan SP LC50 after 120 hours was 367.44 mg/l, and after 144 hours 102.82 mg/l. For the active substance acetamiprid LC50 after 144 hours was 148.04 mg/l and after 168 hours 28.84 mg/l. The commercial preparation Mospilan SP showed a significant suppressing effect on the measured morphological parameters (body length, body width, intestinal diameter, and intestinal wall thickness) which were at a statistically significant level after 10 days of exposure. When comparing the changes after the application of the preparation and the active substance itself, it is impossible to confirm the same effect on the morphological parameters in given time intervals.
Establishment of an experimental pig model for the induction of Staphylococcus hyicus skin infectionOriginal Paper
K Matiaskova, M Reichelova, E Jeklova, M Zouharova, S Kobzova, K Nedbalcova, J Matiasovic, M Faldyna
Staphylococcus hyicus is one of the causative agents of exudative epidermitis in pigs. The aim of this study was to establish a porcine challenge model of skin infection with S. hyicus for the purpose of testing of the effectiveness of a medicinal product intended for local application. Based on the results of presence of toxin encoding genes and antimicrobial resistance (detected resistance to clindamycin, penicilin, ampicilin, erythromycin and tetracycline), three field strains were selected for the trial. At D0, six surface defects were created on the back of six piglets. The defects were inoculated with bacterium in two different concentrations - 1×108 or 1×109 CFU/ml. Every day for the duration of the experiment, pigs were monitored and rectal temperature was measured. On D4, D9 and D14 visual evaluation and indirect bacteriological imprints of defects were performed. Crusts were present from D9 and a lower concentration of bacteria led to the lower secretion and creation of crusts. Based on the results of bacterial cultivation of indirect imprints, however, S. hyicus was present in higher amounts in wound defects infected with the lower concentration of bacteria. As there were differences in obtained results among the strains used, it can be concluded that the strain marked as CAPM 6689 seems to be the most applicable and the lower concentration was enough for the infection development.
Secondary antibody therapy outperforms corticosteroids in ameliorating lipopolysaccharide-induced rat model of premature ovarian failureOriginal Paper
SM Albarrak, AK Zaki
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a significant cause of infertility and is often linked to autoimmune etiologies. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation is a well-established method to model autoimmune POF in rodents. Immunomodulatory treatments involving corticosteroids, frankincense, and targeted secondary antibodies have been hypothesised to mitigate the autoimmune response, reduce anti-ovarian antibody (AOA) levels, and restore ovarian function in an LPS-induced POF rat model. A POF model was established in female albino rats via the intraperitoneal injection of LPS. The rats were then divided into groups that received no treatment (LPS control), dexamethasone (DEX-treated LPS-treated rats), methylprednisolone (MP-treated LPS-treated rats), frankincense (Frankincense-treated LPS-treated rats), or secondary anti-ovarian antibodies (secondary Ab-treated LPS-treated rats) for 3 to 4 weeks. The serum levels of AOA, 17β-estradiol, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were assayed via commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Ovarian tissues were examined histopathologically to assess structural damage and recovery. LPS induction successfully created a POF phenotype, as evidenced by significantly elevated AOA levels (P < 0.001), reduced 17β-estradiol (P < 0.001), elevated FSH/LH (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively), and severe histopathological damage, including follicular atresia. All the treatments restored 17β-estradiol levels. Secondary antibody therapy was most effective, normalizing all hormonal parameters, significantly reducing AOA levels, and demonstrating complete histological recovery with healthy follicles and corpora lutea. MP potently suppressed AOA but paradoxically elevated FSH, failing to improve ovarian histology. DEX and frankincense showed intermediate efficacy, improving some hormonal and serological markers but failing to achieve full histological restoration. These findings demonstrate that targeted immunotherapy using secondary antibodies is superior to broad immunosuppression or anti-inflammatory treatment for restoring ovarian function in patients with autoimmune POF. While corticosteroids effectively reduce AOA titres, they may not reverse ovarian damage and can disrupt the hormonal balance. This underscores the need for precise, biomarker-guided therapies over nonspecific immunosuppression in patients with autoimmune ovarian insufficiency.
Pulsed electromagnetic fields vs. NSAID therapy in canine osteoarthritis: A randomised comparative pilot studyOriginal Paper
S Sassaroli, F Dini, V Sisti, V Riccio, S Meggiolaro, L Bellodi, A Palumbo Piccionello
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a cornerstone in the management of canine osteoarthritis (OA), despite concerns regarding their long-term safety. Among non-pharmacological alternatives, pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has gained attention for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, although veterinary-specific evidence remains limited.This randomised, controlled pilot study compared the clinical efficacy of PEMF therapy versus NSAID treatment (Mavacoxib) in 16 dogs with clinically and radiographically confirmed OA. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive either a 12-session PEMF protocol over 45 days or a standard Mavacoxib regimen. Clinical evaluations included pain scores (VAS), pain on palpation, lameness severity (NRS), gait analysis (GLS and TPI), muscle circumference, and radiographic progression. Assessments were performed at baseline (T0), 30 days (T1), and 60 days (T2).PEMF therapy showed earlier improvements in pain, lameness, and muscle mass, and a favourable trend in joint mobility. No significant differences were detected in gait or radiographic parameters between groups. These preliminary findings suggest the non-inferiority of PEMF compared to NSAIDs and highlight its potential role in multimodal OA management. Limitations include small sample size and short follow-up. Further studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results in larger cohorts.
Bovine mastitis: risk factors and isolation of Gram-negative bacteria in western AlgeriaOriginal Paper
C Bounoua, D Souna, MEA Bekara, I Belabdi, M Sebaihia, N Mimoune
A cross-sectional study was conducted in western Algeria between February and October 2024, aimed at determining the prevalence of bovine mastitis, Gram-negative bacilli, and their associated risk factors. A total of 524 cows were sampled using clinical examination and the California mastitis test. Milk samples from the affected quarter were subjected to bacteriological assays. Three generalised linear mixed models were used to identify the risk factors for clinical (CM) and subclinical (SCM) mastitis, as well as Gram-negative bacilli isolates associated with bovine mastitis. Model selection was performed using the Akaike information criterion. The prevalence of mastitis was 59.7% at the cow level, of which 12.6% was CM and 47.14% SCM. Overall, 65.4% of cows showed a positive culture for Gram-negative bacilli. The most commonly isolated bacteria were Escherichia spp. (44%), Klebsiella spp. (23.1%), and Pseudomonas spp. (11.6%). Parity, contact with visitors, and daily milk yield (l/day) were identified as risk factors for SCM in dairy cows. However, the administration of foremilk reduced the risk of developing SCM. History of mastitis, udder injuries, udder and leg hygiene scores, and parity were identified as risk factors for CM. Nevertheless, none of the variables examined were risk factors for udder infection by Gram-negative bacilli isolates.
The inhibition of deep peritoneal endometriosis by andrographolide through macrophage M1 activity in an endometriosis mice modelOriginal Paper
IA Susianto, N Susilaningsih, ST Hidayat, Hardian, RR Tjandrawinata, B Rachmawati
This study aims to demonstrate that andrographolide, an herbal immunostimulant, can influence M1 macrophages to inhibit inflammation, including the growth of endometriosis caused by inflammation. This study evaluates the effects of andrographolide on suppressing endometriosis through M1 macrophage activity. This post-test-only experimental study involved 42 female Balb/C mice, which were divided into six groups: Group N, KN (endometriosis without therapy), and KP (endometriosis + dienogest), P1 (endometriosis with 0.05 mg/kg), P2 (endometriosis + 0.1 mg/kg andrographolide), and P3 (endometriosis + 0.2 mg/kg andrographolide). Peritoneal fluid was aspirated, and the peritoneum was cut and stretched to observe the extent of endometriosis. This study compared the formation of ectopic endometrial lesions and analysed the ratio of M1 to M2 in each group that received standard therapy versus andrographolide therapy. The results from peritoneal fluid flow cytometry indicated that M1 was more dominant than M2 in comparison to KP. The levels of M2 in the P2 and P3 groups were also significantly lower than in the KN group. This study demonstrated that andrographolide may enhance the regulation of M1 macrophage differentiation, acting as a precursor to endometriosis growth by suppressing M2 phenotypes that promote the condition.
Ocular squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in a female buffaloCase Report
R Batista Viana, A Araujo Borges Lima, JM de Sousa Soares, G Meireles Borges, D Araujo Marques, SM da Silva Lobato, D de Menezes Melo, JC Melem Santos, L do Socorro Bremgarter, PE Zezema, S da Gama Barbosa Monger, G Melo Alves dos Santos, PP Maia Teixeira, G Rodrigues Galvão, J Dantas Ribeiro Filho, B Moura Monteiro
Ocular squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an epithelial neoplasm that affects the ocular and periocular tissues, often associated with factors such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The disease is rarely reported in buffalo, particularly with regard to its progression and treatment. This report describes a case of a buffalo with a pink mass in the right eye showing signs of inflammation. After clinical examination and initial treatment with topical solutions and systemic drugs, the tumour continued to grow. As a result, surgery was performed to remove the mass while preserving the eyeball and third eyelid. The procedure was successful and histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of OSCC. Postoperative recovery was satisfactory. It was concluded that surgical treatment followed by medical treatment, when performed early, allowed complete recovery of the buffalo with OSCC.
Effect of bacteriophages on growth performance and health indicators in broiler chickens in the absence of bacterial challenge – A reviewReview
MA Mohd Shaufi, SL Chia, H Abu Hassim, MT Yusof, MA Akbar, AAL Song, S Mustafa
This review examines bacteriophages as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in broiler chickens, uniquely focusing on effects in studies without experimental bacterial challenges. Driven by global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) concerns and sustainable poultry production demands, phage supplementation, a targeted strategy, potentially improves growth performance and gut health by preserving beneficial microbiota. This literature analysis assesses phage efficacy in healthy broilers under these non-challenge conditions, evaluating key variables like phage concentration, delivery, and targets, plus outcomes like feed conversion ratio (FCR) and gut health markers. Crucially, this review extends beyond efficacy to explore phage immunomodulatory capabilities, outlines optimisation strategies, and addresses risks and mitigation. Key findings show mixed efficacy of phages in non-challenged broilers: significant FCR and gut health improvements were generally observed with high phage concentrations (e.g., ≥108 PFU/g) and continuous delivery protocols, while inconsistent or lower doses yielded minimal benefits. Furthermore, choosing which bacteria phages target—for example, aiming at pathogens like Salmonella or managing common gut bacteria such as E. coli—greatly impacts outcomes. While phages show considerable potential as AGP alternatives, the review highlights that further research is vital for resolving inconsistencies, standardizing protocols, and understanding host genetic and environmental influences to optimise commercial application.