A group of researchers from Lima-based San Marcos National University developed a vaccine to prevent and control acute Pasteurella multocida pneumonia in young and baby alpacas.
The project was co-financed by Peru's Production Ministry through its Innovate Peru Program.
"The study constitutes an important contribution to acute pneumonia treatment in South American camelids since there is no research on a specific vaccine to combat the effects of this disease in
alpacas to date," Research Project Coordinator Abelardo Lenin Maturrano Hernandez stated.
According to him, this ailment is the leading cause of death among young
alpacas and the second most common among neonates.
Developed with the use of reverse vaccinology techniques, this recombinant vaccine (recombinant protein) is intended to bolster
alpacas' defenses against bacterial pathogens causing the respiratory illness.
"We produced a complete genome sequence of Pasteurella multocida to develop an effective solution against pneumonia in alpacas. Plus, we initiated a search for virulence and/or pathogenicity factors that would act as immunogens. We used reverse vaccinology techniques for doing so, as is the case when developing vaccines for use in animals and human beings," he explained.
The investigation was also supported by the Institute for Research and Development of South American Camelids (CONOPA) and the National Health Institute (INS).
As is known, Peru is the
leading alpaca fiber producer and has the largest population of this camelid in the world, outpacing regional competitors like Bolivia and Chile.
(END) NDP/LZD/RMB/MVB
Published: 1/5/2018