University of Missouri researchers are working to develop the first-ever vaccine proven to protect cattle from anaplasmosis. The tick-borne disease infects the red blood cells of cattle and causes millions of dollars in economic losses nationwide each year.
Roman Ganta, a professor in the university’s College of Veterinary Medicine, led the study. He has been researching molecular genetics and vector-borne diseases for more than 30 years.
The research involved genetically modifying the pathogen Anaplasma marginale, which causes bovine anaplasmosis. By deleting a specific gene and then vaccinating cattle with the modified pathogen, the animals successfully were immunized against the disease.
Ganta said the new vaccine has been proven to give immunized cattle protection for at least a month. He and his team are planning to conduct further research to determine exactly how long the genetically modified pathogen can provide immunity. Ganta also is collaborating with industry partners to discuss the future distribution of the new vaccine, which has been patented, to cattle producers.