Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) (roundworms) are a major cause of production loss and disease in livestock. Control depends on routine anthelmintic drug dosing without evidence of need or effectiveness. This approach is now compromised due to changing societal attitudes and expectations for better drug stewardship. Consequently, there is an urgent need for better diagnostic tools to support evidence-based drug use in parasite control.
Researchers previously developed and applied new approached to assess GIN infection intensities and drug resistance using second-generation amplicon sequencing. However, these approaches are only suitable for large-scale research and surveillance. In contrast, third-generation nanopore sequencing has massive potential for routine diagnostics in smaller labs, clinics, and even in the field.
Nanopore sequencing for both GIN metabarcoding and anthelmintic resistance mutation detection in cattle and sheep will be developed. Researchers will also undertake proof-of-concept studies on a number of sheep farms to determine how best to use molecular diagnostics to improve parasite control, sustainability, and promote drug stewardship.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
This project aims to develop nanopore sequencing to provide a usable rapid diagnostic testing platform to enable producers to make evidence-based choices to improve parasite control and target drug treatments.
This research will increase production and profitability, as well as market access, drug stewardship, and consumer confidence for the beef and sheep industry.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
A website has been created in conjunction with Alberta Lamb Producers to provide information on parasite control for sheep producers in western Canada.
Researchers will continue to develop the nemabiome website, https://www.nemabiome.ca/, as a resource for the global research community.
Results will be shared through articles in industry publications, talks and workshops, presented at national and international scientific conferences, and published in peer-reviewed journals.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.