Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Bovine respiratory disease is responsible for a 7% death rate of western Canadian feedlot cattle. Current treatment and control of BRD relies heavily on the metaphylactic and therapeutic use of antimicrobials. Selection of the optimum initial medication is believed to enhance treatment efficacy of acute BRD. Currently, this critical information is only available 48 to 72 hours after a respiratory sample is received by a diagnostic laboratory.
This research proposes to develop and test a portable, simple to use, genomic based diagnostic protocol based on existing hardware, commercial sequencing kits and customized software.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
It's hypothesized that a rapid diagnostic test with a flexibility for on-site use will improve medication selection, lead to more timely administration, improve treatment efficacy and ultimately enhance feedlot cattle welfare, health, and performance.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Results will be shared through presentations at stakeholder meetings, publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and creation of standardized protocols suitable for use as guides.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.