Performing Department
Biomedical & Diagnostic Sciences
Non Technical Summary
Elaeophora schneideriis a nematode wormthat infests several mammalian hosts in North America. It is transmitted by horse flies, and infection in normal hostsseldom produces clinical symptoms. In other hosts, such as moose, sheep, elk, and goats, infection with E. schneideri leads tonecrosis of the muzzle, ears, and optic nerves; lack of coordination; facial or lower limb dermatitis; horn deformities; blindness; and even death.Using sera from known Elaeophora-infected and uninfected moose, we will develop a live-animal ELISA to accurately test for E. schneideri. The sera initially tested will be banked, and subsequently collected sera from moose and other sympatric ungulates (cervids and bovids) will be tested later. Both a PCR test and an ELISA will be pursued. Test sensitivity and specificity will be determined, as well as infection prevalence for various regions and species.The goal is to make the test readily available at a low cost.Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, $10,000
Animal Health Component
100%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
100%
Developmental
(N/A)
Goals / Objectives
Investigate the role of parasites in the population decline and health of moose.Develop a more sensitive and specific live-animal test to detect E. schneideri.
Project Methods
Using sera from known Elaeophora-infected and uninfected moose, we will develop a live-animal ELISA test. The sera initially tested will be banked, and subsequently collected sera from moose and other sympatric ungulates (cervids and bovids) will be tested later. Both a PCR test and an ELISA will be pursued. Test sensitivity and specificity will be determined, as well as infection prevalence for various regions and species.