Reproducible dry cow mastitis challenge model
Develop a dry cow mastitis challenge model using pathogens identified via next-generation sequencing to facilitate vaccine and therapeutic development. The model aims to achieve over 70% infection in challenged quarters, supporting realistic field conditions.
Overview
This research project focuses on creating a reproducible dry cow mastitis challenge model that leverages pathogens isolated from clinical and subclinical mastitis cases. Utilizing a unique biobank of milk samples with known disease severity and pathogen history, the project aims to identify and isolate the most virulent and prevalent mastitis pathogens using next-generation sequencing (NGS). These pathogens are then used to induce mastitis in dry cows via intramammary infusion, with the goal of achieving a high infection rate, which is critical for future vaccine and therapeutic development.
Technical specifications
- Pathogen Identification: Employ next-generation sequencing (NGS) on archived milk samples to precisely identify dominant mastitis pathogens.
- Inoculation Protocol: Administer identified pathogens into the quarters of dry cows through intramammary infusion.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Track clinical signs, collect milk and tissue samples, and assess somatic cell counts, bacterial load, and immune response markers to evaluate infection and response.
- Reproducibility: Conduct multiple independent trials to ensure consistent infection rates, targeting a benchmark of ≥70% infection in challenged quarters.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 6, having been validated through multiple trials across different settings, demonstrating its potential for practical application in vaccine and therapeutic development.
About Texas A&M University, College Station
Texas A&M University in College Station is a comprehensive public research university and the flagship of The Texas A&M University System, combining broad academic strengths with a strong applied‑research culture. Industry collaborates on the Texas A&M‑RELLIS campus—an integrated education, research and testing environment that supports large‑scale experimentation and proving grounds—and through the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s facilities in Bryan‑College Station. A statewide extension network connects university expertise to companies and communities across all Texas counties, enabling rapid piloting and deployment. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA and DoD, alongside state and industry sponsorship. Texas A&M Innovation provides IP management, licensing and commercialization pathways across the system.
delivered to your inbox.