height=”464″
class=”entry-thumb”
src=”https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-696×464.png”
srcset=”
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-696×464.png 696w,
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-300×200.png 300w,
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-150×100.png 150w,
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-768×512.png 768w,
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-631×420.png 631w,
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-450×300.png 450w,
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM-310×206.png 310w,
https://www.dairyproducer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-14-at-11.44.10 AM.png 1024w”
sizes=”(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px”
alt=”Bovine Reproductive Diagnostics”
title=”BovReproSeq and Calf Health”
/>
Bovine Reproductive Failure: A Critical Concern
Bovine reproductive failure is a pressing issue for both beef and dairy producers, manifesting as reduced fertility and lower pregnancy rates. This challenge often stems from the inability to accurately identify the specific pathogens responsible for these reproductive issues, leaving producers with limited solutions and resulting in substantial financial losses due to decreased herd productivity.
The Diagnostic Challenge
Veterinary diagnostic laboratories are frequently confronted with cases of bovine reproductive failure, many of which prove challenging to diagnose due to the myriad of potential causes. In response to this challenge, a revolutionary approach to diagnostic testing has been introduced, aimed at streamlining the testing process and reducing costs for livestock producers.
Introducing BovReproSeq
Researchers have developed BovReproSeq, an innovative tool that utilizes next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to analyze clinical samples for a comprehensive panel of 17 bacterial, viral, and protozoal pathogens known to cause infertility, abortions, and stillbirths in cattle. Traditional diagnostic methodologies often necessitate multiple rounds of separate testing for specific pathogens, leading to both delays and increased costs. In contrast, BovReproSeq offers a more holistic and efficient solution.
Development and Collaboration
The development of this groundbreaking technology was spearheaded by Dr. Yanyun Huang, the chief executive officer of the province’s veterinary diagnostic laboratory, in collaboration with Dr. Janet Hill, professor and head of the Department of Veterinary Microbiology at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM). The project received funding in 2022 from the Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund (ADF), with significant contributions from Dhinesh Periyasamy, a Master of Science student and PDS technical specialist.
Refining the Diagnostic Panel
Periyasamy played a pivotal role in refining BovReproSeq, engaging with veterinarians and pathologists to identify the most relevant pathogens to include in the diagnostic panel. The initial testing phase involved analyzing clinical samples from bovine reproductive failure cases at PDS, which included positive samples for each of the 17 targeted pathogens. A comparison of the results from 116 samples processed through BovReproSeq against traditional testing methods revealed an impressive accuracy rate of 99 percent. Although 11 cases returned false negatives, these instances were primarily linked to very low pathogen loads, underscoring some limitations in analytical sensitivity.
Research and Future Directions
The encouraging results have formed the basis of a research paper recently published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology. Currently, the second phase of the study is underway, funded by the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), which will test an additional 100 diagnostic cases in real time while comparing results with a panel of standard tests. This phase will also include toxicological testing, further enhancing the diagnostic process’s comprehensiveness.
Positive Feedback and Future Availability
As BovReproSeq continues its validation process, early feedback from veterinarians and producers has been overwhelmingly positive. The research team anticipates that this technology will establish itself as the gold standard for diagnosing bovine reproductive failure, leading to improved herd health and productivity across the livestock sector. This project exemplifies the significance of collaborative efforts between veterinary institutions and diagnostic laboratories in tackling real-world challenges and advancing animal health solutions. By the end of 2025, BovReproSeq is expected to be widely available for veterinary use, providing a valuable resource for livestock producers seeking more efficient and accurate diagnostic options.
