Could New Research Help Stamp Out BSE?

KTIC 840 Rural Radio - Nebraska

September 17, 2008

New research indicates that some cases of BSE may be a genetics problem. Research out of Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine suggests BSE also is caused by a genetic mutation within a gene called Prion Protein Gene. Prion proteins are expressed abundantly in the brain and immune cells of mammals.

According to Juergen Richt, regents distinguished professor of diagnostic medicine and Pathobiology at K- State, - our findings that there is a genetic component to B.S.E. are significant because they tell you we can have this disease everywhere in the world, even in so-called B.S.E.-free countries.

However, Richt said B.S.E. caused by genetics is extremely rare. A recent epidemiological study estimated that the mutation affects less than 1 in 2,000 cattle. Still, Mr. Richt said - the upside of knowing that B.S.E. has a genetic component is that it offers ways of stamping out the disease through selective breeding and culling of genetically affected animals.

kticam.com