Scrapie Transmission via Milk in Lambs
Author Information
Author(s): Timm Konold, S. Jo Moore, Susan J. Bellworthy, Hugh A. Simmons
Primary Institution: Veterinary Laboratories Agency
Hypothesis
Can milk from scrapie-affected ewes transmit scrapie to lambs?
Conclusion
The study found that scrapie can be transmitted from ewes to lambs through milk, as indicated by the presence of PrPd in the lambs' tissues.
Supporting Evidence
- PrPd was detected in the distal ileum of two lambs fed scrapie milk.
- All remaining scrapie milk recipients tested positive for PrPd at seven months.
- Control lambs that were not mixed with scrapie milk recipients remained negative for PrPd.
Takeaway
This study shows that sick sheep can pass a disease called scrapie to their baby sheep through their milk.
Methodology
18 lambs were fed milk from scrapie-affected ewes, and their tissues were examined for PrPd.
Limitations
The study could not determine if colostrum or subsequent milk was responsible for the transmission.
Participant Demographics
Lambs were of the VRQ/VRQ genotype, which is highly susceptible to scrapie.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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