Retinal Changes in Sheep with Scrapie
Author Information
Author(s): Regnier Alain, Andreoletti Olivier, Albaric Olivier, Gruson Delphine Cayez, Schelcher François, Toutain Pierre-Louis
Primary Institution: UMR 181 Physiopathologie et Toxicologie Expérimentales, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire
Hypothesis
The study investigates the functional and structural changes in the retina of sheep affected by natural scrapie.
Conclusion
Significant retinal degeneration was observed in scrapie-affected ewes, although no clear visual impairment was noted.
Supporting Evidence
- Electroretinographic responses showed significant reductions in scrapie-affected sheep compared to controls.
- Histopathological examination revealed significant retinal degeneration in scrapie-affected sheep.
- PrPSc deposits were found in the retinas of all scrapie-affected sheep.
Takeaway
Sheep with scrapie have problems with their eyes, but they don't seem to have trouble seeing.
Methodology
The study involved clinical diagnosis, electroretinography, and histomorphometric analysis of the retinas of scrapie-affected and control sheep.
Limitations
The study was limited to a small sample size and specific breed of sheep.
Participant Demographics
Seventeen scrapie-affected red face Manech ewes and six healthy age-matched controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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