Johne's Disease in Dairy Cattle: An Immunogenetic Perspective

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Immunology
• Bovine Genetics
• Infectious Disease Pathogenesis

Background:

• Johne's disease (JD), caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), is a significant economic and welfare issue in global cattle populations.
• MAP infection leads to chronic enteritis in cattle and raises public health concerns due to potential links with human Crohn's disease.
• Limited treatment options and increasing prevalence highlight the urgent need for enhanced JD control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in understanding JD pathogenesis from an immunogenetic perspective.
• To synthesize key findings from diverse research models elucidating host-pathogen interactions.
• To explore future mitigation strategies for JD in cattle, including gene-editing technologies.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of experimental infection models (in vivo and in vitro).
• Evaluation of immune parameters in naturally infected cattle.
• Population-level studies for genetic parameter estimation and identification of genetic markers/QTL.

Main Results:

• Significant progress in understanding immunological, genetic, and pathogen factors influencing JD.
• Identification of genetic markers and QTL associated with cattle susceptibility or resistance to JD.
• Enhanced knowledge of host-pathogen interactions in JD pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Recent immunogenetic research provides a foundation for improved JD control.
• Emerging technologies like gene-editing hold promise for future JD mitigation strategies.
• Continued research is crucial for effectively managing JD in cattle and addressing its economic and welfare impacts.