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Genetically engineered monoclonal antibody for E coli diarrhea in calves
Modern Veterinary Practice
|June 1, 1984
Summary
A novel monoclonal antibody administered orally to newborn calves effectively reduced severe diarrhea and mortality caused by E. coli. This treatment significantly improved calf health in both controlled studies and field trials.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary immunology
- Animal health
- Microbiology
Background:
- Neonatal calf diarrhea, particularly from enterotoxigenic E. coli (K99), poses a significant threat to calf survival and herd health.
- Effective preventative and therapeutic strategies are crucial for managing E. coli-related enteritis in dairy calves.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a genetically engineered monoclonal antibody for preventing and reducing the severity of enterotoxigenic E. coli diarrhea in newborn calves.
Main Methods:
- Oral administration of a monoclonal antibody to calves within 12 hours of birth.
- Challenge studies to assess efficacy against K99 E. coli.
- Double-blind field trials across multiple dairy herds.
Main Results:
- Significantly reduced dehydration and mortality rates in antibody-treated calves compared to controls in challenge studies (e.g., mortality reduced from 82% to 28%).
- Markedly decreased the severity of E. coli diarrhea in field trials involving dairy calves.
Conclusions:
- Genetically engineered monoclonal antibodies represent a promising therapeutic approach for controlling E. coli-induced diarrhea in calves.
- Oral antibody treatment is effective in reducing morbidity and mortality, improving calf health outcomes.