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Control of Mycoplasma pulmonis infection in rats and mice: detection and elimination vs. vaccination
Abstract:
Respiratory and genital mycoplasmoses, due to Mycoplasma pulmonis, are major intercurrent disease problems in laboratory rats and mice. Recent surveys indicate that M. pulmonis infection remains a common problem, not only in conventionally maintained colonies, but also in cesarean-derived, barrier-maintained animals. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been established for detection of anti-M. pulmonis IgG antibodies. When compared in extensive field test to other available diagnostic methods, the ELISA was found to be superior for routine diagnosis due to its sensitivity, specificity and rapidity, and there is no need for animal sacrifice, Ideally, detection via ELISA, elimination of infected animals, and prevention of reinfection by barrier housing is the best method for disease control. While this is a rational approach in production colonies and certain research stocks, it is impractical, if not impossible, in many research institutions due to current management practices. Thus, there is a critical need for alternative methods of control in these populations. Both rats and mice can be protected via immunization: therefore, vaccination appears to be a viable alternative. Remaining questions to be answered include: the most effective route of immunization, most effective immunogen, duration of protection, and vaccine efficacy in field use.
Insights
Mycoplasma pulmonis infections are common in lab rodents. An ELISA test is a sensitive and rapid diagnostic tool, but vaccination may be a more practical control method for many research settings.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Respiratory and genital mycoplasmoses caused by Mycoplasma pulmonis are significant health issues in laboratory rats and mice.
- Mycoplasma pulmonis infections persist in both conventional and barrier-maintained rodent colonies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate diagnostic methods for Mycoplasma pulmonis in laboratory rodents.
- To explore alternative control strategies for mycoplasmoses in research animal populations.
Main Methods:
- Development and field testing of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting anti-M. pulmonis IgG antibodies.
- Comparison of ELISA with other diagnostic techniques for sensitivity, specificity, and speed.
- Assessment of vaccination as a potential alternative control method.
Main Results:
- The developed ELISA demonstrated superior sensitivity, specificity, and rapidity compared to existing diagnostic methods.
- ELISA allows for diagnosis without the need to sacrifice animals.
- Vaccination has shown protective capabilities in both rats and mice, indicating its potential as a viable control strategy.
Conclusions:
- ELISA is an effective tool for routine diagnosis of Mycoplasma pulmonis infections.
- While ELISA combined with elimination and prevention is ideal, it's often impractical in research settings.
- Vaccination presents a promising alternative for controlling mycoplasmoses in laboratory rodents, though further research on optimal protocols is needed.