Our research is focussed on the development of novel diagnostic tools, along with studies on the immune responses as well as epidemiology and sustainable control of major internal and external parasites of animals, including those that are zoonotic. In our unit emphasis has mainly been placed on studies of parasitic protozoa (apicomplexans) and nematodes (strongylids and ascaroids) of ruminants, horses and poultry.Currently the activities comprise 3 major research lines conducted both in Sweden and in developing countries.
• One line is sustainable control methods of nematode parasites of cattle and horses. Linked to this are studies on the population genetics and transmission biology of nematode parasites and issues related to the development of anthelmintic resistance. The aim is to meet the requirements of sustainable livestock management, where large-scale routine treatment with anti-parasitic drugs is not an option.
• A second line encompasses immunological aspects, such as investigations of immune responses to the cattle lungworm and design and evaluation of experimental vaccines against Neospora and Toxoplasma.
• A third line is oriented towards bioinformatics. One major aim is to investigate the appropriate methods for analyzing the types of data collected in parasitology experiments in both the laboratory and the field. This includes novel applications of existing methods as well as development of new methods. Another major objective is to study the origin and biodiversity of parasites of veterinary importance, especially those in Sweden.