In vitro model to study the resistance of the equine roundworm

Background

Equine roundworm is a common parasite in Swedish stud farms where it infects foals. Foals are usually treated for roundworm regularly without prior faecal sampling, but in recent years the parasite has developed resistance to all available deworming agents.

Goal

The aim of this thesis is to develop a method to study incipient resistance using the infectious stage of roundworm larvae, and to develop a diagnostic to detect incipient resistance before it becomes a threat to foal health.

Project description

Faecal samples from stud farms with known resistance status will be used. Larvae will be exposed to drugs and the effect will be studied by using a fluorescent substrate as a measure of larval viability after exposure. 

Specifications

None for this project. Welcome with your application!