Enhancing biosecurity in swine operations: Investigating wildlife interactions on swine farms

Mentor:  Dr. Igor Paploski

This project aims to understand and reduce the biosecurity risks associated with wildlife interactions at dead animal handling structures, specifically dead boxes and composting bins, on swine farms. Wildlife activity around these sites may facilitate the spread of diseases, and improving their design could enhance overall farm biosecurity.

The study has four main objectives:

1. Characterize dead animal handling structures by evaluating their design, materials, fencing, roofing, and proximity to barns and roads, as well as estimating how frequently carcasses are added.

2. Document wildlife interactions by identifying visiting species, recording the frequency and duration of visits, and describing behaviors such as carcass contact or removal.

3. Identify risk factors linked to increased wildlife activity, such as structural features, management practices, or environmental conditions.

4. Recommend improvements by developing practical design and management strategies that limit wildlife access and reduce potential disease transmission.

To accomplish these objectives, researchers will collaborate with swine production companies and visit 100 farms to document dead animal handling structures (Objective 1). These farms will represent both rendering and composting systems, split evenly to compare their susceptibility to wildlife visits. Locations will also be assessed in relation to natural features (e.g., forests, rivers) and ecoregions that may influence wildlife abundance.

For Objective 2, motion-activated wildlife cameras will be installed on 30 farms (15 composting and 15 rendering) across Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska. Cameras will record activity for one year, transmitting data via cellular networks. Artificial intelligence models will screen footage to detect animals, minimizing time spent reviewing recording in which no animals appear. Human reviewers will then verify species identity, visit frequency, interaction duration, and behavior.

Objective 3 will analyze these data using Poisson regression models to determine how structure characteristics, management practices, disease status, and seasonality affect wildlife visits. These results will highlight the factors most strongly associated with increased wildlife activity at disposal sites.

Finally, Objective 4 will synthesize all findings to create a checklist of recommended and discouraged features for dead animal handling structures. This checklist will help producers and veterinarians design or modify disposal systems to minimize wildlife interactions and associated biosecurity risks.

The summer scholar activities on this project will involve:

1. Help train an artificial intelligence object detection model (You Only Look Once - YOLO) to detect wildlife visiting dead handling structures

    a. Help setup YOLO;

    b. Stablish a training dataset for YOLO;

    c. Run YOLO on a dataset comprising approximately 5 months of recordings from 30 farms;

    d. Review footage YOLO detects wildlife and describe species, visit frequency, interaction duration, and wildlife behavior on these structures;

2. Describe results on a poster. Results should contain details on AI model setup and on the description of wildlife interactions detected up to that point.

Transforming dairy cattle lameness

Mentor: Dr. Gerard Cramer

Hoof lesions (HL) are the leading cause of lameness in dairy cows and are a major concern within the dairy industry. Hoof lesions negatively impact cow health, welfare, and longevity, as well as farm profitability and environmental sustainability. Considering the decades of lameness research without substantive effects on reducing lameness prevalence, novel approaches are needed. In our previous work we identified multiple areas that require addressing to effect meaningful reductions in on-farm HL prevalence. First, farms have difficulty identifying lameness unless severe, leading to delayed treatment and decreased cure rates. This necessitates more continuous, reliable methods for earlier lameness detection. Moreover, as new cases and chronic cases of HL have different causal factors, these detection methods will require consideration of HL history particularly in genetic and epidemiological studies. Finally, the adoption of new technologies and management approaches requires an understanding of stakeholder perceptions of lameness, challenges related to lameness, and barriers to adoption, and new resources to ensure stakeholders can access the knowledge. 

Our project aims to develop innovative and transformative approaches for early detection and reduction of lameness on US dairy farms. Central to this goal is the implementation of an integrated data framework (IDF) that allows for the automatic collection of autonomous camera-based locomotion scores and HL data as well as further integration with other data streams, such as cow- and herd-level data and genomic data. Our multi-disciplinary team will address current using a collection of novel, innovative approaches carried out across six intertwined objectives. For our objectives, we will use an integrated data framework (IDF) that contains observational data consisting of genomic and pedigree, HL, farm records, and autonomous camera-based locomotion (AUTO) data. Our first objective is to develop genetic evaluations for lameness and HL based on AUTO and HL data. In objective 2, we will investigate the utility of AUTO and HL data as an alternative and more reliable method of assessing lameness status during animal welfare assessments on US dairy farms. In objective 3, we will determine whether trends in AUTO scores can be used to identify cows ‘at risk’ of becoming lame and if this earlier detection and treatment reduces lameness duration and prevalence. To ensure the economic feasibility of AUTO adoption, objective 4 will evaluate the economic impacts of its use. In objective 5, we will ensure the long-term success of our project by engaging farm-level stakeholders and supporting the creation of lameness working groups consisting of farm personnel and farm advisors. 

Using mixed methods, we will evaluate the effectiveness of these groups and understand the support needed to adopt lameness management changes. In our last objective, we will create online resources and bilingual certificate-style courses including hoof trimming schools for farm workers and advisors. Course content will be informed by the knowledge generated in this project. In summary, with support from FFAR and our matching partners, we will deliver new, innovative, and industry-changing tools for reducing lameness on US dairy farms.

Applications of next generation sequencing to veterinary diagnostics

Mentor: Dr. Albert Rovira

The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory currently offers next generation sequencing services (NGS) for characterization of viral and bacterial pathogens, determination of the microbiome, and pathogen discovery. However, the field of NGS is constantly evolving and there is always a need to conduct research to improve current methods and develop new applications to diagnostics. Current projects include an effort to streamline sample and library preparation, miniaturization of the library preparation process and comparison of short read vs long read methods. Future projects will include, among others: 1) development of targeted sequencing methods to detect specific pathogens; 2)investigation of the effect of sample storage conditions on NGS outcomes; 3) comparison of the antimicrobial resistance patterns observed by bacterial growth inhibition methods (phenotypic method) vs those predicted by NGS (genotypic method); and 4) analysis of the genomic diversity of common pathogens of swine including PRRSV, influenza virus, Streptococcus suis or Glaesserella parasuis.  

The scholar will show interest in molecular biology, veterinary diagnostics, bioinformatics and data analysis. Previous experience is not required. The scholar will have an opportunity to learn about other sections of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory such as necropsy, serology, bacteriology, virology, histology or the PCR lab. 

Modern day microbe hunters: Leveraging environmental microbes to combat important veterinary pathogens

Mentor: Dr. Kevin Lang

The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among animal pathogens poses a critical threat to animal health, food safety, and agricultural productivity. Despite progress in stewardship and vaccine development, there remains a pressing need for novel, biologically derived antimicrobials that can be deployed in animal production systems without contributing to resistance in human or veterinary pathogens. Environmental bacteria—particularly those inhabiting soil, plant surfaces, and animal-associated niches—represent an immense and largely untapped reservoir of natural antimicrobial compounds and peptides. Many of these organisms have evolved sophisticated chemical defenses to compete with neighboring microbes, and their biosynthetic gene clusters encode structurally diverse and potent molecules with high specificity. This project seeks to systematically identify, characterize, and translate these naturally occurring antimicrobials into practical interventions for controlling animal pathogens.

The central objective is to isolate environmental bacteria capable of producing antimicrobial compounds that inhibit high-priority animal pathogens, such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. We will conduct a targeted bioprospecting campaign using environmental samples collected from soil, compost, agricultural run-off, plant rhizospheres, and animal facility environments—ecosystems where microbial competition is intense and antimicrobial production is common. From each sample, we will enrich and isolate culturable bacteria using selective and nonselective media, with an emphasis on spore-forming Firmicutes (e.g., Bacillus, Paenibacillus) and Actinobacteria (e.g., Streptomyces) known for prolific natural product biosynthesis.

Isolates will be screened in a high-throughput coculture inhibition pipeline designed to detect secreted antimicrobial activity. Primary assays will include agar overlay screens, microplate-based growth inhibition assays, and co-culture competition assays performed directly against indicator pathogens. Isolates demonstrating inhibitory phenotypes will be prioritized for secondary characterization, including spectrum-of-activity profiling, stability testing (heat, pH, protease sensitivity), and preliminary mode-of-action analyses.

To uncover the molecular basis of inhibition, promising isolates will undergo whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatic mining using platforms such as antiSMASH and BAGEL to identify biosynthetic gene clusters encoding nonribosomal peptides, lanthipeptides, bacteriocins, polyketides, and other antimicrobial classes. Comparative genomics will be integrated with mutagenesis studies to link specific gene clusters to inhibitory activity. Crude extracts or purified fractions will be analyzed via LC-MS/MS and NMR to define chemical structures and assess novelty relative to known compounds.

By integrating environmental microbiology, natural product discovery, and pathogen inhibition assays, this project will expand the pipeline of biologically derived antimicrobial candidates while improving our understanding of microbially mediated competition in agricultural environments. Ultimately, the outcomes will contribute to the development of sustainable, effective, and resistance-limiting strategies to control pathogenic bacteria in animal health settings.

Identifying risk factors for impaired wellbeing in transported dairy calves

Mentor: Dr. Whitney Knauer

In the U.S. dairy industry, about 1 in 10 dairy operations transport calves to be reared at another site (NAHMS, 2014). Transport distance is highly variable, but can involve travel across several states and for many hours. For example, several MN dairy farms transport young calves (between 2-9 days old) to growers in Kansas or Arizona, which can take 12 or 26 hours, respectively.  Such long-distance transport may expose young calves to significant stressors including a variety of handling practices, new environments, commingling with strange calves, fluctuating environmental temperatures, and temporary food or water deprivation, potentially resulting in impaired immune function and wellbeing. 

A limited body of research has identified that older calves and reduced transport times are predictive of better success following arrival at the calf grower. Also, it is recommended that producers provide a milk meal prior to transport, as well as ensure that calves are healthy and fit for transport.  However, research is needed to better understand the impact of transportation on wellbeing after arrival at the calf grower. Furthermore, a recent scoping review (Goetz et al., 2022) identified several knowledge gaps, including identification of best methods for selecting and preparing calves for transportation.  

Our objective is to describe the impact of transportation on replacement calf well-being. A total of 320 dairy calves will be enrolled from one WI calf depot (that receives calves from ~10 source farms) and routinely transport 2-to-6-day old calves to a calf growing site in KS. Immediately prior to transport, we will collect a venous blood sample to measure serum total protein (g/dL; an indicator of colostral immunity), PCV (%; an indicator of hydration), and glucose levels (mg/dL). Additionally, calves will be health-scored for evidence of illness, and the breed, birth weight, age, and farm of origin of the calf recorded. We will also record the temperature-humidity index on the day of transport, as well as transport time (hours). Following arrival at the grower in KS, calves will be health scored again, and blood samples collected to assess hydration status (PCV) and serum glucose levels (mg/dL). Morbidity and mortality events occurring between arrival and weaning and weaning weight will be recorded. Data analysis will explore the relationship between calf characteristics or environmental factors measured prior to transport, and outcomes such as average daily gain and risk for impaired health between arrival at the calf grower and weaning. 

This research will help us to better understand the impacts of long-distance transport on the physiological well-being of young dairy calves. Additionally, this study will help to identify best management practices that producers can adopt when selecting and preparing calves for transportation, in order to maximize calf wellbeing.

Multi-species surveillance of Influenza A virus trends in the UMN Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

Mentors: Dr. Mariana Kikuti and Dr. Talita Resende

Influenza A Virus (IAV) is a pathogen with significant animal and public health implications due to its wide host range, such as swine, poultry, and cattle, as well as companion animals and even wildlife. The constant circulation and potential for interspecies transmission of IAV justifies a robust, real-time surveillance. The UMN Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) processes a large volume of diagnostic submissions and is uniquely positioned to serve as a critical surveillance hub, allowing to better understand complex dynamics of multi-species IAV in submitted cases. This project aims to leverage the extensive, multi-year IAV diagnostic at the UMN VDL to establish multi-species baseline metrics such as positivity rates, subtyping, temporal trends (seasonality), and geographic distribution across the region. 

The student will utilize descriptive epidemiology to identify species-specific patterns in IAV detection. Under the direct supervision of the mentor, the student will develop models to evaluate temporal trends and to identify and map areas of IAV detection across different species. Depending on the student’s interest, they will have the opportunity to spend time with a food animal diagnostician working on influenza-suspect cases to gain perspective on how samples are received and processed at the VDL, ultimately resulting in the dataset that will form the foundation of this project. The final output will be a data-driven report that can be updated frequently for near real-time monitoring of whether influenza activity is increasing or decreasing. The ultimate goal of this project is to improve visualization detailing the macroepidemiological trends of IAV in the region, providing situational awareness for veterinary practitioners and public health officials involved in disease mitigation and biosecurity protocols. The student will gain hands-on experience in epidemiology and develop essential skills in describing disease occurrence in populations, rigorous analysis and interpretation of study findings.

Disease risk analysis for wildlife translocation: assessing baseline health of white-tailed deer as a recipient population of translocated elk

Mentor: Dr. Tiffany Wolf 

The Fond du Lac Band (FDL) of Lake Superior Ojibwe are partnering with the state of Minnesota to translocate elk from northwestern to northeastern Minnesota. Ahead of this, FDL natural resource managers are collaring and collecting biological data from the resident white-tailed deer population to better understand habitat use and health. The goal is to describe baseline health of resident white-tailed deer and compare health parameters between the deer and elk populations to assess disease risks associated with elk translocation. 

In this first year of data collection, the student will describe baseline health characteristics, including CBC, biochemistry, and fecal parasite data. In doing so, the student will learn how to use R and/or other statistical software to assemble, clean and process, and statistically analyze health data. Findings will be contextualized and compared to other white-tailed deer populations and the northwest elk population using the scientific literature and DNR reports. The student will become familiar with approaches to disease risk analysis for wildlife translocation.

Investigating patterns of trematode detection in sandhill cranes, a freshwater marsh ecological indicator species

Mentor: Dr. Tiffany Wolf 

Sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis) serve as an ecological health indicator species as they are found in the same habitats as the introduced Whooping cranes (Grus americana) in the Eastern Migratory population.  The wild Sandhills overlap with other avian species in these habitats and also serve as an indicator for all fifteen crane species that are under our care at the International Crane Foundation Headquarters facility.

The International Crane Foundation (ICF) in Baraboo, WI has fecal diagnostic data from the past 20 years and is starting to see an increase in trematode ova during routine flock fecal exams.  Baseline information on trematode identification and association with snail species has been started with a Summer Scholar 2025 project that we would like to expand into determination of pathogenic versus non-pathogenic species that may be impacting North America crane populations. The 2026 scholar will be validating molecular assays against confirmed trematode species found in snails at our facility and roosting areas in Wisconsin.  This will allow comparison of sensitivity and sensitivity of assays and development of a diagnostic chart for in-house fecal sedimentation.

In addition to adult trematodes and fecal samples already collected and stored, we anticipate being able to collect additional wild Sandhill crane samples.  The state of Wisconsin approves depredation permits for Sandhills that are causing significant damage during corn planting season or interfering with aviation at local airports after failure to deter flocks with hazing or habitat modifications.  The carcasses will be submitted to Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (WVDL, Madison, WI).  The Summer Scholar will be able to assist with crane necropsies and collection of multiple samples for this and additional research projects. These additional projects are evaluating avian malarial species, neonicotinoid accumulation in adult tissues, HPAI sampling, survey for atherosclerosis, plus morphological measurements to establish reference ranges. Opportunistic necropsies on whooping cranes or other species under our care will also be included in the research protocols.

The scholar will also be receiving training from parasitologist at UW – Stevens Point and their affiliated assay laboratory. They will have opportunities to participate in crane exams, bloodwork analysis, sample organization, and data management. There may be opportunities to join the biologists in the field for a capture event. The U Wisconsin -Madison Special Species department has weekly research topic rounds and monthly pathology rounds which are open for online attendance.

Validating and characterizing the phenotypic impact of a leptin receptor variant on dyslipidemia

Mentors: Dr. Eva Furrow

Approximately 50% of adults in the United States have dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Expanding the knowledge of risk factors for dyslipidemia is critical to improving its management and prevention. The Miniature Schnauzer dog has a high prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia, a form of hyperlipidemia. Our work discovered a leptin receptor variant associated with hypertriglyceridemia in Miniature Schnauzers. Our overarching goal is to characterize the phenotypic and molecular effects of the canine leptin receptor variant to strengthen understanding of the role of the leptin receptor in dyslipidemia. An additional goal is to identify additional risk variants for hypertriglyceridemia in the breed to uncover further genetic mechanisms underlying this disease. The summer scholar will work with the PI to select a discrete aim pertaining to this larger goal, tailored to their interests. 

Techniques that might be learned include analysis of whole genome sequencing, prioritization of genetic variants, PCR, electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and analysis of clinical and metabolic data for phenotypic characterization.

Monogenic calcium oxalate stone disorders in pet dogs

Mentors: Dr. Eva Furrow

Calcium oxalate (CaOx) urinary stones are a common and frustrating problem in dogs. It is currently difficult for veterinarians to predict which of their canine patients are at high risk for CaOx stone recurrence and which have a low probability of reforming stones. This unknown is an obstacle to creating individualized stone prevention and monitoring plans. Through whole genome sequencing of dogs with CaOx stones, we discovered 12 high impact variants (aka mutations) in genes responsible for 7 different monogenic stone disorders in humans. This includes primary hyperoxaluria types 1 and 3, Bartter syndrome types 1 and 2, familial hypomagnesemia with hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis, and primary distal renal tubular acidosis. Our preliminary work discovered that one or more of these variants are present at low frequency in at least 80 breeds. Our goal is to recruit and screen dogs of these breeds to estimate the prevalence of each disorder in the breeds' stone-forming population, determine the effect size, and gather data on the clinical presentation. This information will help veterinarians decide who should be tested for these disorders, and it will guide individualized treatment strategies. Results might also help provide information on homologous human variants.

Techniques that might be learned include PCR, electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and analysis of clinical and metabolic data for phenotypic characterization.

Recovery of prion seeding activity from immunohistochemistry slides

Mentor: Dr. Stuart Lichtenberg

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is considered the gold standard for diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases, including prion disease. In IHC, thin (0.5 – 100 µm) sections of fixed tissue are conventionally stained (typically hematoxylin/eosin, cresyl violet, or similar) followed by incubation with a sequence of antibodies: first, a primary antibody targeting a molecule of interest, next, a secondary antibody targeting the primary antibody and bearing a chromogenic compound of some variety. The stained sections are then mounted on glass slides for pathological assessment and/or long-term storage.

Among pathogens, prions are distinctive for (among other things) their remarkable resilience. Prions are resistant to inactivation by most chemical disinfectants, many proteases, conventional autoclaving, and formaldehyde treatment. Similarly, prions remain biologically active in the environment and under diverse storage conditions for time scales that approach decades. As such, prions survive tissue fixation and have been detected in prior studies from paraffin embedded tissue blocks. However, no studies to date have assessed if prions can be recovered from mounted slides used for IHC.

The aim of this project is to demonstrate the recovery of prion seeding activity from IHC slides used in the diagnosis of chronic wasting disease (CWD). Depending on sample availability, variables assessed will include tissue type, sample age, and relative abundance of amyloid staining. CWD positive and negative IHC slides will be imaged using light microscopy to identify the presence or absence of amyloid staining. We will then assess several methods for disassembly of slides, specifically freeze-fracture and solvent dissolution. Samples will then be analyzed using the real-time quaking induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assay. Recovered tissue will be homogenized in RT-QuIC assay sample buffer and analyzed by RT-QuIC.

In completing these experiments, we will be laying the groundwork for several future projects. First, this methodology will form the basis of a proposal to spatially map prion deposition in the retropharyngeal lymph nodes (RPLN) of white-tailed deer, the most common tissue used for CWD diagnosis. Prior work has established that prion deposition in the RPLN is spatially unequal, introducing the possibility of sampling bias. Should we be able to recover seeding activity from IHC slides, it is possible that we could complete this study using existing samples rather than having to collect new samples. Second, we intend to use this work as proof-of-concept that prions present in preserved slides retain their bioactivity, and therefore also retain their structural features. Once this is established, we can then recover prions from slides used in historical or distinctive cases of CWD and other prion diseases. These prions can then be replicated and analyzed for investigations into prion evolution.

Due to the novelty of these methods, it is possible that a publication could result from this project alone. Should this come to pass, the student leading this project would have the opportunity to serve as the first author on the resultant publication. The ideal student for this project will have interest in neurodegenerative disease, pathology, and scientific writing.

Molecular biology research: Tools of the trade and soft skills for success

Mentor: Dr. Kathleen Boris-Lawrie

Molecular biology research underpins clinical veterinary medicine by informing everything from diagnostic tools and targeted therapies to personalized medicine and biotechnology innovations. The Boris-Lawrie lab is dissecting how drugs interact with cellular pathways in cancer and infection for guiding the development of safer and more effective treatments at the cellular level. Summer Scholars will learn lab techniques, utilize computational tools and develop the critical soft skills for success in biomedical research.  

Characterizing species-specific differences in bacterial-host interactions 

Mentors: Dr. Caitlyn Holmes

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a Gram-negative bacterial species that is a leading cause of human and agricultural disease. In humans, K. pneumoniae is the third leading cause of bloodstream infections and the second leading cause of all health care-associated infections. In the agricultural sector, K. pneumoniae is a major cause of bovine mastitis and can lead to chronic inflammation and long-term loss in milk production. In order to better characterize K. pneumoniae pathogenesis, we often rely on mouse models of disease. However, a major limitation to properly modeling Gram-negative bacteremia is that mouse complement is not active again these pathogens, including K. pneumoniae. While active human serum can eliminate most K. pneumoniae strains, mouse serum does not have this property.

In this project, we seek to define why mouse serum is ineffective at Gram-negative bacterial clearance, using K. pneumoniae as the model organism. After identifying this cause, we will neutralize this mechanism in vivo in order to establish a more translational mouse model. We will also explore whether bovine serum is effective at limiting Gram-negative pathogens as this may illuminate new therapeutic options in the agricultural sector and further illuminate species-specific differences in serum defense.

We will test a panel of K. pneumoniae isolates against serum from humans, mice, and cows. We will test the extent to which each species is able to eliminate these strains in active and heat inactivated contexts. We will then mix serums together to determine whether they possess enhancing or inactivating qualities that are cross reactive between species. Lastly, we will use fractionation approaches to define which parts of mouse serum render an ineffective response to K. pneumoniae clearance.

Our study combines both human and animal health to determine species-specific variations in serum killing. This work is both basic in translational in nature, and will provide a platform to better understand the nature of bloodstream infections.

Animal models of pediatric orthopaedic diseases

Mentor: Dr. Ferenc Toth

The primary focus of the lab is to develop large animal models of human orthopaedic disorders. Ongoing projects aim to improve the currently available animal models of Juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (JOCD) and Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCPD). To accomplish these goals the lab evaluates both open and minimally invasive surgical techniques to induce lesions mimicking the human disease then conducts extensive MRI evaluations to follow lesion progression. Final evaluation usually involves histopathology. The lab also has an emerging line of research involving stem cell mediated repair of focal cartilage defects which provides additional opportunities for training.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to participate in surgical procedures, post-operative care of the research animals (mostly pigs), MRI and image processing and data evaluation. The selected applicant will be closely working with the research team during the surgical procedures, peri-operative care and MRI sessions. After the requisite training he/she might perform MRI image analysis and processing on his/her own.

Assessing a piglet model of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD)

Mentor: Dr. Alexandra Armstrong

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD) is a childhood hip disorder that can cause joint deformity and osteoarthritis. LCPD is caused by interruption of blood supply to the developing femoral head, which leads to necrosis of bone marrow, bone, and growth cartilage. It has previously been found that epiphyseal drilling can improve healing of the ishemic femoral head, but the mechanism by which this drilling improves healing is not well understood. Evaluating the tissue types and molecular response to drilling may allow improvements in interventions to better aid healing of osteonecrosis. 

To better understand the effects of drilling on the secondary ossification center, this summer scholars project will analyze various special stains (TRAP for osteoclasts, Masson’s Trichrome, RGB-trichrome) and immunohistochemical stains (Factor-VIII related antigen, caspase-3) from femoral head samples collected following drilling. RNAscope training may also be included to evaluate the presence of RNA transcripts of interest within the tissue. Piglets with surgically induced femoral head ischemia will be imaged with quantitative MRI before and 7, 14, or 21 days after drilling (21, 28, or 35 days post-ischemia), and the summer scholar student will assist with sample collections, decalcification and processing of samples, and image analysis/digital pathology evaluation of the histological changes in the secondary ossification center.

Techniques that will be learned and applied include data collection including gross and histological assessment and interpretation, RNAscope assay, application of software for quantitative analysis (QuPath, Halo, or similar; need working computer), scientific communication (presenting findings and writing up results).

Evaluation of the role of oxidative stress in osteoarthritis using a murine model

Mentor: Dr. Alexandra Armstrong

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease of both humans and many veterinary species with longer lifespans (companion animals), but treatment options to slow the progression of disease continue to be limited. Previous theories suggest that OA is caused by the random accumulation of cellular damage by free radicals, but recent studies propose that disturbances in oxidation and reduction (redox) signaling and subsequent increased oxidative stress play a larger role in the development of disease. To better understand the roles of oxidative stress in development of osteoarthritis, we partner with an MD rheumatologist at the University of North Carolina to characterize transgenic mice with modifications in pathways of oxidative stress. This year, we may be adding RNAscope as a benchtop evaluation of the sections and would provide training to the student in this technique for identifying RNA transcripts of interest within the tissue and evaluating the results. The summer scholar will assist with trimming of mouse tissues, decalcification and processing of samples, and the evaluation of the histological changes in the stifle (knee) joint through semi-quantitative grading and histomorphometry (measuring of structures in the joint digitally). 

Techniques that will be learned and applied include histological sectioning of stifle joints, RNAscope assay, evaluation of the stifle joint histologically with guidance from a trained board-certified anatomic pathologist, application of software for quantitative image analysis (QuPath, Halo, or similar), scientific communication (presenting findings and writing up results).

Role of brain-gut-microbiome axis in hypertension

Mentor: Dr. John Collister

Hypertension is the most significant risk factor for myocardial infarction and stroke, the first and third most frequent cause of death in the United States, and affects 700 million people worldwide.  Despite decades of research, the underlying cause of hypertension in most cases remains unknown.  New strategies are required to control high blood pressure and in the present project, we will examine the role of the gut microbiome on blood pressure regulation in two animal models of hypertension. The study of the gut microbiome in pathophysiological states is an area of intense research and there is limited information in the literature on the link between the microbiome and hypertension.  

Our lab has demonstrated a role of the central hypothalamic subfornical organ (SFO) in the hypertensive response to both Angiotensin II (AngII) and DOCA (water soluble form of aldosterone) treated rats.  We now propose a MnPO-gut microbiome axis in the pathogenesis of hypertension. We will examine the intestinal microbiome in two rodent models of hypertension in MnPO lesioned and control rats to address the following AIMs:  1) What are the effects on the microbiome in chronic hypertensive rats? 2) Does SFO lesion restore the microbiome while attenuating hypertension in the rat? 3) Does ileal transplantation from SFO lesioned rats prevent or treat hypertension?  The following hypothesis will be tested:  SFO lesion prevents the changes in gut microbiota and increased blood pressure in hypertensive rats. In order to test this hypothesis, MnPO lesioned instrumented rats will be treated with either AngII or DOCA, and cross-transplanted with ileal content during the hypertensive treatment.  Continuous measurements of blood pressure will be made via radio-telemetry.  Direct microbiota analyses from jejunum, ileum, cecum and colon will be performed.

Training will begin with the surgical procedures involved with chronic instrumentation of the rat.  Students will learn one or more of the following techniques: lesion of central brain nuclei using stereotaxic surgery, placement of a chronic indwelling femoral IV and ileal catheters, and/or placement of the blood pressure transducer catheter in the abdominal aorta, as well as anesthesia, general surgical aseptic technique and monitoring of the surgical patient during anesthesia.  Students will learn daily metabolic measurements of rodents housed in metabolic cages, computer data compilation of continuous collections of heart rate and blood pressure data via radio telemetry.  Lastly, students will learn the proper techniques of euthanizing experimental rats, and harvesting brain and gut tissues for histological and microbial genomic analyses, respectively.

Understanding Fc receptors on canine leukocytes for cancer therapies

Mentor: Dr. Bruce Walcheck

Our lab is actively involved in developing cancer immunotherapies for humans and companion animals. A current focus is on manipulating and engineering human and canine leukocytes to enhance their recognition and killing of tumor cells. Of interest are Fc receptors (FcRs) that recognize antibodies attached to cancer cells. The FcR CD64 is key receptor involved in this process in humans, but little is known about its function in dogs. We were the first to generate a monoclonal antibody to canine CD64 in order to study its expression and function (DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.841859). For the summer project, we will investigate the role of CD64 on canine leukocytes in attaching to and killing cancer cells. The summer scholar will be involved in these novel studies to help advance our goal of developing effective immunotherapies for cancer in dogs. 

Techniques the summer scholar will be exposed to include tumor cell killing assays, canine leukocyte isolation and characterization, cell culture, and flow cytometry among others.

Comparing DNA extraction techniques for studying the canine urinary microbiome

Mentor: Dr. Emily Coffey

The presence of commensal urinary microbial communities (i.e., the urobiome) has been established in both humans and dogs, and these urinary microbes likely contribute to urinary system health and various disease states. However, the low biomass nature of urine creates challenges when isolating microbial DNA for sequencing and also increases vulnerability to contamination. Human guidelines recommend using automated techniques to isolate DNA from low-biomass urine samples, but these recommendations have not been validated for veterinary applications. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to evaluate how automated DNA extraction compares to manual DNA extraction methods when processing canine urine samples for downstream microbiome analysis. A secondary objective is to determine whether the experience level of the individual performing extractions influences observed differences between extraction methods. By directly comparing the yield, purity, and sequencing outcomes between automated and manual extractions, this project will help determine whether automation improves reproducibility and DNA recovery from canine urine. 

Research to establish best practices for urine collection and processing is largely lacking, particularly in the veterinary space. Together, these results will provide valuable data to guide best practices for canine urobiome research and expand our understanding of how methodological choices impact microbial profiling outcomes. Our lab also conducts a variety of related studies investigating the canine urobiome and urinary health, and students will have the opportunity to learn about and participate in these projects if interested.

Sequencing results from this study will be available by the start of the summer program. Students will gain experience with microbiome data analyses, using bioinformatic tools such as QIIME2, Dada2, Decontam, phyloseq, and more. Students will also learn general principles related to microbiome research, DNA extraction, and the sample processing techniques used in this study. While this project is focused on urobiome research methodology, the summer scholar will also learn about clinical aspects of urobiome health in dogs. If interested and if time allows, the student is also welcome to assist with other related projects.

Enhanced recovery protocols for primates: Refining peri-procedural care in biomedical research

Mentor: Dr. Melanie Graham

Medical procedures, including those requiring sedation or anesthesia, are known to cause physiological and psychological stress in animals, which can adversely affect recovery, compromise animal welfare, and introduce confounding variables into research data. In primates, interventions like physical examinations, imaging procedures, or surgical events can disrupt normal behavior, social dynamics, and homeostasis. These disruptions are not only welfare concerns but also represent potential threats to the reproducibility and translational relevance of scientific outcomes. In human medicine, Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have revolutionized perioperative care by integrating evidence-based, multimodal strategies to reduce surgical stress, support faster return to baseline function, and improve patient outcomes. These protocols recognize that the experience of surgery extends beyond the operating room and that recovery is influenced by a continuum of care beginning well before the procedure and continuing through convalescence. Inspired by this paradigm, the current study proposes the development and implementation of Enhanced Recovery Protocols (ERPs) tailored to primates undergoing anesthesia and surgical or procedural interventions in research settings. The goal is to translate and adapt core ERAS principles to improve the peri-procedural experience of primates, reduce negative effects associated with sedation and anesthesia, and promote more rapid and complete recovery.

This project aims to:

   • Develop species-appropriate, evidence-based enhanced recovery protocols for primates.

   • Evaluate the impact of ERPs on key indicators of animal welfare and recovery.

   • Provide refinements that enhance both scientific quality and welfare in biomedical research.

The student will be involved in the design, implementation, and analysis of a multimodal, peri-procedural care pathway. This will include participation in pre-, intra-, and post-procedural phases of animal care and recovery. Key elements of the project include:

• Assisting with baseline health and behavior assessments

• Participating in behavioral habituation and positive reinforcement training (PRT) to reduce procedural anxiety

• Supporting modifications to fasting protocols and pre-procedure enrichment

• Observing and documenting anesthetic techniques, including multimodal analgesia

• Assisting with intraoperative monitoring of physiological parameters (heart rate, oxygenation, thermoregulation)

• Recording procedural variables relevant to recovery outcomes

• Conducting structured behavioral observations to monitor recovery

• Collecting data on time to ambulation, feeding, grooming, and other species-typical behaviors

• Monitoring and documenting reintegration into social housing

• Supporting the analysis of stress-related biomarkers 

• Recording and analyzing data related to recovery time, adverse events, behavioral normalization, and welfare indicators

• Assisting in statistical analysis to compare conventional vs. enhanced recovery approaches

• Contributing to the refinement of ERP protocols based on collected outcomes

This hands-on research experience will expose the student to applied animal welfare science, translational research methods, and refinement-focused protocol development. The student will gain skills in behavioral observation, animal handling (as appropriate), perioperative care, and data-driven refinement techniques.

Quantitative MRI of canine Intervertebral Disc Disease (pre-matched)

Mentor: Dr. Casey Johnson

The objective of this project is to evaluate the health of intervertebral discs, vertebral bodies, and spinal cord in client-owned dogs with spontaneous IVDD using advanced quantitative MRI. I hypothesize that T2 and T2* relaxation times will decrease as discs become more degenerated, and that spinal cord integrity—measured by fractional anisotropy (FA)—will be reduced near the site of herniation compared to distant, unaffected regions. This project will also explore whether vertebral marrow fat fraction is associated with adjacent disc degeneration, as this may play a role in disc nutrition and pathology. 

Identification of risk factors for Thoroughbred racehorses with exercise associated sudden death (EASD) (pre-matched)

Mentor: Dr. Sian Durward-Akhurst

Sudden death has a devastating impact on the racing industry and there are major safety concerns. Of the hundreds of horses that die on the track each year, the cause of death is not identified for 47% of them. Cardiac arrhythmias are thought to explain a large number of these cases. Most horses that develop arrhythmias have no underlying structural heart disease, making it virtually impossible to detect those that will develop arrhythmias. Very little is known about what contributes to the development of these arrhythmias. The goal of this study is to identify risk factors for EASD by comparing the racing, performance, and veterinary history of EASD cases and controls. Identification of risk factors for EASD will improve our understanding of how EASD develops and can lead to prevention strategies to mitigate EASD risk. 

KLF2 as a cell cycle sentry in lymphocytes (pre-matched)

Mentor: Dr. Jaime Modiano

KLF2 is a critical regulator of cell cycle entry in lymphocytes that appears to be silenced in mantle cell lymphomas. For this project, we will assess mechanisms through which KLF2 controls cell cycle entry in lymphocytes using genetic and molecular tools.

Defining the environmental and physiological contributors to the onset of periocular inflammatory disease in turkey breeder hens

Mentor:  Dr. Kahina Boukherroub 

Scholar: Mikayla Schlosser

In recent years, a growing number of turkey breeder farms have reported cases of periocular inflammatory disease—referred to by veterinarians as blepharitis—in hens, raising significant concerns for both animal welfare and farm productivity. Blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid, often begins with symptoms resembling mild upper respiratory illness but can escalate to severe outcomes such as blindness, lethargy, and anorexia. Current treatments, including antimicrobials and anti-inflammatories, have shown limited and inconsistent effectiveness, highlighting the urgent need for a better understanding of this condition. This project seeks to investigate the environmental and physiological risk factors contributing to the onset and progression of blepharitis, evaluate its prevalence within flocks, and uncover potential underlying causes. The findings will be instrumental in developing targeted, science-based interventions that improve hen health, enhance on-farm management strategies, and support the sustainability and resilience of the turkey breeding industry. 

Pre-transportation risk factors impacting well-being in long-haul transported replacement dairy calves

Mentors: Dr. Sandra Godden and Dr. Whitney Knauer

Scholar: Emma Prybylski

As long-distance transportation of young dairy calves becomes more common in modern farming to improve labor efficiency, concerns around calf welfare, including increased stress, immune suppression, and disease risk during the critical pre-weaning period, are also rising. Transporting calves in the first days of life has been linked to impaired immune function and elevated morbidity and mortality, posing both ethical and economic challenges. This study aims to assess the effects of long-haul transport on calf health and immune function by measuring key biological markers before and after transportation. It will also explore the innate immune response to external stimuli as a potential predictor of health outcomes. The findings will support the development of evidence-based management strategies to enhance calf welfare, reduce health complications, and guide producers in selecting and preparing calves for transport—ultimately fostering sustainable, welfare-focused dairy practices.

Exploring associations between changes in activity levels measured by wearable sensors and lameness occurrence in dairy cattle

Mentor: Dr. Gerard Cramer

Scholar: Saniya Keeton

Lameness, a condition causing difficulty in walking due to injury, weakness, or disease in the legs or feet, is a significant welfare issue for cattle and a major concern for the dairy industry. It negatively impacts both cow health and farm profitability, but traditional detection methods, such as visual locomotion scoring, are subjective and time-consuming, often delaying intervention. Recent advancements in wearable sensors and autonomous monitoring systems offer an opportunity for more accurate and timely lameness detection. This research aims to bridge the gap between technology and management by integrating data from wearable sensors with locomotion scores and other cow-specific variables to improve diagnostic accuracy. The project will explore whether activity pattern variations from wearable sensors correlate with lameness events, how activity levels change during lactation, and develop predictive models to classify lameness using activity data and cow-specific information.

Evaluating the feasibility and diagnostic applications of large-scale non-invasive testing of air emissions samples from swine farms 

Mentor: Dr. Maria Pieters

Scholar: Timothy Magdall 

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) virus has caused significant production challenges for swine farmers, making virus prevention and effective detection critical for minimizing its impact. Traditionally, blood and oral fluid samples are collected from herds after indications of a PRRS outbreak, but air emission sampling has shown potential as a comparable alternative. This method could improve sampling practicality and potentially increase diagnostic accuracy, leading to faster identification and more timely treatment interventions. Early detection enables targeted strategies that can enhance swine welfare and improve pork production. This project aims to assess the feasibility and diagnostic reliability of air emission sampling for PRRS detection. It will also explore prevention strategies based on data gathered from air emissions, aiming to determine the practical application of this method in real-world swine farming systems and propose strategies to reduce financial losses and improve pork production outcomes.

Surveillance network for chytrid fungi in amphibians

Mentor: Dr. Amy Kinsley

Scholar: Emily Banks

Amphibians play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity, yet they are increasingly threatened by infectious diseases, particularly those caused by invasive fungal pathogens. Some of the greatest threats to biodiversity and amphibian conservation are the introduction of the chytrid fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) and the continued spread of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). This research project aims to conduct proactive surveillance for Bsal and Bd through environmental and host sampling to detect low-density infections. Findings will be used to develop a comprehensive risk model that incorporates climate change projections to better understand future disease and species distribution. Developing a risk model to support decision-making around management in the event of an introduction will prevent chytrid fungus from having immense repercussions on amphibian biodiversity and devastating ecosystem effects.

Prion aerosolization via dust particles as a possible route of transmission for Chronic Wasting Disease

Mentor: Dr. Peter Larsen 

Scholar: Lauren Wolfrath

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a highly resilient and fatal prion disease affecting deer and elk populations across North America, with growing concern over its environmental spread and potential cross-species transmission. Infected animals shed prions through bodily waste, contaminating the environment and raising questions about new modes of transmission, particularly via aerosolized dust, as observed in Scrapie, another prion disease. This study aims first to investigate whether CWD prions can bind to dust particles and become airborne, which would significantly expand our understanding of disease transmission pathways and associated risks to wildlife, livestock, and potentially humans. The second objective is to assess the feasibility of detecting airborne prions using air filtration systems in both CWD-positive and CWD-negative environments across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and possibly Texas. Results from this research could have far-reaching implications for disease surveillance, environmental management, and public health.

The clinical presentation and prognosis of lead poisoning in Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) 

Mentor: Dr. Dana Franzen-Klein

Scholar: Mary Holmes

Human activity has made lead one of the most prevalent environmental toxins, posing a significant threat to birds of prey, including bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). At The Raptor Center (TRC) at the University of Minnesota, over 85% of bald eagles admitted each year show detectable blood lead levels. Lead poisoning in eagles causes severe, irreversible damage to the central nervous system and other organ systems, yet wildlife rehabilitation centers often face challenges in resource allocation due to limited veterinary time and staff. Without an effective triage protocol, valuable resources may be spent on cases with low survival chances, prolonging unnecessary suffering. This project aims to expand TRC’s lead dataset to better understand how clinical parameters predict the outcome of lead poisoning cases in bald eagles. The ultimate goal is to create a clinical algorithm, in the form of a flowchart, that will guide wildlife veterinarians in making informed decisions on whether to treat or humanely euthanize eagles, ultimately improving resource use and animal welfare at wildlife rehabilitation centers.

Supporting the use of veterinary epidemiology in the decision-making process for veterinary services in Latin America 

Mentor: Dr. Andres Perez

Scholar: Andrea Pacheco Soto

Globalization has greatly increased the spread of transboundary diseases, with the rapid movement of people, animals, and goods across borders facilitating the transmission of infectious agents. Diseases such as Cochliomyia hominivorax, H5N1 bird flu, and African Swine Fever pose significant threats to both public health and the global economy. While the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of epidemiology, a deeper understanding of the factors driving disease spread and pathogenesis is essential to improve diagnostics and preventive measures for various diseases. Many veterinary services in Latin America, however, face challenges in fully utilizing veterinary epidemiology to inform decision-making. This project seeks to strengthen veterinary epidemiology in Latin America by improving data collection, analysis, and reporting systems to enhance surveillance and risk assessment. This will be done through partnering with CAHFS to support the ProgRESSVet capstone initiative, first reviewing existing educational materials and then collaborating with a selected country to address emerging transboundary animal diseases. By bolstering the availability and quality of epidemiological data, the project will support evidence-based decisions aimed at improving disease prevention, control, and management.

A new treatment towards feline osteoarthritis

Mentor: Dr. Alonso Guedes

Scholar: Kat Velez

Osteoarthritis (OA) is among the most prevalent chronic and painful conditions affecting dogs and cats, yet effective and safe treatment options remain limited. Currently, cyclooxygenase inhibitors are the primary treatment option for managing OA pain in many species. However, these drugs can cause significant side effects and are not approved for long-term use in cats. This creates a pressing need to identify new analgesic solutions suitable for long-term use in cats. Building on promising results from the Guedes lab using soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitors to manage OA-related pain and mobility issues in dogs and horses, this study aims to determine the effects of sEH inhibition on mobility and quality of life in cats with naturally occuring OA and to determine the contribution of sEH to apoptosis of feline chondrocytes. The findings of this study could have a transformative impact by generating essential data to support the development of a novel treatment for feline OA, with the potential for rapid clinical application given that an sEH inhibitor is already in early-phase human trials for neuropathic pain.

Characterization of ion channel genetic variation in animal models of sudden cardiac arrest

Mentor: Dr. Sian Durward-Akhurst

Scholar: Regina Kurandina

Fatal arrhythmias are a significant cause of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in otherwise healthy individuals across species, including humans, horses, and dogs. Particularly concerning are cases of SCA without underlying structural heart disease, as they occur without warning and are nearly impossible to prevent. While genetics are known to play a key role, their contribution remains poorly understood, especially in equine and canine populations. This research builds on a 2024 genome-wide association study of Thoroughbred racehorses to identify and characterize genetic variants in ion channels and related genes across diverse horse and dog breeds. This translational work not only aims to shed light on the genetic underpinnings of SCA in animals but also holds potential to clarify the pathogenicity of variants of uncertain significance in human medicine.

Histological and histomorphometric evaluation of healing in a piglet model of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Mentor: Dr. Alex Armstrong

Scholar: Ashton Amann

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) is a pediatric hip disorder caused by interrupted blood flow to the developing femoral head, leading to osteonecrosis, bone marrow damage, and cartilage injury, often resulting in long-term joint deformities and osteoarthritis. Although epiphyseal drilling has shown promise in enhancing healing of the ischemic femoral head, the biological mechanisms behind its effectiveness remain unclear. This project aims to investigate the gross and microscopic (radiologic vs histologic) responses to drilling in a piglet model at 1, 2, and 3 weeks post-procedure. To better understand the effects of drilling on the secondary ossification center, this study will apply various special stains (TRAP, Masson’s Trichrome) and immunohistochemical stains (Factor VIII–Related Antigen, Caspase-3) to femoral head samples collected following drilling. The primary objective of this proposal is to utilize histological staining techniques to evaluate certain biological processes following epiphyseal drilling. Quantification of each stain will further our understanding of the regeneration processes within boney tissues and will be compared to findings found on MRI to potentially inform treatment of LCPD at various time points.

Big data for small animals: Using a large national medical records database to understand current treatments and outcomes for bacterial pneumonia in dogs 

Mentors: Dr. Emma Bolig and Dr. Jen Granick

Scholar: Matt Bermudez

Large-scale analysis of companion animal health data is often limited by the lack of standardized diagnostic coding and the complexity of accessing data across diverse veterinary electronic health record (EHR) systems. The Companion Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network (CAVSNET) addresses these challenges by aggregating data from multiple U.S. veterinary practices into a centralized, secure database using a common data model to support research and disease surveillance. This project leverages the power of big data to study antimicrobial prescribing patterns for bacterial pneumonia in dogs—a condition central to antimicrobial stewardship efforts. By comparing current prescribing practices with the guidelines set forth by the International Society of Companion Animal Infectious Diseases, the study will assess veterinarian adherence and identify deviations. These insights will help guide targeted educational initiatives to promote responsible antimicrobial use among small animal veterinarians, ultimately supporting better health outcomes and antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary medicine.

Animal models of pediatric orthopaedic diseases

Mentor: Dr. Ferenc Toth

Scholar: Callie Hohenhaus

Juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (JOCD) and Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCPD) are orthopedic conditions affecting children and young adults, causing pain, disability, and increasing the risk of osteoarthritis later in life. This project aims to develop porcine models to better understand these disorders and explore potential treatments. The JOCD study will use a piglet model to examine the relationship between ischemia in epiphyseal cartilage and the progression of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Additionally, it will investigate how different biomechanical stressors, such as high-impact loading, may trigger OCD lesions and whether low-impact loading can facilitate healing. The LCPD component will involve inducing ischemic injury to the femoral head in piglets, replicating the condition seen in LCPD, to study the repair process. The study will compare the effects of single and double-vessel embolization on necrosis, revascularization, and new bone growth in the hip joint, providing insights into the mechanisms of repair and potential therapeutic approaches for these pediatric orthopedic disorders.

Neuroinflammation following traumatic brain injury alters neural circuitry and associated behavior in a murine model

Mentor: Dr. Maxim Cheeran

Scholar: Daniela Salinas

Concussion, a common form of mild-traumatic brain injury (mTBI), typically results in full recovery without significant central nervous system effects, unless repeated injuries occur. Athletes and service members are particularly vulnerable to repeated mTBIs, which are increasingly linked to the development of substance use disorders (SUD). This study aims to explore the relationship between repeated mTBIs and the onset of substance use disorders by examining neural network changes caused by neuroinflammation in a murine model. The study will involve inducing mTBIs in mice through cortical impact injury to the medial prefrontal cortex, followed by behavioral testing to assess addiction-like behaviors. The presence of neuroinflammation will be quantified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemistry on brain tissue samples, aiming to uncover how mTBIs may contribute to SUD development.

Characterizing genetic variants that increase urinary stone risk in pet dogs to improve understanding of canine and human urinary disease

Mentor: Dr. Eva Furrow

Scholar: Rachel Cheung

Kidney stones are a painful health issue affecting 9% of the population and leading to annual healthcare costs exceeding $10 billion in the United States. Despite available treatments, the prevention and recurrence rates for kidney stones remain problematic. Similarly, dogs are susceptible to urinary stone disease (urolithiasis), with calcium oxalate (CaOx) stones being the most common and challenging to manage due to their inability to be medically dissolved and their high recurrence rates. The causes of CaOx urolithiasis are multifactorial, influenced by environmental factors and genetics. Previous whole genome sequencing of dogs has identified genetic variants related to monogenic stone disorders in specific breeds. By analyzing genomic data from mice and human models, several monogenic disorders have been linked to stone formation. This study aims to expand on these findings by characterizing the clinical and metabolic phenotypes of known monogenic stone disorders and identifying additional novel genetic variants responsible for stone formation in pet dogs.

Role of gut microbiome in 2 models of hypertension

Mentor: Dr. John Collister

Scholar: Jacob Sternbach

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for myocardial infarction and stroke, the first and third most common causes of death in the United States, affecting 700 million people globally. Despite extensive research, the exact cause of hypertension remains largely unidentified. The role of the gut microbiome in various pathophysiological conditions, including hypertension, has gained attention, but limited research exists on their connection. The purpose of this project is to better understand the role of the brain lesion procedure in the differences seen in the gut microbiome of a rat in order to untangle the effects of the procedure and the effects of the hypertension model. The study aims to determine the impact of targeted brain lesions of the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis or median preoptic nucleus on the gut microbiome in rats.

Quantitative MRI of canine Intervertebral Disc Disease

Mentor: Dr. Casey Johnson

Scholar: Abigail Clanton

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a debilitating condition in dogs, causing spinal cord and nerve compression, resulting in chronic pain, paralysis, and incontinence. Current MRI techniques are insufficient for identifying problematic discs or detecting early degenerative changes, limiting proactive treatment options. While advanced quantitative MRI has shown promise in human medicine for assessing disc health and spinal cord injury, these techniques have not been fully explored in canine patients with spontaneous IVDD. This project aims to develop and validate advanced quantitative MRI methods for dogs, correlating MRI biomarkers with clinical signs to differentiate between acute and chronic disc herniation. It will also explore vertebral body changes near degenerated discs to predict future herniation, laying the groundwork for longitudinal studies on IVDD progression and novel therapeutic interventions. The research seeks to provide critical insights into disease management for both dogs and humans.

Evaluating the urinary microbiome in dogs

Mentor: Dr. Emily Coffey

Scholar: Sophie Ramirez

Dysbiosis in the urobiome may play a role in the development of various diseases that affect both humans and dogs, including urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, and urolithiasis. Understanding the microbial communities within the urinary tract through genetic analysis can offer insights into disease predisposition and inform treatment strategies. Advances in microbial analysis techniques, such as PCR and next-generation sequencing, have made studying the urobiome more efficient and comprehensive, yet there is still a lack of standardized protocols for DNA extraction and urobiome characterization, particularly in canine studies. This study aims to investigate whether variations in urine sample volume influence DNA concentration, sequence reads, and bacterial diversity in canine urobiomes. It will also compare the effectiveness of different urine sample processing techniques (filtration versus centrifugation and pelleting) on obtaining accurate microbial data. The findings could establish best practices for urobiome characterization in dogs, offering valuable insights into the role of microbial communities in urinary health.

Altering the aged sarcoma microenvironment to enhance immunotherapy

Mentor: Dr. Erin Dickerson

Scholar: Rachel Kendrick-Schwartz

Angiosarcoma (AS) is a rare and aggressive cancer affecting mainly older adults, with limited treatment options and poor survival rates. While some patients respond to PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors, many do not—potentially due to age-related immune decline. CD8+ memory T cells, critical for cancer immunity, show increased PD-1 and β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) expression with age, leading to reduced function. This study aims to evaluate whether combining β-AR inhibitors with PD-1 blockade can more effectively reactivate these aged T cells. By analyzing receptor expression and testing combined treatments in vitro, the project seeks to enhance immune responses in older individuals and improve outcomes for AS patients.

Advancing translational research: Immunometabolic pathways model refinement and animal welfare in health and disease 

Mentor: Dr. Melanie Graham

Scholar: Ellie Lindauer

Medical procedures are known to cause stress in animals, which can have effects on, fear and anxiety, health outcomes, and quality of life. In laboratory settings, addressing the welfare of the animals used is crucial, as stress attributed to medical procedures can ultimately harm study results, requiring the use of more animals. While studies have shown that sedation can increase stress by requiring fasting and inducing side effects by the drug used, sedation also requires the animal to be away from social groups for a period of time during recovery. Social groups are vital to non-human primates and disruption of this has been shown to elicit feelings of social isolation, disturb social dynamics, and affect the other members of the group, even if they are not the ones getting medical procedures. This study aims to investigate whether the removal of an individual primate for sedation elicits a measurable stress response in the rest of the group. By monitoring behavioral and physiological indicators, the project will evaluate how such disruptions affect group welfare. Identifying and mitigating these controllable sources of stress can help researchers refine laboratory practices to improve animal welfare, reduce variability in scientific data, and potentially decrease the number of animals needed for research.

Advancing UTI diagnostics in companion animals with enhanced quantitative urine culture

Mentor: Dr. Hemant Naikare

Scholar: Katia Bastunskaya

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in cats and dogs and can be recurrent or severe, making accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment and responsible antibiotic use. Traditional urine culture methods often fall short, with many UTI cases yielding “no growth” results despite ongoing infection. This study aims to evaluate an enhanced quantitative urine culture technique to improve detection of microbial agents in urine samples. By integrating advanced diagnostic tools, the project seeks to enhance UTI diagnosis and treatment in companion animals and contribute to better understanding and management of antimicrobial resistance in veterinary medicine.