Epidemiology and Population Biology
Moredun’s Research historically focused on individual host-pathogen interactions. To promote the understanding of infectious diseases at the population level, the Division of Epidemiology and Population Biology (EPB) was established in 2007. EPB encompasses veterinarians, immunologists, immunogeneticists and epidemiologists who strive to explore diversity in populations of pathogens and livestock hosts. Our aim is to determine how diversity impacts on disease transmission, pathogenesis and control. This will help us to develop targeted and cost-effective disease control measures. Healthy animals are more productive than diseased animals. Thus, disease control contributes to maintenance of food security whilst limiting the carbon footprint of animal agriculture.
Many diseases occur where viruses, bacteria or parasites interact with the host mucosa. Together with colleagues in the pathogen-specific Divisions and the Immunology Theme, we contribute to improved understanding of processes at this interface between the outside world and the animal body. Insight into mucosal immunity may provide clues to novel preventive or therapeutic interventions. With its MHC-defined sheep flock, Moredun has a unique animal resource for dissecting mechanisms of protective immunity. Through population level studies, we explore the association between genes involved in recognition and control of the immune responses and resistance to important infectious diseases in cattle and sheep. Examples of such diseases include mastitis, Johne's disease and Jaagsiekte (ovine pulmonary adenocarcenoma).
We also characterise the genetic composition of pathogen populations, which provides a better understanding of the relation between pathogen genotype, disease phenotype and disease transmission. Moredun is a member of the Scottish Government’s Centre of Excellence in Epidemiology, Population Health and Infectious Disease Control (EPIC). EPB is responsible for the molecular epidemiology or “DNA fingerprinting” module. Initial work with Moredun and EPIC partners focussed on pneumonic pasteurellosis in calves. Similar projects are ongoing in the areas of bovine mastitis, protozoan parasites and streptococcosis of fish.
EPB scientists and staff are actively involved in knowledge exchange activities, both within and out with the Institute, and interact on a regular basis with farmers, veterinarians, scientists, policy makers and the public in Scotland and abroad.