The All-Russian State Center for Quality and Standardization of Veterinary Medicines and Feeds (FSBI VGNKI) has started the second phase of research to create an innovative oral form of antitoxic serum for the treatment of escherichiosis in farm animals. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of the new remedy in protecting farm animals from this dangerous infection.
The aim of the project, funded by the Russian Science Foundation (grant No. 24-26-00202), is to create a dry form of the drug based on silicon dioxide. The oral formulation, in contrast to current injectable serums, aims to provide swift and easy prevention and treatment, especially for neonates in the initial days of life.
Additionally, based on data collected during the project, the new formulation of the drug will enable revisions to storage conditions and enhance its stability, thereby facilitating transportation.
In 2024, VGNKI scientists studied the properties of E. coli strains and demonstrated the effectiveness of silicon dioxide-immobilized serum against them by comparing it to its liquid form. This year, their work will focus on evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of the drug in animals.
Escherichiosis, also known as colibacteriosis, is an intestinal infection caused by pathogenic strains of E. coli, particularly affecting young animals, fur-bearing animals, and birds. This disease is a significant concern for animal husbandry due to the economic losses it inflicts through animal deaths and reduced productivity.
Currently, existing injectable serums do not provide protection to animals during the first two weeks of life—the most vulnerable period. It is anticipated that the outcomes of this project will enhance the prevention and treatment of the disease and serve as a foundation for future research on zoonotic disease prevention.
