Work to understand the genetic structure of Rhodococcus equi may lead to new measures to control disease in foals. Understanding the complex mechanisms used by the bacteria to cause disease may reveal the microbe’s “Achilles heel” that could be targeted by vaccines and drugs.
“Among the virulence factors we have identified, we have found one in particular that we think might be a good target for a vaccine” says Professor Jose Vazquez-Boland of Edinburgh University. Pathogenic strains of the bacteria have long processes or “pili”, with which they attach to the host cells.
“We identified the genes responsible and produced antibodies against them.” These antibodies prevent the bacteria attaching to the cells and so prevent infection getting established. So this would be a good candidate for a vaccine.
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