The test could significantly improve the control of bovine TB in the UK
The UK's Institute for Animal Health (IAH) is planning to commercialize a new diagnostic test for bovine tuberculosis. The test can distinguish between vaccinated and infected cattle, and could significantly improve the control of bovine TB in the UK. 
Photo: Dan Shirley
UK veterinary authorities are considering using the BCG vaccine, which is used to immunize people, to prevent TB in cattle. However, BCG-vaccinated cattle test positive using the tuberculin skin test, which is currently used to identify infected animals. There is a need for a test that can distinguish vaccinated cattle from infected ones, says IAH.
Research by Dr Jayne Hope and her colleagues Drs Chris Howard and Paul Sopps has shown that immune system cells of cattle that had previously been infected with Mycobacterium bovis, the pathogen that causes bovine TB, had much higher levels of the protein gamma-interferon than vaccinated animals. This led to the development of a rapid diagnostic test that could allow same-day, on-farm diagnosis of bovine TB and the differentiation between vaccinated and unvaccinated cattle.
IAH now hopes to commercialize the test, and has started discussions with several animal health companies. Once a partner has been found, IAH will conduct field trials for the test.
Dr Hope said: "The ultimate benefit of accurate diagnosis of disease, in the light of vaccination, would be a reduction in the incidence of bovine TB with associated improvements in animal health and welfare, and livelihood of farmers. By reducing the incidence of TB in the UK, there would be improved economic competitiveness in the farming industry."
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