Summary

The overarching goal of this study is two-fold. Firstly, an extensive survey of ML-resistance is proposed for the southeast QLD, Hunter Valley and North QLD regions to document ML-efficacy and prevalence of resistance. Secondly, the project aims to develop and/or evaluate a number of in vitro assays to identify differences in susceptibility of equine worm populations to ML anthelmintics. Of primary importance is the development of an assay for use in determining ML-resistance within P. equorum isolates. Two assays which have been previously described as applicable to Trichostrongylid parasites of sheep; the larval development assay and the larval migration assay, will be evaluated for their ability to detect variation in ML susceptibility between cyathostomin populations.

Program

Thoroughbred Horses

Research Organisation

The University of Queensland

Objective Summary

The objectives of the project are:
1. To provide data on ML-resistance in P. equorum and cyathostomins at several regions in eastern Australia.
2. To develop in vitro assays that can be used to effectively identify variations in susceptibility to ML drugs in P. equorum.
3. To develop in vitro assays that can be used to effectively identify variations in susceptibility to ML drugs in cyathostomin populations,
4. To investigate the practicability of use of the Reverse Line Blot Hybridization technique (able to unequivocally detect and identify 13 cyathostomin species) in resistance studies.