Discussing IACUC Management Practices Based on the Written Review Documents of Animal Science Application Institutions
Chang, Chia-Chen
Abstract
The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) serves as the core mechanism to ensure that animal science research complies with ethical standards and regulations. The biennial or triennial IACUC Site Visit conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) provides an objective evaluation of IACUC’s management effectiveness.
This presentation focuses on the “Checklist of Written Review Documents for Animal Science Application Institutions,” analyzing the IACUC management requirements behind each item and linking them to strategies for responding to MOA IACUC Site Visit. Through policy documents, execution evidence, and practical sharing on animal welfare, it enables IACUC to successfully meet MOA IACUC Site Visit requirements with thorough preparation.
Work Report – Production and Improvement of Inactivated Riemerella anatipestifer Vaccine for Waterfowl
Chih-Shuan Shen
Abstract
Riemerella anatipestifer (RA) infection, also known as infectious serositis, is a highly contagious bacterial disease that primarily affects young waterfowl. It often causes septicemia and significant growth retardation, leading to severe economic losses in waterfowl farms. Since it was first identified in 1904, at least 21 RA serotypes have been characterized worldwide. There is little to no cross-immunity among these serotypes, and existing vaccines provide protection only against strains of the same serotype.
Currently, treatment for this disease relies mainly on antibiotics; however, long-term use can lead to antibiotic resistance. Therefore, vaccination remains a more effective and sustainable approach for preventing RA infection.
According to our institute’s serotyping survey of domestic waterfowl from 2014 to 2023, serotype 11 is currently the most prevalent strain in Taiwan. However, the trivalent vaccine currently produced at scale by our institute only covers serotypes 1, 2, and 6, and does not include serotype 11—thus limiting its protective efficacy.
To improve vaccine performance and enhance disease control, our institute has conducted preliminary characterization and growth curve analysis of RA serotype 11 strains. We have also utilized real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) to analyze bacterial concentrations, yielding promising results. Moving forward, animal trials will be conducted to assess the protective efficacy of the updated vaccine formulations. Our goal is to develop a multivalent vaccine that includes serotype 11, thereby strengthening disease control capacity in domestic waterfowl farms, reducing industry losses, and promoting the sustainable development of the national livestock economy.