Backyard poultry flocks that employ heritage breeds of chicken play a crucial role in the maintenance of poultry pathogens of economic and zoonotic importance. This study examined innate immunity to viral pathogens in heritage chicken breeds using a model of viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Following intraperitoneal injection of high molecular weight (HMW) -poly(I:C)/Lyovec into 4-wk-old chicks, we evaluated gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and splenocytes.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFViral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) interacts with Retinoic-acid-inducible-gene-1 (RIG-1)-like receptors (RLRs) to induce type 1 interferons. Melanoma-derived-antigen-5 (MDA-5), an RLR, but not RIG-1, is found in chickens. Ducks express both RIG-1 and MDA-5, a possible cause of differences in susceptibility to influenza virus infection between chickens and ducks.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe administration of corticosteroids may have possible hazards, ranging from minor adverse medication reactions to more serious considerations. We aimed to assess levels of public awareness concerning corticosteroid use, side effects, and predictors of its use. A cross-sectional study was conducted online throughout the period of May to July 2023.
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