Selected Information on Projects
Development of new and improved diagnostic tests for Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) in Europe
EU FP5 FAIR CT95-0711
This project improved growth media for MmmSC and formulated selective transport media, identified differences in glycerol oxidation between European and African/Australian strains, produced a test for maltose utilization that separated MmmSC from other mycoplasmas of the Mycoides Cluster and made the serological diagnosis of CBPP specific with a simplified immunoblotting test. An immune-histological test and a gINF test were also developed. A colorimetric PCR test upgraded the conventional PCR test and a specific PCR based on the 16S rRNA genes was developed. The advances made through his project were the catalyst in the eradication of CBPP from Portugal and Northern Spain.
Mycoplasmas of Ruminants: Pathogenicity Diagnostics, Epidemiology and Molecular Genetics
Main objective was to reduce the considerable socio-economic effects in Europe due to several mycoplasmoses of ruminants. Convenor of Workgroup 1 Research. Co-ordination of the ongoing genetic research on priority mycoplasmas - members of the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster, Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma bovis. Fields of research covered: molecular taxonomy and phylogeny, genetic variation, gene structure and mapping, gene cloning and expression, molecular identification and diagnosis, PCR applications, and molecular biology.
'Pioneering' Research
Molecular pathotyping of Avian Infuenza Virus Molecular pathotyping of Newcastle Disease Virus
PCR/RFLP differentiation of MmmSC from MmmLC Colorimetric PCR for MmmSC detection
Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Classical Swine Fever Coordination Action
EU FP6 FP6 SSPE-CT-553755
This project strengthened the networks of national reference laboratories for FMD & CSF by providing coordination, web-based network resources, disease management manuals and mechanisms. The project focused on the coordination of research, global disease surveillance, risk analysis, vaccine reserves, diagnostics, laboratory preparedness, control policies including vaccination and wild boar issues. Under my management It has fostered trust and facilitated collaboration through information exchange and provided information to the wider stakeholder community.
Design, Build, Equip and Establish – Molecular Biology Laboratories
Specialist Laboratory in Surrey, UK
Developing, Strenthening & Formalising FMD Networks
OIE/FAO Foot-and-Mouth Disease Reference Laboratories Network
OIE/FAO Foot-and-Mouth Disease Reference Laboratories Network Information System (ReLaIS)
Community Reference Laboratory (CRL)
International FMD Strategic Reserves Network
