completed studies
Since our founding in 1948, Morris Animal Foundation has funded more than $51 million in research to protect, treat, and cure the world’s companion animals and wildlife.
Along the way, our studies have led to major advances in veterinary care, including vaccines and other preventions, diagnostic tools and new therapies for the diseases and health conditions that threaten the lives of the animals we love. You can search our completed-study database by species and/or disease to learn more about our successes.
INSTRUCTIONS - Select a division from the left column, a disease or disorder from the middle column, and a study ID number from the right column.
D05EQ-601: “Comparison of Neurokinin-A Receptor Protein in Healthy and RAO-Affected Horses”
principal investigator: Michael Rossi, student, Louisiana State University
completed
Project Mentor: Changaram S. Venugopal, BVSc, PhD
Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) is a respiratory disorder in horses that causes coughing and discomfort. Previous studies in human medicine as well as equine medicine have suggested a link between neurokinin-A (NK-A), an excitatory airway neurotransmitter and an inflammatory mediator of airway hyperreactivity, and respiratory disorders. The goal of this project was to determine if NK-A receptors in pulmonary (lung) tissues show any alterations in RAO using protein extraction technique and Western Blot analysis. They found that there is a significant increase in the number of NK-A receptors in RAO affected animals when compared to that of normal animals.
Michael says, “Being involved in such a detailed and in depth research project has further sparked my interest in this field. I was indeed fortunate to have such a dedicated mentor who was willing to guide me in my endeavor. This experience has truly inspired me to consider such a career in research.”
