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Since our founding in 1948, Morris Animal Foundation has funded hundreds of health research studies to protect, treat and cure the world's companion animals and wildlife.

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. Search our completed study database by species and/or disease to learn more about how our work has given animals longer, healthier lives.

D05EQ-605: Immunoglobulin Isotype Expression in Lymphoid Tissues of the Equine Fetus and Neonate

principal investigator: Kristin McLaughlin, student, Cornell University

Project Mentor: Maria Flaminio, DVM, PhD

completed

Year: 0 of 0. $0

Because foals are especially susceptible to infection and B cells play such an important role in the immune response and defense, this project evaluated the competence of B cells in the horse from gestation to adulthood. The study found that equine B cells are capable of performing basic functions at birth though there are interesting limitations in the production of certain antibody subtypes (a measure of B cell competence) in the foal up to 3 months of age. We presented this research at the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine forum on June 6-9, 2007.

Kristin says, "Before this summer, I had very little and not very positive experience working in a research laboratory. This program exposed me to a friendly and nurturing environmentâ€¦ I am now considering further pursuit of equine researchâ€¦"