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Captive elephants are important conservation ambassadors for wild Asian and African elephants threatened with extinction in the wild. Researchers will catalog health problems in North American populations of Asian and African elephants and compare blood samples from healthy elephants to blood samples from elephants with health concerns. Collected data will help identify biomarkers of inflammation and disease for potential diagnostic value. Researchers also will develop a standardized gait scoring system to assess elephant foot and joint health. These new diagnostic tools will help elephant managers and veterinarians maintain the health of elephants in their care, facilitating early diagnosis of clinical problems and treatment effectiveness for elephant populations.

Study ID
D15ZO-403
Study Status
Complete
Start Date
08/01/2015
Grant amount awarded
$96,063
Grant recipient
Smithsonian Institution
Study country
United States
Investigator
Katie L. Edwards, PhD
Study category
General Health