Challenge
Models
At The Challenge Room, we focus on providing a range of challenge models for assessing the efficacy and safety of vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and immunomodulatory additives in fish. Such trials are critical to ensure that treatments enhance aquaculture health. The following are our principal challenge models:
1.
srs
SRS challenges are the most in demand, representing more than 80% of the studies conducted by TCR. We use EM90 and LF89 strains in our models, and the studies can be carried out in both freshwater (FW) and seawater (SW).
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Challenge routes:
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Intraperitoneal injection (i.p.): Direct injection of the inoculum into the abdominal cavity of the fish.
Challenge duration: 30 days.
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Cohabitation: Involves the use of “shedder” or Trojan fish that are injected with the bacteria and then introduced into the tank to cohabit with the study fish, allowing natural transmission of the disease.
Challenge duration: 60 days.
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2.
caligus
The parasite Caligus is one of the main challenges in the salmon farming industry. Our studies focus on:
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Infection method:
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Infection of fish through a bath with Caligus copepodites.
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During the bath, the water flow is stopped to facilitate parasite attachment to the fish.
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Resources and expertise:
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We work with external partners who supply the copepodites required for the studies.
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Our team has extensive experience in counting parasites in both juvenile and adult stages, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
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3.
PRV y HSMI
HSMI (Heart and Skeletal Muscle Inflammation) disease associated with PRV is another focus of our studies.
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Challenge routes:
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Cohabitation
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Intraperitoneal injection (i.p.)
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Duration and evaluations:
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Studies last 10 to 12 weeks.
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At the end, tissue damage and viral loads in the blood are evaluated to determine the efficacy of the treatments.
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4. Tenacibaculosis
Implemented in 2023, this is one of our most recent models.
Challenge method:
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Infection through a bath of the fish in a Tenacibaculum spp. bacterial solution.
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Precise execution of the bath is crucial, as it can cause acute mortality if not performed correctly.
Study duration:
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2 to 3 weeks.
5.Additional pathogens
At The Challenge Room, we are committed to innovation and adaptability:
Customized collaborations:
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Open to working with inocula provided by our clients.
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Studies on pathogens not previously mentioned and on emerging diseases.
Research and development:
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Exploration of specific compounds and solutions aimed at improving fish resistance to various diseases.
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Customization of challenge models according to the specific needs of each project.