Antimicrobial Activity of Gallium Nitrate against Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis in Neonatal Calves

Authors

  • M. E. Fecteau Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19104
  • R. H. Whitlock Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19104
  • T. L. Fyock Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19104
  • S. C. McAdams Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19104
  • R. C. Boston Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19104
  • R. W. Sweeney Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19104

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20114047

Keywords:

Mycobacterium avium, MAP, Johne’s disease, ferric iron, Gallium, antimicrobial activity, Chemoprophylactic treatment

Abstract

Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis (MAP), the agent of Johne’s disease in cattle, is a facultative intracellular bacterium that is dependent on ferric iron for its survival and replication. Gallium (Ga), a trivalent semi-metal that shares many similarities with ferric iron and functions as an iron mimic, has been shown to have in vitro antimicrobial activity against several microorganisms, including MAP. The objectives of this study were: 1) to investigate the antimicrobial activity of Ga in calves experimentally infected with MAP; and 2) to monitor for potential adverse effects of Ga on calf health.

Cover image of the 44th Conference Proceedings: photo of the skyline of St. Louis, Missouri, site of the 2011 AABP Conference. Yellow background.

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Published

2011-09-22

Issue

2011

Section

Research Summaries 4

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