Central Asian Journal of Veterinary Science

Antibiotic resistance and the safety of probiotic microorganisms

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Antibiotic resistance is a global threat to health. One of the current safety concerns regarding probiotic microorganisms is their antibiotic resistance, which is often associated with mobile genetic elements. There are risks of horizontal gene transfer of antibiotic resistance genes from commercial probiotic microorganisms - used in biologics, food, and feed additives - to pathogens affecting humans and domestic animals.
Materials and Methods. In this work, the criteria for assessing the safety of probiotic microorganisms, as set by researchers and national regulatory bodies, are summarised. The safety criteria set out in the most well known QPS and GRAS systems are analysed in detail. The literature on the antibiotic resistance of probiotic microorganisms was analysed from the following
aspects: intrinsic and acquired resistance; phenotypic and genotypic profiles; species- and strain-level differences, and the role of the ecological niche.
Results. This study presents the results of an analysis of the safety and antibiotic resistance of probiotic microorganisms employed as biopreparations in public health measures, veterinary medicine, and the food industry. Safety assessment relies on a comprehensive approach, including the genetic characteristics of probiotic strains. The priority of full-genome sequencing and bioinformatic analysis is emphasised, as these enable a detailed review of the probiotic microorganism genome for the presence of genes determining the synthesis of virulence factors, antibiotic resistance, bioamines, and others.
Conclusion. The review emphasizes the importance of assessing the safety and antibiotic resistance of strains of lactic acid bacteria. Whole-genome sequencing of the strain is considered a priority.

Persistence of infectious peste des petits ruminants virus in clinical materials and environmental matrices

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a major transboundary infection causing substantial economic losses in sheep and goat farming. For epizootic surveillance and laboratory diagnostics, data on the persistence of peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) in clinical material and environmental matrices are essential, yet remain limited. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the persistence of infectious PPRV in clinical material and selected environmental objects and to determine the effect of key physicochemical factors on the loss of infectivity.
Materials and Methods. Infectious virus was recovered from organs/tissues of deceased animals, excretions/secretions from diseased animals, and residual drinking water after storage under controlled conditions. Virus infectivity was assessed after isolation in a susceptible primary lamb kidney cell culture and quantified by titration (TCID₅₀). Stability was evaluated under different temperature regimes, desiccation, extreme pH values, freezing (−10 °C and −50 °C), and lyophilization under vacuum and non-vacuum packaging.
Results. Under isolator conditions (14-16 °C, ~80% relative humidity), infectious virus was generally recoverable from carcass material and secretions mainly within the first 24-48 hours and was not recoverable after 48 hours. Freezing markedly prolonged infectivity: virus-containing material retained infectious activity for 6.5 ± 0.5 months at −10 °C and up to 24 months at −50 °C (observation period). Lyophilized material stored under vacuum at −10 °C remained infectious for at least 18 months with a substantial reduction in titre, whereas non-vacuum storage resulted in loss of infectivity within 3-5 days. In model matrices, infectivity declined rapidly at positive temperatures, during drying, and at extreme pH values; heating to 80 °C/boiling caused immediate inactivation.
Conclusion. PPRV infectivity in clinical material and environmental matrices is strongly determined by temperature, pH, and desiccation, while freezing and properly packaged lyophilization provide prolonged preservation. The results support practical recommendations for sampling, storage, and transport of material for PPR laboratory diagnostics.

Sanitary assessment of nuts in the markets of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Nuts are a vital component of the human diet; however, they are highly susceptible to contamination by mycotoxins. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive sanitary assessment of various domestic and imported nuts sold in Kazakhstan’s markets, specifically focusing on the quantification of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) to evaluate potential carcinogenic risks to consumers. Materials and Methods. Samples of walnuts, peanuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios were collected from major wholesale and retail markets in Almaty, Taraz, Shymkent, Astana, and the Turkestan and Kyzylorda regions. The assessment employed a multidisciplinary approach, including organoleptic, physicochemical, and instrumental analyses (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) to detect and quantify AFB1 contamination.
Results. Aflatoxin B1 was detected in all analyzed samples. The highest contamination levels were identified in samples from Shymkent, ranging from 0,039 to 0,045 mg/kg. These concentrations significantly exceed the maximum permissible limit (MPL) of 0,005 mg/kg established by the Customs Union and European Union food safety regulations.

Conclusion. The findings indicate that current levels of AFB1 contamination in nuts sold in Kazakhstan pose a notable public health concern. The results highlight the urgent need for systematic monitoring of mycotoxins and the implementation of more robust national food safety control protocols to ensure consumer protection.

Rhodococcal antigen: Evaluation of the antigenic unit using horse blood serum in the prolonged complement fixation test

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Rhodococcus equi pneumonia occursendemically on some farms, whereas on
other it occurs sporadically or is not detected at all. On endemic farms, the prevalence and severity of the disease may also vary seasonally. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of R. equi infection in horses from selected regions of Kazakhstan.

Materials and Methods. A serological study was conducted to assess the prevalence of Rhodococcus equi infection in horses. A total of 260 serum samples collected from four administrative regions (Astana city, Erementau district, Shieli district, and Zhanakorgan district) were examined using the prolonged complement fixation test (PCFT). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, distribution assessment, and one-way analysis of variance.

Results. The overall seroprevalence was 19.6%. The highest seroprevalence was observed in the Erementau district (41.8%) and Astana city (36.0%), whereas the lowest was recorded in the Shieli district (12.0%), with an intermediate value in the Zhanakorgan district (17.1%). No statistically significant differences in mean seroprevalence were detected between districts (p = 0.231). However, analysis at the individual farm level revealed a highly heterogeneous, clustered distribution of the pathogen. The distribution of seropositivity was markedly right-skewed, with a median of 15%, and 25% of farms were completely free of infection. At the same time, localized outbreaks with infection rates of up to 66.7% were detected. The antibody titers were predominantly at the 1:10 level (56.9%), which, together with the focal distribution pattern, suggests endemic circulation of the pathogen.

Conclusion. The findings indicate that epidemiological surveillance should be shifted from territorial to farm-level monitoring in order to ensure more targeted detection and control of infection foci.

Outbreak prediction methods and measures to control the spread of camelpox in Kazakhstan

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Camelpox is a highly contagious orthopoxviral disease of camelids causing fever, lymphadenopathy, skin lesions, abortions, and high mortality in young animals. It is endemic across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia and has been repeatedly reported in Kazakhstan, most recently in 2019-2020 in Mangystau and Atyrau oblasts. With the camel population on the rise, the risk of rapid disease spread from new foci is rising. This study aimed to summarize current evidence on camelpox in Kazakhstan and to propose practical approaches for assessing the epizootiological situation, forecasting outbreaks, and implementing veterinary control measures based on surveillance data and a risk analysis conducted in 2021-2022.

Materials and Methods. A targeted review of publications indexed in PubMed/Medline and Google Scholar, WOAH resources, national statistics, and selected media reports was performed (coverage up to November 22, 2025). Evidence was synthesized to define key risk indicators for introduction and spread, establish principles for surveillance design (including minimum sample size estimation and sampling across epizootiological units), and formulate recommendations for diagnostics and
interventions. Findings from the authors’ 2021-2022 cross sectional survey in western and southern Kazakhstan were incorporated.

Results. Historical outbreak data indicate periodic recurrence in western regions. In the 2021-2022 survey (486 camels from 63 herds across seven regions), antibodies to CMLV were detected in 10.9% of unvaccinated and 73.6% of vaccinated animals; all unvaccinated seropositive cases were confined to Atyrau oblast. Viral nucleic acid was detected in 1.1% of unvaccinated seropositive animals, and phylogenetic analysis confirmed CMLV. A three-zone framework for Kazakhstan was proposed to guide risk based surveillance and vaccination strategies.

Conclusion. Continuous risk-based surveillance integrating serology and molecular testing, coupled with targeted vaccination and strengthened movement control in high risk areas, is essential to prevent introduction, limit spread, and support potential regional eradication of camelpox in Kazakhstan.

The role of Culicoides vectors in the transmission of the bluetongue virus in Kazakhstan and adjacent regions

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The bluetongue virus (BTV) is a transmissible pathogen whose circulation in natural and economic systems is determined by the triad "susceptible hosts – competent Culicoides woodlice – seasonal and climatic conditions". The non-contact nature of transmission (mainly through Culicoides bites) means that the risk of outbreaks is determined not so much by the "density of animal–animal contacts" as by the intensity of host-vector contacts and the timing of host viremia with vector activity. Epizootologically cattle are often the key "hidden" link: infection in cattle is usually asymptomatic, but viremia can be relatively long lasting, which increases the likelihood of infection by woodlice and maintenance of transmission when co-grazing with sheep (clinically the most vulnerable). Complementary evidence of BTV circulation has been published for Kazakhstan: a 1997-1998 serological examination revealed widespread seropositivity in cattle/sheep/goats (~21-25%), which was interpreted as endemic in the absence of clinical recognition, and a 2021 review of the model risk assessment showed pronounced seasonality of potential transmission (spring-summer, peak in July) and a spatial gradient risk assessment, molecular research 2022-2024. The detection of BTV RNA in animals and in some Culicoides species in the southern regions was confirmed, while typing indicates the presence of at least separate genetic lines (BTV-9 "western topotype" was reported). Together, this justifies the transition from "serological confirmation of contact" to risk based continuous surveillance with simultaneous monitoring of hosts and vectors.

Evaluation of the potential antagonist's potential use to regulate the growth and toxin formation of the fungus Fusarium graminearum

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Fungi of the genus Fusarium are the most frequently isolated pathogens of major agricultural crops. Due to their high pathogenicity and toxigenicity, they cause significant economic losses. Fungi of the genus Fusarium have the ability to synthesize numerous toxic metabolites, including deokinivalenol. zearalenone et al. Toxins enter the human and animal food chains, causing serious human and animal diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility of using a potential antagonist to regulate the growth and toxin formation of the fungus Fusarium graminearum.
Materials and Methods. Fusarium graminearum, a producer of fusariotoxin deoxynivalenol, and Trichoderma Tr2 isolate,previously isolated from the soil of the Republic of Tatarstan were used in this study. The effect of in vitro interactions between Trichoderma Tr2 and F. graminearum on the growth rate of fungal mycelium was evaluated. And the effect of the in vitro interaction between Trichoderma Tr2 and F. graminearum on the amount of F. graminearum and deoxynivalenol production after 10 days of incubation at 25 °C on rice grain.
Results. Trichoderma Tr2 significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the growth of F. graminearum mycelium on potato agar by 74.3% compared to the control variant. Grain inoculation with Trichoderma Tr2 isolate significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the amount of F. graminearum on rice grains after 10 days of incubation, reducing the number of CFU fungi by 44% compared to control vials. A similar pattern was found in the analysis of mycotoxin. The detectable level of deoxynivalenol was also significantly reduced (p < 0.05) when grain was treated with Trichoderma Tr2 isolate, which reduced toxin accumulation by 68.7% compared to control vials, both the final concentration of deoxynivalenol and the concentration of deoxynivalenol per CFU by 44.1%.
Conclusion. The results of this study suggest that the soil fungus Trichoderma Tr2 isolate may be of biotechnological interest. In future studies, it will be possible to determine effective levels of application in the field, test on other species and strains, and develop an optimal strategy for using the future product.

First report of Hyalomma marginatum (Arachnida, Ixodidae) in Saiga tatarica from Ural antelope population: Western Kazakhstan

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Ixodid ticks (Acari, Ixodidae) are among the most important groups of arachnids globally, significantly impacting human and veterinary practice. Five genera of ticks of the Ixodidae family have been registered in Kazakhstan. Ticks of the genus Hyalomma are particularly important from epizootiological and epidemiological perspectives. Bites from infected ticks can transmit pathogens of bacterial and viral diseases.
Materials and Methods. The research was conducted in the Bokeyorda State Nature Reserve, located in the Bokeyorda, Zhanibek, Kaztalov, and Zhanakala districts of the West Kazakhstan region of Kazakhstan, under a permit from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Trapping for parasite carriage studies was conducted using the Coral method without harming animal health. To avoid stress, each captured animal was examined as quickly as possible. One or two ticks were removed safely, after which the animals were immediately released. The collected samples were placed in sterile laboratory Eppendorf tubes and stored at 2-4 °C. Tick species identification was performed under a trinocular stereoscopic microscope using identification tables.
Results. During the study, Hyalomma marginatum ticks, a major vector of the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHF), were discovered for the first time in representatives of the Ural saiga population (Saiga tatarica) in Western Kazakhstan. This species have not previously been recorded on saiga in Kazakhstan. Morphological identification allowed us to clarify the characteristic diagnostic features of the discovered specimens, distinguishing them from other species of the genus Hyalomma.
Conclusion. The detection of H. marginatum in saigas is of epizootiological significance, as this tick species actively parasitizes farm animals, creating conditions for the circulation and possible transmission of zoonotic pathogens between wild and domestic animals. Saiga migrations between Kazakhstan and Russia contribute to the expansion of the range of H. marginatum and likely increase the risk of tick-borne infections in the steppe ecosystems of the Urals.

Sampling, transportation and preservation of fecal and guts samples from the saiga population for 16S rRNA sequencing

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. The collection, transport, and preservation of fecal and intestinal samples from wild animals are critical steps in microbiome research, particularly in studies of the saiga antelope microbiome using 16S rRNA sequencing to investigate complex host microbial interactions The aim of this study was to compare four methods for the transport and preservation of saiga fecal and intestinal samples in order to evaluate their effectiveness in maintaining microbial DNA integrity for subsequent 16S rRNA sequencing.

Materials and Methods. The research was conducted in the Bokeyorda State Nature Reserve, located in the West Kazakhstan region of Kazakhstan, with permission from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The animals were captured for study without harm to their health. Biological material in the form of feces from live saigas was collected using a non-invasive method into sterile test tubes. The autopsy of dead saigas was performed in clean field conditions using sterile instruments. All samples were immediately frozen in liquid nitrogen. Additionally, they were cooled to 4 °C, stored at room temperature, and preserved with RNAlater for subsequent analysis.

Results. A total of 37 samples were collected from two dead female saigas from different sections of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as fresh fecal samples and rectal swabs obtained from two live females and one male. Upon arrival at the laboratory, all samples were stored at −80 °C until the start of laboratory studies. The study demonstrated that sample storage conditions significantly affect the preservation of the saiga faecal microbiota structure. Samples stored at −80 °C showed the greatest stability in both alpha diversity and taxonomic composition of microbial communities. These findings are particularly relevant for microbiota research and RNA sequencing in remote and inaccessible regions of the saiga habitat.

Conclusion. The results suggest that in field conditions where strict cold-chain maintenance is not possible, particularly when sampling from wild and remote saiga populations, the use of liquid nitrogen or RNAlater provides an effective and practical alternative to rapid freezing.

Species composition and distribution of animal ectoparasites in Kyrgyzstan

Atabekova N.S. , Aknazarov B.K. , Jetigenov E.A. , Suerkulov U.M. — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Background and Aim. Ectoparasites represent a significant threat to animal health and may act as vectors of infectious diseases. This study aimed to determine the species composition and geographical distribution of animal ectoparasites in Kyrgyzstan.

Materials and Methods. Ectoparasites were collected from livestock, companion animals, and birds across seven regions of Kyrgyzstan (Chuy, Talas, Issyk-Kul, Jalal-Abad, Osh, Batken, and Naryn) and the city of Bishkek during 2021-2022. Sampling included cattle, goats, sheep, horses, poultry, dogs, and cats. Collected specimens were identified using standard morphological methods.

Results. A total of 5,267 ectoparasite specimens were collected, which demonstrated substantial diversity across the study areas. The tick species Rhipicephalus turanicus was widely distributed in most regions, except for Issyk-Kul and Talas. Several species exhibited restricted geographical distribution. Specifically, Haemaphysalis sulcata and Hyalomma anatolicum were detected exclusively in the Chuy Valley, Dermacentor ushakovae in the Issyk-Kul region, Hyalomma asiaticum in Jalal-Abad region, and Dermacentor niveus and Dermacentor ushakovae in the Naryn region. Host specificity was observed among several ectoparasite species.

Conclusion. The study identified 12 tick species of the family Ixodidae, 2 species of the family Argasidae, and 2 species of blood-sucking insects of the family Hippoboscidae. The findings highlight the diversity and regional specificity of ectoparasite fauna in Kyrgyzstan and provide a basis for further epidemiological surveillance and control strategies.