Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy (TSE) surveillance for Northern Ireland is operated by the Veterinary Sciences Division (VSD) of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute.
Section of brain tissue from a BSE case, stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin
- TSEs are neurodegenerative diseases affecting a number of animal species and humans. Animal TSEs include: bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), scrapie and chronic wasting disease, affecting cattle, sheep/goats and deer respectively.
- TSE Testing is carried out to
a) ensure that beef from animals over 48 months of age is free from BSE and
b) provide epidemiological data on farmed animal TSE diseases.
- All TSE testing in Europe is carried out in accordance with EU Regulation 999/2001 and amendments. Both Passive and Active Surveillance of cattle, sheep, goats and deer is undertaken.
- Samples are initially tested using a high throughput rapid screening test (Bio-Rad TeSeE).
- Confirmatory testing on non-negative screening test samples is carried out using in-house histopathology and Immunohistochemistry tests plus a Bio-Rad confirmatory Western Blot test.
- Testing (screening and confirmatory) is carried out to the highest standard. The laboratory participates in external proficiency schemes and is accredited to ISO 17025 standard.
- All of the services of the TSE surveillance unit are available to world-wide clients.
- The laboratories can provide training and advice on all aspects of TSE diagnosis.
For more information on rapid screening and western blot test contact:
Dr Alastair Douglas
Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
Veterinary Sciences Division
Stormont, Belfast BT4 3SD, Northern Ireland
For more information on confirmatory test (pathology) contact:
Mr T. Patterson MRCVS
Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
Veterinary Sciences Division
Stormont, Belfast BT4 3SD, Northern Ireland
