Training on CDV Virus Neutralization Test in PSSP

Dr. Navapon Techakriengkai and Dr. Nidhi Rajput at the PSSP Microbiology Laboratory

Dr. Setyaningsih, Dr. Navapon Techakriengkai and Dr. Silmi Mariya at the PSSP Microbiology Laboratory

Tiger (Panthera tigris) has been classified by the IUCN as an endangered animal since it was first established in 1986. Despite significant conservation efforts, its status has remained unchanged and in the last 20 years the population has declined by 50%. The results of the latest investigation found a threat from Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) in wild tigers which increasingly threatened the survival of tigers. At present there is no CDV infection status in wild tigers outside Russia, it is necessary to measure seroprevalence in tiger habitat countries, namely Indonesia, India, Thailand and Nepal, therefore we need to analyze serum samples collected from wild tigers and other threatened felidae to assess the potential risk of CDV for the survival of tiger conservation.
The Microbiology and immunology laboratory, the Center for Primate Animal Studies of IPB, has become a place for training in CDV virus neutralization testing that is followed by experts from countries where the tiger population in the world is present. For 2 weeks, training on neutralization testing was conducted by Dr. Navapon Techakriengkai from Thailand, followed by Dr. Silmi Mariya, Dr. Nidhi Rajput and Dr Setyaningsih who then aimed at the formation of CDV pathogen testing facilities in each country which is the habitat of 88% of the world’s tigers.

The training includes:
1. Establish a virus neutralization protocol for CDV in partner laboratories.
2. Train local personnel to conduct testing.
3. Test archived serum samples collected from wildly caught tigers.
4. Report the results to government agencies responsible for wildlife conservation.
5. Publish results in international peer-reviewed journals.