Publication Abstract

Immunohistochemical and PCR studies of wild fish for Tetracapsula bryosalmonae (PKX) the causative agent of PKD

D.J. Morris, A. Adams, J. McGeorge and S.W. Feist

The life cycle of PK'X', the causative organism of proliferative kidney disease, is poorly understood. The identity of both the alternative and the definitive hosts has yet to be elucidated making the study of the parasite difficult. To determine the definitive fish host archive material from fish inhabiting PKD enzootic waters was collected and immunostained using NIAbs raised against PK'X'. Wild fish were collected from infective waters and examined for PK'Xinfection. Development of intraluminal PK'X' was also investigated in mature rainbow trout. The results of these studies suggest that PK'X' sporulates within a mature salmonid such as Atlantic salmon or brown trout.

Reference:

D.J. Morris, A. Adams, J. McGeorge and S.W. Feist, 2000. Immunohistochemical and PCR studies of wild fish for Tetracapsula bryosalmonae (PKX) the causative agent of PKD.Journal of Fish Diseases, 23: 129-135