How does infection with the pig roundworm Ascaris suum affect pig health and protection through vaccination? A doctoral research project the research group HNE Eberswalde: Forschungsgruppe Ökologische Tierhaltung explores this question. It addresses animal health as an important part of the One Health approach, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.

During its development, the parasite migrates through several organs and can damage the intestine, liver and lungs. Both the infection and the repair of damaged tissue place demands on the animals. The project investigates whether these demands also affect their immune response to vaccination and the lung’s barrier function against pathogens.

The research combines laboratory experiments with studies on an organic and a conventional pig farm, where different levels of A. suum infection are expected. On each farm, half of the pigs will be vaccinated against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). The researcher will investigate how the animals respond to vaccination and whether their antibodies can neutralise the virus. Complementary laboratory experiments will help clarify the underlying mechanisms and the potential effects of the parasite on lung barrier function.

Supervised by Professor Eva-Maria Saliu, the project contributes to understanding the links between parasite infection, vaccine protection and animal health under practical farming conditions.