Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias

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Metal and metalloid concentrations in wild mammals from SW Europe: European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) and badger (Meles meles)
(Springer Nature, 2023-11-03) García Muñoz, Javier; Cacciola, Nunzio Antonio; Plazzi, Federico; Míguez Santiyán, María del Prado; Soler Rodríguez, Francisco; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Martínez Morcillo, Salomé; Pérez López, Marcos; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
In recent years, there have been increasing ecological and global concerns associated to Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs). Thus, the relevance of wild mammals as biomonitors has been globally recognised. In the present study, Cd, Pb, Hg, Zn and As concentrations were quantified in European hedgehog and badger inhabiting SW Europe, and cumulative trends in relation to age and sex were evaluated. Liver and kidney samples were collected, mineralised and PTE content was determined by ICP-MS. Zn was the most abundant element quantified in both organs (239 and 89.8 mg kg-1 for hedgehogs and 179 and 164 mg kg-1 dw for badgers). In hedgehogs, very high Hg concentration were quantified (4.35 and 15.5 mg kg-1 dw in liver and kidney), and Cd was the most abundant for badgers (4.70 and 7.61 mg kg-1 dw in liver and kidney). Positive correlations were observed for the concentrations of PTE in the organs of both species. Age-dependence increased only Cd concentration, with levels in adult kidneys being significantly higher. In this study, European hedgehog and badger were used as biomonitors for the determination of PTEs to provide current reference values in relatively non-polluted areas of SW Europe, and to enhance the use of these species for future ecotoxicological studies.
Influencia de factores endógenos (edad y sexo) en los niveles de biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en alcatraz (Morus bassanus)
(Asociación Española de Toxicología - AETOX, 2023) Villalba-Álvarez, L. M.; García-Muñoz, Javier; Martínez-Morcillo, Salomé; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Soler Rodríguez, Francisco; Míguez-Santiyán, María del Prado; Pérez-López, Marcos; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Las aves marinas pueden ser utilizadas como bioindicadoras de las alteraciones del ambiente en que residen, identificándose en ellas distintos biomarcadores, que no informen sobre los niveles cuantitativos de contaminantes sino sobre los efectos adversos subclínicos que dichos agentes pueden causar. En el presente trabajo se han analizado los niveles de Malondialdehído (MDA) y de actividad Glutatión-S-Transferasa (GST) en muestras de hígado y riñón de 30 alcatraces (Morus bassanus) procedentes de las costas de Galicia, como posibles indicadores de estrés oxidativo en las aves. Además, se ha determinado la influencia de dos factores endógenos (sexo y edad) sobre los niveles de estos biomarcadores. En hígado los valores medios de MDA obtenidos fueron de 0,508±0,502 nmol/mg proteína, mientras que en riñón fueron de 15,67±12,18 nmol/mg proteína. La actividad GST media en hígado fue de 10,93±7,067 nmol/min/mg proteína, mucho menor que la media de los valores en riñón, que fue 62,30±26,97 nmol/min/mg proteína. En cuanto a las variaciones respecto a la edad, solo se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en riñón en la actividad GST, siendo mayor la actividad de esta enzima en alcatraces adultos que en inmaduros. Por su parte, el factor sexo no influyó en los niveles de ninguno de los biomarcadores considerados. Los resultados obtenidos apuntan a que ambos biomarcadores podrían ser de utilidad en programas de biomonitorización de contaminación ambiental centrados en el alcatraz, aunque serían necesarios estudios que consideren un mayor número de animales, incorporando un abanico más amplio de biomarcadores.
Biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en jabalí (Sus scrofa) del Noroeste de la Península Ibérica
(Asociación Española de Ecología Terrestre (AEET), 2023-12-21) García-Muñoz, Javier; Portillo-Moreno, Ángel; Solomando González, Juan Carlos; Fernández-Casado, David; Martínez-Morcillo, Salomé; Míguez-Santiyán, María del Prado; Soler Rodríguez, Francisco; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Pérez-López, Marcos; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
La existencia en el medio ambiente de compuestos químicos contaminantes constituye una amenaza tanto para los seres vivos como para el conjunto del ecosistema. Por ello, la Ecotoxicología está desarrollando nuevas herramientas, como el empleo de biomarcadores, con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto de estos agentes contaminantes. Muchos estudios hablan sobre el papel de los indicadores de estrés oxidativo como posibles parámetros de gran utilidad en el ámbito de la contaminación ambiental. Sin embargo, los estudios centrados en fauna salvaje, y más concretamente en el jabalí (Sus scrofa), son escasos, a pesar de la amplia distribución geográfica de este ungulado, lo cual permitiría su empleo como bioindicador en programas de biomonitorización ambiental. En el presente trabajo se determinaron los niveles de dos biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo, malondialdehído (MDA) y glutatión reductasa (GR), en el tejido renal de jabalíes procedentes del noroeste de España. Además, se evaluó la influencia del sexo en los valores obtenidos. Los valores medios globales fueron de 1.811 ± 0.426 nmoles/mg de proteína para el MDA, y 0.079 ± 0.019 picomol/min/mg de proteína para la actividad GR. Con respecto a la influencia del factor sexo, en los niveles de MDA se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas, presentando unos niveles de estrés oxidativo superiores los machos con respecto a las hembras. Estos resultados constituyen una línea base de los niveles de biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en especies de caza mayor, con la finalidad de que sean empleados en futuros estudios de biomonitorización
Biochemical effects of heavy metals and organochlorine compounds accumulated in different tissues of yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis)
(Springer, 2023-05-04) Vizuete, Jorge; Pérez-López, Marcos; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Soler Rodríguez, Francisco; Míguez-Santiyán, María del Prado; Hernández Moreno, David; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
In the present study, livers, kidneys and adipose tissue of Yellow-legged Gull (Larus michahellis) were collected. Samples were used to determine relationships between heavy metals/metalloids in liver and kidneys (Hg, Cd, Pb, Se and As) or persistent organic pollutants in adipose tissue (7 PCBs and 11 organochlorine pesticides) with biomarkers of oxidative stress (CAT, GPx, GR, GSH, GST, MDA) analysed in both internal organs. Three possible influencing variables have been studied: age, sex and sampling area. As a result, statistically significant differences (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) were only found according to the sampling area, with differences among the three studied areas found in both organs. Significant positive correlations (P < 0.01) were found in liver (Hg vs. GST; Se vs. MDA) and in kidney (As vs. GR; As vs. GPx; PCB52 vs. CAT; PCB138 vs. CAT). The scarcity in correlations suggests that the levels of pollutants found in animals were not high enough to trigger an effect at the oxidative level.
Dissecting the effects of Cephenemyia stimulator on the olfactory turbinates and nasopharynx of roe deers (Capreolus capreolus)
(MDPI, 2024-04) Ortiz Leal, Irene; Vázquez Torres, Mateo; López Beceiro, Ana María; Sánchez Quinteiro, Pablo; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Parasitic infections are a silent enemy that can crucially affect wildlife, causing severe organic damages whose effects go beyond the most visibly external symptoms. The Cephenemyia stimulator is one example of this. In European roe deer, it leads to nasopharyngeal myiasis caused by larvae that inhabit the upper respiratory tract of the deer, resulting in considerable tissue damage over time. The aim of our research was to delve into the extent of this damage and its repercussions on roe deer health and behavior. Our findings reveal significant inflammation, tissue changes, and degradation in the nasal area, potentially impairing the roe deer’s sense of smell. This olfactory ability is pivotal for their social bonding, reproductive success, finding food, avoiding predators, and adjusting to their environment. By shedding light on this condition, we contribute to the efforts in wildlife management and the conservation of these animals, ensuring their survival. Highlighting the need to safeguard roe deer populations from such diseases underscores the role of health in their survival and adaptive strategies.
First Immunohistochemical demonstration of the expression of a type-2 vomeronasal receptor, V2R, in wild canids
(MDPI, 2024-07-02) Ortiz Leal, Irene; Vázquez Torres, Mateo; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Shin, Taekyun; Sánchez Quinteiro, Pablo; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
The mammalian vomeronasal system enables the perception of chemical signals crucial for social communication via the receptor families V1R and V2R. These receptors are linked with the G-protein subunits, Gαi2 and Gαo, respectively. Exploring the evolutionary pathways of V1Rs and V2Rs across mammalian species remains a significant challenge, particularly when comparing genomic data with emerging immunohistochemical evidence. Recent studies have revealed the expression of Gαo in the vomeronasal neuroepithelium of wild canids, including wolves and foxes, contradicting predictions based on current genomic annotations. Our study provides detailed immunohistochemical evidence, mapping the expression of V2R receptors in the vomeronasal sensory epithelium, focusing particularly on wild canids, specifically wolves and foxes. An additional objective involves contrasting these findings with those from domestic species like dogs to highlight the evolutionary impacts of domestication on sensory systems. The employment of a specific antibody raised against the mouse V2R2, a member of the C-family of vomeronasal receptors, V2Rs, has confirmed the presence of V2R2-immunoreactivity (V2R2-ir) in the fox and wolf, but it has revealed the lack of expression in the dog. This may reflect the impact of domestication on the regression of the VNS in this species, in contrast to their wild counterparts, and it underscores the effects of artificial selection on sensory functions. Thus, these findings suggest a more refined chemical detection capability in wild species.
Histological characterization of ocular and adnexal tissues in dogs (Canis familiaris) and wolves (Canis lupus)
(MDPI, 2025-06-25) Diz López, Abel; Vázquez Torres, Mateo; Martínez Gómez, Fabio; Fraga Abelleira, Silvia Alejandra; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Sánchez Quinteiro, Pablo; Ortiz Leal, Irene; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Centro de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas (CiMUS)
Background/Objectives: This study explores the ocular anatomy and glandular components of domestic dogs compared to their ancestor, the wolf, with the aim of identifying evolutionary changes due to domestication and their implications for ocular pathologies. Methods: Utilizing histological and histochemical techniques, including hematoxylin–eosin, Periodic Acid–Schiff, Alcian Blue, and lectins, this research conducts a detailed analysis of the canine and wolf ocular systems, focusing on the eyelids, tarsal glands, and conjunctival tissues. Results: There are marked histological differences between the two species, particularly in the thickness and secretion levels of the conjunctival epithelia and the structure of the tarsal glands. Dogs exhibit a thicker epithelium with greater Periodic Acid–Schiff and Alcian Blue positive secretion, suggesting enhanced ocular protection and lubrication adapted to domestic environments. Conversely, wolves display more concentrated glandular secretions and a predominance of acidic mucopolysaccharides, aligning with their adaptation to natural habitats. Conclusions: Although this study is constrained by the limited number of samples, the use of mixed dog breeds, and the focus on the Iberian wolf, it nonetheless suggests histological and evolutionary differences between domestic dogs and wolves, particularly in structures related to ocular surface protection and lubrication. These differences likely reflect adaptive responses to domestication in dogs and environmental demands in wolves. Importantly, the findings emphasize the clinical and translational potential of using dogs as comparative models for human ocular surface disorders, given their anatomical proximity to humans.
First study of heavy metals analysis in hair and oxidative status of European otters (Lutra lutra) from Southwestern Europe
(Springer, 2025) García-Muñoz, Javier; Fernández-Casado, David; Portillo-Moreno, Ángel; Míguez-Santiyán, María del Prado; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Martínez-Morcillo, Salomé; Pérez-López, Marcos; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Heavy metal(loid)s are continuously released into semi-aquatic ecosystems. This poses a potential threat to wildlife, such as the European otter (Lutra lutra) whose population has been gradually declining. Non-invasive sampling (e.g., hair samples) offers a valuable approach to assess pollutant exposure in otters without harm. In this study, we quantified As, Cd, Hg, Pb, and Zn concentrations in the hair, liver, and kidney of European otters from NW Spain, with the aim of validating the effectiveness of hair as a non-invasive biomonitoring tool by comparing it with internal organ concentrations. The correlation between metal concentrations, age, sex, and habitat, as well as a battery of oxidative stress biomarkers (catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferase and malondialdehyde production), were also assessed. Tissues from 28 otters were analyzed and metal concentrations were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Oxidative stress biomarkers, including antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation, were determined in the liver and kidney by spectrophotometric methods. Significantly higher Hg concentrations were found in otter hair compared to liver and kidney, particularly in areas with local pollution sources. The rest of the heavy metal(loid)s were recorded at lower concentrations. Positive correlations were observed between Hg and As levels in hair and the liver and kidney. Statistically significant differences in Hg, Cd and Pb concentrations were found between adults and juveniles, as well as between males and females from coastal areas. Moreover, the correlations between heavy metal(loid)s and oxidative stress biomarkers reflected the physiological responses of individuals exposed to these pollutants. The present study is the first to quantify hair metal levels and oxidative status in the European otter from SW Europe. According to our findings, hair demonstrated its suitability as a non-invasive biomonitoring tool for assessing internal Hg and As concentrations, and could be considered in future long-term wildlife biomonitoring programs.
Oxidative stress biomarkers, metal(loid)s and persistent organic pollutants in European hedgehogs: An integrated approach to environmental contamination
(Elsevier, 2025-09-01) García-Muñoz, Javier; Rodríguez Somoza, Elsa; Núñez Zafra, Irene; Fernández-Casado, David; Portillo-Moreno, Ángel; Míguez-Santiyán, María del Prado; Soler Rodríguez, Francisco; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Martínez-Morcillo, Salomé; Pérez-López, Marcos; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is considered a suitable bioindicator for monitoring metal(loid)s and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, physiological responses to these pollutants remain understudied. In this study, oxidative stress biomarkers (catalase, glutathione S-transferase and malondialdehyde production) in liver and kidney of 70 European hedgehogs from Northwest Spain were assessed. Moreover, As, Hg, Cd, and Pb concentrations in hair, spines, liver and kidney were measured, and POPs including PCBs, OCPs and PAHs, were measured in adipose tissue. Metal(loid) interactions between tissues were estimated along with the relationships between oxidative stress biomarkers and endogenous factors such as age and sex. Mercury was the most abundant metal in all tissues, exceeding critical thresholds (8.09, 14.0, 5.3 and 3.1 mg kg−1 dw in hair, spines, kidney and liver). PAHs, PCBs and OCPs were detected in 57, 28 and 15 % of the samples, respectively. All metal(loid)s in hair and spines were significantly correlated with organs, as well as oxidative stress biomarkers with Cd, Hg, Pb, and POPs. Our results describe the oxidative status of hedgehogs, and the observed correlations suggest that the levels of contaminants found in the animals may be associated with oxidative stress responses. Moreover, the correlations observed between metal(loid) levels in hair and spines with internal organs suggest that these keratinized tissues serve as reliable indicators of internal metal burden.
Thelazia callipaeda infection in Northwestern Spain: what role does the Iberian wolf play?
(Elsevier, 2025-12) Estévez Sánchez, Efrén; López Beceiro, Ana María; Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; Miró Corrales, Guadalupe; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Thelazia callipaeda is a vector-borne parasite infecting the eyes of domestic and wild animals, as well as humans, across Europe. In Spain, it is endemic in several regions, with high prevalence reported in dogs and cats, but data on wildlife remain scarce. This study investigated the prevalence of T. callipaeda in Iberian wolves (Canis lupus signatus) from northwestern Spain and explored epidemiological factors associated with infection. Between 2016 and 2025, 182 wolves from Asturias and Galicia (A Coruña, Lugo, Ourense and Pontevedra) were sampled after necropsy. Eyeworms were collected and identified using morphological and molecular methods, with all specimens corresponding to T. callipaeda genotype h1. The overall prevalence was 17 %, with higher rates of infection in Galicia (18.2 %) than Asturias (8.7 %). Infections were restricted to Ourense (37.2 %) and Lugo (26.5 %). Parasite burdens were higher in females and immature wolves (1–3 years) compared to older animals and those in good body condition (BC 4–5). The distribution of infected wolves was associated with the vegetation around Miño and Sil river basins, which may favor the development of the vector Phortica variegata. Lower prevalence in pups could be linked to smaller eye size and lower body condition, while sex- and age-related differences may reflect behavioral or immunological factors. These results indicate that Iberian wolves can act as reservoirs of T. callipaeda in northwestern Spain, underscoring the need for further research into their role in the epidemiology of this zoonotic parasite.
Associations between food group intake and serum levels of selenium and other essential and toxic trace elements in adults
(Springer, 2026-02-28) Rivas, Inés; Miranda Castañón, Marta Inés; Herrero Latorre, Carlos; Monte Secades, Rafael; López Alonso, María Marta; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Química Analítica, Nutrición e Bromatoloxía; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Instituto de Investigación do Medio Acuático para Unha Saúde Global (iARCUS); Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Patoloxía Animal
Purpose: To examine how the habitual consumption of major food groups is related to serum concentrations of essential and toxic trace elements in adults and to identify key dietary predictors of adequate status. Methods: In this cross-sectional analysis, 465 healthy adults (Galicia, Spain; 2020–2022) completed a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire; foods were categorised in 13 groups. Fasting serum concentrations of 14 trace elements were measured by ICP-MS. Group differences across element tertiles (clinical categories for selenium) were compared using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Random Forest (RF) models were constructed to evaluate multivariate dietary predictors for each element. Age- and sex-adjusted logistic regression were used to identify food group predictors of adequate (> 90 µg/L) vs. non-adequate selenium. Results: Seafood intake was positively associated with serum selenium concentrations and strongly tracked serum arsenic and mercury concentrations. Dairy, fruit and meat were also included in the RF models. Seafood ranked among the top three RF predictors for 13/14 elements; dairy ranked in all models. Logistic regression indicated higher odds of adequate selenium with greater seafood intake (OR 1.009; 95% CI 1.003–1.015; p = 0.007) and inverse associations with oil (OR 0.947; p = 0.018) and grains (OR 0.992; p = 0.036); positive trends in legume and nut consumption were identified. Individuals with adequate selenium reported consumption of ~ 4 fish servings/week. Conclusion: Integrating dietary and biomarker data revealed selenium to be the most vulnerable micronutrient. Promoting regular consumption of fish (and possibly nuts) while moderating high-oil/high-grain intake may enhance selenium without exceeding toxic metal reference limits.
Reference intervals for serum macro- and microminerals in clinically healthy horses in Northwestern Spain: Influence of age, sex, breed and diet
(Elsevier, 2026-05) Fernández Villa, Candela; Miranda Castañón, Marta Inés; Rigueira Rey, Lucas; Martínez Vicente, Lidia; Villanueva Santamarina, Blanca Lidia; Freire Lata, S.; López Alonso, María Marta; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Patoloxía Animal
Background Serum mineral concentrations are key indicators of nutritional status, metabolic function and health in horses; however, contemporary reference intervals (RI) derived from large, well-characterised populations remain scarce. Objectives To establish serum RI for macro- and microminerals in clinically healthy horses in Northwestern Spain and to evaluate the influence of sex, age, breed and diet on mineral status. Methods Blood samples were collected from clinically healthy horses (n = 211), and serum concentrations of essential macrominerals (calcium [Ca]; phosphorous [P]; magnesium [Mg]; sodium [Na], potassium [K] and sulphur [S]) and microminerals (cobalt [Co]; copper [Cu]; iron [Fe]; iodine [I]; manganese [Mn]; molybdenum [Mo]; selenium [Se] and zinc [Zn]) were determined using precise, accurate multielement techniques (Inductively Coupled Plasma: ICP-OES and ICP-MS). Results Reference intervals were established for all minerals in accordance with the clinical and laboratory standards institute (CLSI) C28-A3 guidelines. Biological factors (age, sex, breed) contributed minimally to variability in concentrations, with extensive overlap between groups, indicating partitioning was unnecessary. Diet significantly influenced the concentrations of several elements, particularly Se; pasture-fed horses had lower levels of this element, often close to the lower limit of the RI, than horses receiving commercial concentrate diets. Conclusions This study provides robust serum RI for macro- and microminerals in horses, providing valuable data for clinical assessment, nutritional monitoring and research on mineral metabolism.
Genetic Diversity of Local Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Traceability in the Production of Galician Bread (Protected Geographical Indication) by Microsatellites
(MDPI, 2024) Urquijo-Zamora, Luis; Pereira Lorenzo, Santiago; Romero Rodríguez, María de los Ángeles; Lombardero Fernández, Matilde; Ramos Cabrer, Ana María; Fernández-Otero, Cristina Isabel; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Produción Vexetal e Proxectos de Enxeñaría; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Química Analítica, Nutrición e Bromatoloxía; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Instituto de Biodiversidade Agraria e Desenvolvemento Rural (IBADER)
Galician wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) serves as the foundational component of Galician bread, a traditional Spanish product granted the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI, EU quality scheme), which is primarily conserved at the Agricultural Research Center of Mabegondo (CIAM), Xunta de Galicia, A Coruña, Spain. This study evaluated 20 ecotypes and cultivars, in comparison to 4 Galician wheats and 14 commercial wheat varieties used as references. Seventeen simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were evaluated to elucidate their genetic structure, determine their origins, and differentiate them from commercial cultivars for traceability purposes. In total, 296 wheat plants were analyzed, revealing 156 unique genotypes, 13 of which were from commercial cultivars and 143 of which were from local cultivars and ecotypes. The SSR loci revealed 221 microsatellite alleles, with an average of 11 alleles per locus. Of these, 151 alleles were found in local cultivars and ecotypes, and 134 were present in commercial cultivars, with 65 and 50 alleles exclusive to each group, respectively. A Structure software analysis demonstrated substantial genetic differentiation (Fst = 0.26) between two primary clusters, RPP1 (comprising commercial cultivars, and two ecotypes, 41 and 43) and RPP2 (consisting of local cultivars, elite lines, and ecotypes). Moreover, neighbor-joining tree analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed the high differentiation between these clusters, highlighting the singularity of Galician wheat, which is useful for the traceability of Galician bread. Furthermore, the SSRs were effective in tracking the use of Galician wheat, which displayed specific Galician alleles, in flour, sourdough, and bread samples, corroborating previous findings even when a greater number of Galician ecotypes were included.
Aquaculture as a circular bio-economy model with Galicia as a study case: How to transform waste into revalorized by-products
(Elsevier, 2021-11-27) Fraga Corral, María; Ronza, Paolo; García Oliveira, Paula; González Pereira, Antía; Losada García, Ana Paula; Prieto, Miguel Ángel; Quiroga Berdeal, María Isabel; Simal Gándara, Jesús; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Background: World-wide aquaculture represents a very important sector capable of supplying huge amounts of animal protein. However its relevance has proportionally augmented its waste generation. In Europe, the geographical constitution of Galicia has prompted the instauration of many aquaculture-based systems along its coasts. Indeed aquaculture means a very relevant industry in Galicia, together with animal farming, agriculture and biotechnology. Scope and approach: Over the last decade Europe legislation encourages the proper management of wastes (mostly reutilization and reducing strategies) and the sustainable use of natural resources. The application of circular bio-economy (reuse of wastes) represents a feasible model to protect human and animal health and the environment. To achieve a more efficient production system that complies with European regulations, aquaculture wastes and sub-products need to be re-utilised to increase their throughput. This approach will positively impact on their economical yield while reducing their generation and thus protecting health and environment. Key findings and conclusions: Different applications have been considered for re-using aquaculture wastes and sub-products. One of the most efficient approaches is the establishment of models that allow the metabolic waste reduction, as the integrated multi-trophic aquaculture. For derived aquaculture sub-products, the most efficient process is recovering important biomolecules such as proteins (collagen, gelatine), polysaccharides (chitosan), lipids (omega 3) or pigments (astaxanthin or beta-carotene). Biomolecules can further be applied for human and animal consumption, food industry, cosmetics or pharmaceuticals. Due to the importance of this productive system in Galicia it is critical its update to include aquaculture into circular bio-economy
Influence of Heat Stress on Milk Production, Milk Quality, and Somatic Cell Count in Galicia (NW Spain)
(MDPI, 2025-03-25) Besteiro, Roberto; Fouz Dopacio, Ramiro; Diéguez Casalta, Javier; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
This study analyses the effect of heat stress (HS) on milk production, composition, and somatic cell count in Holstein cows in Galicia. For this purpose, the study uses the temperature and humidity index (THI) obtained from the official network of weather stations and data from the official milk control between 2016 and 2021. For milk production, critical THI thresholds were established at THI = 72, while the somatic cell count increased when THI exceeded 78. For the fat and protein components of milk, the critical thresholds are lower, at 64 and 63, respectively. The analysis shows that for each unit increase in THI above the critical threshold, up to 0.249 kg of milk, 0.008 kg of protein, and 0.006 kg of fat can be lost per cow per day. HS has a greater impact on milk composition than on volume, particularly on protein content. In addition, it was observed that the impact of HS on milk production can last between 7 and 12 days. Similarly, consecutive cumulative days of HS significantly impact both milk production and quality, especially in higher productivity stages multiparous cows. Although Galicia has a less extreme climate than other regions, the presence of moderate HS during the warmer months causes significant economic losses in the dairy sector.
Early innate immune responses in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.) following Tenacibaculum maritimum infection
(Frontiers, 2023-09-04) Ferreira, Inês de Almeida; Peixoto, Diogo; Losada García, Ana Paula; Quiroga Berdeal, María Isabel; Vale, Ana Maria Silva do; Costas Refojos, Benjamín; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Introduction: The marine aquaculture industry has been witnessing a worldwide emergence of tenacibaculosis, a poorly understood bacterial disease caused by Tenacibaculum maritimum that affects commercially important fish. So far, knowledge on the T. maritimum virulence mechanisms is scarce and the pathogen-host interaction operating in tenacibaculosis remain to be disclosed. This study aimed at contributing to a better understanding of this disease, by evaluating the early innate immune response triggered in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) by a bath-challenge with T. maritimum. Methods: Groups of sea bass were bath-challenged with T. maritimum (challenged fish) or mock-challenged. Undisturbed fish were used as controls (time 0). Samples of blood, liver and mucosal organs (skin, gills and posterior-intestine) were collected at 0 h (control) and at 6, 24, 48 and 72 h post-challenge (n=12). Mucosal organs were used for analyzing the expression of immune-related genes by RT-qPCR, as well as blood samples for assessing haematological and innate humoral parameters and liver for oxidative stress assessment. Results: An increased expression of il-1β, il8, mmp9 and hamp1 was detected in all mucosal organs of infected fish when compared with control and mock-challenged fish, suggesting a pro-inflammatory response against T. maritimum transversal to all organs. The faster induction of these pro-inflammatory genes was observed in the gills. Regarding the systemic response, challenged fish presented neutrophilia, monocytosis, signs of anemia, and a decrease of bactericidal and lysozyme activities in plasma. Almost no variations were observed regarding hepatic oxidative stress. Discussion/Conclusions: The present study suggests that T. maritimum induces a local innate immune response upon bath infection not only in the skin of European sea bass, but also in the gills and posterior-intestine, likely triggered by the T. maritimum’s capacity to adhere, colonize and damage these organs that can function as entry ways to bacteria, leading ultimately to the seen host’s systemic response.
Characterisation of post-translational and transcriptional reprogramming of the immune response to ISAV and IPNV infections in salmon head kidney cells
(Frontiers Media, 2025-10-17) Stewart, Robert; Souto Guitián, Xoel; Gervais, Ophélie; Jin, Yehwa; Salisbury, Sarah J.; Ballantyne, Maeve; Martin, Samuel A. M.; Orosa Puente, Beatriz; Robledo Sánchez, Diego; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Zooloxía, Xenética e Antropoloxía Física
Viral diseases remain a major barrier to the sustainable production of farmed fish, primarily attributable to the absence of effective prevention and treatment options. Understanding host-pathogen interactions can guide the development of vaccines, antiviral therapies, or gene editing strategies. Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification capable of regulating protein activation, structure, and degradation. As such, it is known to regulate many aspects of immune functions in model species, but is currently understudied in fish. This study leverages ubiquitin-enriched mass spectroscopy complemented with RNA sequencing to characterise the role of ubiquitination in response to infection. A challenge experiment was conducted by infecting Atlantic salmon head kidney (SHK-1) cells with Infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV) and Infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV). At 24 and 48 hours post-infection, dramatic changes were observed in the global ubiquitination state of host proteins. Many post-translational modifying proteins increased in abundance upon ISAV infection, whilst IPNV infection resulted in a reduction in abundance of many of these proteins. Transcriptomics showed a delay in the activation of the antiviral response to ISAV infection, with major upregulation of genes associated with immune pathways only at 48h. On the contrary, IPNV infection resulted in upregulation of classic innate immune response genes at both timepoints. Clear activation of Rig-like receptor pathways is demonstrated in both infections, in addition to upregulation of both conserved and novel antiviral TRIM E3 ubiquitin ligase genes. Network analysis identified clusters of immune genes and putatively regulatory proteins showing differential ubiquitination upon viral infection. This study highlights the capacity of post-translational control of the host innate immune response to viruses in Atlantic salmon. Clear differences in ubiquitination between the two viruses indicate either virus-specific post-translational regulation or viral antagonism of the immune response. Additionally, the ubiquitination of various proteins was linked to the regulation of innate immune pathways, suggesting a direct role of ubiquitination in the regulation of antiviral responses.
Reference Intervals for Trace Elements in Canine Plasma
(MDPI, 2026-01-15) Larrán Franco, Belén; López Alonso, María Marta; Miranda Castañón, Marta Inés; Suárez Rey, María Luisa; Orjales Galdo, Inmaculada; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Patoloxía Animal; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Trace elements are essential for organisms, and their involvement in diverse diseases is increasingly recognised. Interest is increasing in veterinary medicine, particularly in relation to canine diseases. However, reference intervals for trace elements in dogs remain scarce. Plasma samples from 140 dogs were analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to determine the levels of 13 trace elements. Reference intervals (µg/L) were established for the following 12 elements: As, 0.417–8.17; Co, 0.039–1.33; Cr, 2.41–13.3; Cu, 296–790; Fe, 846–3643; Hg, 0.235–2.33; Ni, 0.567–9.04; Mn, 1.90–7.28; Mo, 1.43–12.7; Pb, 0.285–2.82; Se, 200–434; and Zn, 415–1095. However, Cd was below the limit of quantification in 77% of the samples. No differences in trace element concentrations were observed in relation to breed or reproductive status. Statistically significant differences were found in relation to sex (Cu, Mo, Zn), age (Co, Cu, Mo, Mn, Se, Zn), and size (Cu, Mo, Se, Zn); however, the magnitude of these effects varied among elements and was generally weak. Nevertheless, these factors should be considered when assessing trace element status. These reference intervals constitute an important resource for both clinical evaluation and future research.
Prediction of carbon dioxide concentration in weaned piglet buildings by wavelet neural network models
(Elsevier, 2017-11-03) Besteiro, Roberto; Arango López, Tamara; Ortega Martínez, Juan Antonio; Rodríguez Rodríguez, Manuel Ramiro; Fernández Rodríguez, María Dolores; Velo Sabín, Ramón; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Enxeñaría Agroforestal; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias
Carbon dioxide concentration is a major factor in air quality, animal welfare and air exchange rates inside livestock buildings. CO2 concentration series show a dynamic, non-linear and non-stationary behavior. This type of process can be handled by Wavelet Neural Network (WNN) models, which have been developed in recent years. The purpose of this paper is to develop WNN models capable of predicting the dynamics of CO2 in weaner buildings. Outdoor temperatures, CO2 concentration and temperature in the animal zone and animal activity were recorded in a commercial piglet farm during two complete production cycles. Two WNN models were generated from the recorded data: an autoregressive model (AM) that used the CO2 series and outdoor temperatures for the prediction, and an explanatory model (EM) that used only exogenous variables, namely outdoor temperature, temperature in the animal zone and animal activity. Because CO2 is a highly autoregressive variable, the best results are obtained with the AM. The AM yield an RMSE of 26.330 ppm and a Pearson’s r of 0.995. The EM, with an RMSE of 154.361 ppm and a Pearson’s r of 0.895, reveal the importance of indoor and outdoor temperatures and, consequently, of ventilation rate, for CO2 concentration inside the building. In addition, our results show the effects of animal activity on CO2 concentration, which are delayed by 40–50 min. Based on these results, the CO2 concentrations in the animal zone of weaner buildings can be accurately predicted by WNN models. Therefore, WNN modeling could be widely used to predict and understand the dynamics of environmental variables inside livestock buildings
El gusano de la nariz y garganta del corzo (Cephenemya stimulator)
(2013) Fidalgo Álvarez, Luis Eusebio; López Beceiro, Ana María; Pérez, Jesús María; Martínez Carrasco, Carlos; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Facultade de Veterinaria; Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Departamento de Anatomía, Produción Animal e Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias

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