A breakthrough treatment for facial eczema is moving closer to reality, thanks to groundbreaking research by Dr. Tanushree Barua Gupta, a leading young scientist at AgResearch.
Dr. Gupta, who was the sole New Zealander to receive an award in the prestigious AgriFutures growAG 2024 Catalyst Program, has gained recognition for her innovative work in the research and product development sector. This accolade has secured her a crucial opportunity to present her antifungal treatment to potential investors.
Her treatment targets the fungal spores responsible for facial eczema, a persistent issue affecting farms across New Zealand, particularly in the upper North Island. The disease has been exacerbated by climate change, causing an estimated $330 million in annual damage to the animal production sector. Recent climate changes have facilitated its spread southward, with new cases even appearing in the South Island. Australian researchers have also reported increasing instances of the disease.
Facial eczema is notoriously difficult to manage, as its prevalence is heavily influenced by climatic conditions that affect spore counts. Unfortunately, spore counting alone is not a reliable indicator of the disease’s presence, as the toxin sporidesmin is not always present in every detected spore. This inconsistency complicates efforts to accurately gauge the disease’s impact.
Dr. Gupta’s research focuses on developing a non-toxic, sustainable antifungal treatment. Current options include chemical sprays, which are highly toxic and damaging to the soil environment, and zinc dosing, which, while potentially effective, poses its own risks due to its toxic nature and challenging administration.
Dr. Gupta has identified a novel, naturally occurring antifungal solution that is both safe and environmentally friendly. Although she remains discreet about the specific source of her treatment, she assures that it is derived from a previously unstudied but naturally occurring substance that is integral to the ecosystem.
The goal is to develop this treatment into a commercial product that can be applied directly to paddocks or through irrigation, thereby reducing the need for on-animal treatments.
Her interest in this solution stemmed from a curiosity about naturally occurring compounds and her expertise in dairy hygiene and microbiology. Dr. Gupta’s microbiological research has involved advanced CRISPR-based diagnostics to identify bacteria in farm and food environments.
Transitioning from laboratory research to a commercial pitch presents a significant challenge for Dr. Gupta. Despite her apprehension, she is energized by the prospect of providing a viable solution to a longstanding issue that has troubled New Zealand’s livestock sector.
“The chance to make a real difference is what motivates me, and being this close to achieving it is incredibly exciting,” Dr. Gupta said.
As she prepares for her pitch, Dr. Gupta is honing her presentation skills to attract the right investor for her groundbreaking treatment.
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