Roadmap for development of disease control strategies for bTB

What are we trying to achieve and why? What is the problem we are trying to solve?

As indicated by epidemiological studies of human TB, there must exist animals that are exposed to M bovis in herds but do resist/clear infection without signs of exposition (TST neg) . We need to understand the innate immune system of these individuals We are trying to better define immune resistance (strong link with action 18 Host Genetics)

What are the scientific and technological challenges (knowledge gaps needing to be addressed)?

To define the roles of different cells of the immune system in cattle (alveolar macrophages, neutrophils and others) in uptake and clearance of the pathogen)

What approaches could/should be taken to address the research question?

Embrace the One Health approach and work together with human TB specialists

What else needs to be done before we can solve this need?

• Comprehensive cattle identification, registration, movement, and test data.
• To establish robust pipelines with all stakeholders-including bTB surveillance programs- to ensure rigorous and longitudinal follow-up of animals in the field

Existing knowledge including successes and failures