During the period of state independence of the Republic of Tajikistan, the development of science and the practical application of scientific achievements to protect human and animal health and ensure the country’s food security have become important areas of state policy. In this process, the activities of scientific institutions, particularly specialized veterinary laboratories, have acquired special importance. One such scientific unit is the Laboratory for the Prevention of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Animal Leukosis of the State Institution “Institute of Biological Safety and Biotechnology Problems” of the Academy of Agricultural Sciences of Tajikistan.
The laboratory is one of the historically oldest units of the Institute. In 1971, it was established as Epizootological Laboratory No. 1 for foot-and-mouth disease of animals at the Central Asian Branch of the Research Institute for Foot-and-Mouth Disease. Over the years, the laboratory has been renamed twice. Despite structural and organizational changes, however, it has consistently continued to fulfill its main mission — protecting livestock from dangerous infectious diseases.
Today, the laboratory’s activities focus on the comprehensive study of epizootological issues related to foot-and-mouth disease and animal leukosis, disease diagnosis, identification of routes of disease spread, study of animal immunity, prevention, and development of effective disease-control measures.
One of the laboratory’s main tasks is to study the epizootic situation concerning foot-and-mouth disease and animal leukosis in the Republic of Tajikistan. Laboratory specialists continuously analyze potential routes of introduction and spread of diseases and undertake the necessary scientific and practical measures for the timely detection of possible infections.
The laboratory also conducts serological monitoring, which is important for determining the level of animal immunity against foot-and-mouth disease. Detection of the virus and its types using modern diagnostic methods, study of the biological characteristics of viral strains, and identification of post-infection antibodies in large and small ruminants are among the important areas of the laboratory’s scientific work.
Significant scientific research is also carried out in the field of animal leukosis control. In particular, serological monitoring is conducted to detect antibodies against the disease, and scientific recommendations are developed for disease prevention and the rehabilitation of livestock farms.
One of the laboratory’s notable achievements during the period of state independence has been the identification and isolation of new serotypes of the foot-and-mouth disease virus in animals. Research has shown that these serotypes differ in their antigenic properties from previously isolated viruses and are of particular importance for the conditions of different regions of Tajikistan.
This scientific result is important for improving disease diagnosis, prevention and control systems, making it possible to take into account the characteristics of viruses circulating in different regions of the country when developing anti-epizootic measures. Such research also provides a scientific basis for improving preventive tools and developing vaccines adapted to the country’s epizootic conditions.
The laboratory’s achievements are not limited to laboratory research. Two specialists have prepared and defended candidate dissertations on foot-and-mouth disease in animals. In addition, the laboratory has obtained 2 patents and has developed and published 6 instructions and 7 recommendations concerning the detection, diagnosis, prevention and control of foot-and-mouth disease in livestock.
These achievements demonstrate that the laboratory’s activities contribute simultaneously to the development of veterinary science, the training of highly qualified specialists, and the implementation of scientific research results in veterinary practice.
Today, experienced specialists and research scientists work at the laboratory, making a valuable contribution to the fulfillment of its objectives.
Shodigul Zubaidulloevna Rahimova, Head of the Laboratory for the Prevention of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Animal Leukosis, leads the unit. The laboratory team also includes S.A. Murvatulloev — Leading Researcher; Oibegim Saidqinushovna Zuurbekova — Senior Researcher; M.N. Nabiev — Senior Researcher, Candidate of Veterinary Sciences; and O.T. Rahimova — Laboratory Assistant and Sanitary Worker.
Each of these employees contributes to the scientific, diagnostic and practical activities of the laboratory. Their dedicated work, professional experience and scientific research enable the laboratory to continuously improve its activities.
Among the laboratory staff, the scientific activity of Oibegim Saidqinushovna Zuurbekova, Senior Researcher, deserves particular attention. She has conducted productive research in the field of infectious diseases of animals and is the author of more than 20 scientific articles, 3 methodological manuals and 1 regulatory and technical document.
One of her important scientific works is the development of the Program for the Rehabilitation of Breeding Farms from Leukosis of Cattle, which has practical significance for improving the epizootic condition of livestock farms.
Zuurbekova O.S.’s participation in the international exhibition “Women Inventors of the World” and her receipt of a bronze medal and diploma for scientific and inventive achievements demonstrate the valuable contribution of Tajik women not only to professional activities but also to the development of innovation and invention.
Under modern conditions, combating infectious animal diseases is not only a veterinary task but also an important component of biological and food security. Foot-and-mouth disease can cause significant damage to livestock production, while animal leukosis is also an important veterinary and economic challenge.
Therefore, the scientific research conducted by the Laboratory for the Prevention of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Animal Leukosis is of particular importance for assessing the epizootic situation, preventing the spread of diseases, improving diagnostic methods and developing effective control measures.
The laboratory’s work is a clear example of the connection between science, practice and production. The results obtained are used in the development of sector-specific instructions and recommendations, supporting veterinary specialists in the prevention and control of infectious animal diseases.
This year, the Republic of Tajikistan celebrates the 35th anniversary of its State Independence. This anniversary provides an important opportunity for every scientific institution to reflect on its achievements, its historical path and its contribution to the country’s development.
The Laboratory for the Prevention of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Animal Leukosis, which began its activities in 1971, has followed a distinguished scientific and professional path over more than five decades. The laboratory’s long-term experience, scientific research results, patents, instructions, recommendations and contribution to the training of scientific personnel demonstrate its valuable role in the development of veterinary science in Tajikistan.
Today, relying on accumulated experience and applying modern scientific methods, the laboratory’s staff continues their work. Their goal is clear: to protect animal health, prevent infectious diseases, ensure biological safety and contribute to the sustainable development of livestock farming in the country.
The 35 years of state independence have been a period of construction and development for all spheres of Tajikistan. Veterinary science has also played an important role in this process through its achievements. The Laboratory for the Prevention of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Animal Leukosis is an important link in this scientific system and continues to make a valuable contribution to strengthening biological safety and protecting the country’s livestock sector.
Science is a driving force of society, while biological security is one of the important foundations of sustainable national development. The laboratory’s achievements throughout its years of activity demonstrate that significant results can be achieved through dedication, knowledge and scientific research.
On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the State Independence of the Republic of Tajikistan, we wish the staff of the Laboratory for the Prevention of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Animal Leukosis new scientific discoveries, significant achievements, professional success and continued accomplishments.
Strong science — reliable security, healthy livestock and a sustainable future for Tajikistan!
Head of the Department of Information, Consultation and Implementation of Scientific Achievements
State Institution “IBSB”
Shahlo Idieva
