Biology subjects

Wilson, L. A.

Publications and source records attributed to Wilson, L. A..

3 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2026

Ocular findings in Northern Gannets following an outbreak of high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5N1)

BackgroundDuring 2021-2022, high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) caused mass mortality in wild birds across Europe, with Northern Gannets (Morus bassanus) among the most affected. Following the outbreak, unusual alterations in the species characteristic pale iris were observed in some individuals. MethodsOpportunistically captured gannets on Bass Rock (n=52), selected to represent a range of iris pigmentation, were examined. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, rebound tonometry and photography were performed. Iris pigmentation was classified as normal, mottled or black. Eleven birds underwent avian influenza virus (AIV) serology. Histopathology was performed on two eyes. ResultsAbnormal iris pigmentation was found in 74% of adult and immature gannets, with 61% affected bilaterally. Additional signs consistent with uveitis were present in 77% of affected birds. Iris pigmentation abnormalities were positively associated with AIV H5 seropositivity (Fishers exact test, P=0.018). Histopathology from affected eyes showed increased melanin deposition and disorganisation, including loss of a distinct anterior layer of melanocytic cells and hypertrophy of melanocytes within the iris stroma. LimitationsField conditions limited uniform lighting and concurrent serology. ConclusionsIris pigmentation changes were associated with prior HPAI exposure and frequently accompanied by signs of uveitis, suggesting iris alterations may indicate past infection and potential chronic sequelae.

physiology↗

bioRxiv2024

Genomic insights into red squirrels in Scotland reveals loss of heterozygosity associated with extreme founder effects

Remnant populations of endangered species often have complex demographic histories associated with human impact. This can present challenges for conservation as the genetic status of these populations are often a-typical of natural populations, and may require bespoke management. The Eurasian red squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris (L., 1758), is endangered in the UK. Scotland represents a key stronghold, but Scottish populations have been subjected to intense anthropogenic influence, including wide-spread extirpations, reintroductions and competition from an invasive species. This study examined the genetic legacy of these events through whole genome resequencing of 106 red squirrels. Using SNP and genotype likelihood datasets, previously undetected population structure and patterns of gene-flow were uncovered. One off-shore island, three mainland Scottish populations, and a key east-coast migration corridor were observed. An abrupt historical population bottleneck related to extreme founder effects has led to a severe and prolonged depression in genome-wide heterozygosity, which is amongst the lowest reported for any species. Current designated red squirrel conservation stronghold locations do not encompass all existing diversity. These findings highlight the genetic legacies of past anthropogenic influence on long-term diversity in endangered taxa. Continuing management interventions and regular genetic monitoring are recommended to safeguard and improve future diversity.

genomics↗

bioRxiv2023

Impact of carbon monoxide on neural activation during a reaction time task

Individuals are routinely exposed to low-level carbon monoxide (CO), by factors such as ambient pollution and tobacco smoking. It is known that inhalation of high levels of CO have a detrimental impact on cognitive function. This study sought to investigate the impact of low-level CO exposure on central nervous system cognitive processing speed, using Blood Oxygen Level Dependant (BOLD) functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). The effects of low-level CO (raised up to 6ppm in exhaled air) on reaction times and fMRI activation maps were measured in healthy non-smoking participants. Participants received BOLD fMRI scans on two separate occasions (air and CO intervention days) and were scanned during the performance of a simple reaction time task. Results showed mean activation in cerebellum and motor cortex for all conditions. A significant reduction in BOLD response in the right temporal gyrus was found following CO inhalation, compared to the air control. Reaction times were significantly slower after CO exposure on the CO experimental day, but did not significantly change on the air control experimental day. This suggest that even low-level CO may impact both behavioural and BOLD fMRI outcomes.

neuroscience↗