Baker Institute for Animal Health 70 Years of Research and Discovery AANNNNUUAALL R REEPPORRT 202200 70 Years of Research & Discovery 2020 annual report Dear Friends, The Baker Institute for Animal Health celebrated its 70th anniversary this year. To commemorate this milestone, in this year’s Annual Report, we will recount some of the history that has taken 01 MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR place here on the hill overlooking Cornell University. Additionally, we will share how that history is impacting and guiding our current research and discovery efforts. 02 70 YEARS OF RESEARCH When thinking about my first full year as the Institute’s Director, I never would have imagined that we would be operating under the “new norm” of a world-wide pandemic, however, in March of this 08 year that is exactly what happened. While COVID-19 initially impacted the work of our faculty, staff LAB UPDATES and students at the Baker, upon research reactivation, our labs quickly got back up to speed and all of our research programs are now fully functional. Importantly, given our historical and ongoing 10 NUMBERS AT A GLANCE focus on virology and infectious diseases, we were well-positioned to quickly help combat this disease head on. Similar to our proactive response to the parvovirus in 1980, as you will see in this 14 COVID-19 RESPONSE report, our virology experts have responded to this pandemic by initiating cutting-edge COVID-19 research projects aimed at finding new ways to combat this horrific disease. 16 BICKNESE PRIZE WINNER: Additionally, this year’s annual report will also give you many opportunities to learn more about SHAO-PEI CHOU the historical foundation that the Baker Institute is built on, and the direction we are headed. From our many great faculty that have left a lasting legacy, such as Leland “Skip” Carmichael, DVM, Ph.D. 1 ‘59, who we sadly lost this year, to those faculty and trainees that are laying the groundwork of 7 DAVERSA SCHOLARSHIP WINNER: our future. This year, while we are looking back to celebrate our first 70 years, we also have an eye MERCEDES LEWANDROWSKI towards the future and are excited about what the next 70 years will bring. Finally, I would like to note that, because we are highlighting some of the Institutes achievements 18 TRAINEE HIGHLIGHTS over the last seven decades, this report is fairly content-rich. We hope that you appreciate this material and enjoy reading about our great history. Directors: Past and Present 20 DONOR PROFILES Sincerely, 1950-1975 ............................................ Dr. James A. Baker 1976 -1991 ..................................... Dr. Douglas McGregor 22 FACULTY & STAFF HIGHLIGHTS 1991 –1993 ........................Dr. Leland “Skip” Carmichael 1994 –2009 ...................................Dr. Douglas F. Antczak 2009 -2010 ..... Dr. Judith A.Appleton, Interim Director 23 LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Dr. Scott Coonrod 2010 –2016 ........................................... Dr.Colin R. Parrish Judy Wilpon Professor of Cancer Biology 2016 –2019 ...........................................Dr. Luis M. Schang 24 PUBLICATION HIGHLIGHTS Director, Baker Institute for Animal Health 2020 –current .................................Dr. Scott A. Coonrod 26 ACTIVE GRANTS 28 CLINIC MEMORIAL PROGRAM PARTNERS 30 HONOR ROLL OF GIVING 32 2020 FINANCIALS 33 CAYUGA SOCIETY behind the scenes One of the first disease targets was canine distemper—referred to A Timeline: 70 Years of 70 Years of Animal “The Institute has evolved but it has not lost its compass,” said former as simply “the disease”— which commonly struck puppies, causing research and discovery Health Discoveries at the director Dr. Douglas Antczak, Dorothy Havemeyer McConville Professor respiratory symptoms, vomiting, neurological problems and death. Baker Institute of Equine Medicine. “There has been continual necessary change that has Two Institute scientists who later went on to distinguished careers kept the work at the Institute cutting edge, forged by the faculty and their Article written by Patricia Waldron, further edits by in the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) made 1950’spassions for different aspects of veterinary medicine and animal health.” Baker Institute for Animal Health major discoveries about this disease. Dr. James Gillespie isolated the Baker’s Beginnings “Snyder Hill” strain of the distemper virus, which was used to develop Sept. 1950 - The Baker Institute was founded. The Baker Institute has evolved and grown since its founding 70 years ago a vaccine for the disease. Simultaneously, Dr. George Poppensiek (later Formerly the Veterinary Virus Research Institute (VVRI), on a hill overlooking Cornell University, when it was surrounded by mud Dr. James Andrew Baker, known as Drew to his friends, was the driving Dean of CVM from 1959 to 1974) was developing the first vaccine under the leadership of its founding director, Dr. James from its construction. The Veterinary Virus Research Institute, as it was force and founding Director of the Institute. The Cornell University Board for canine adenovirus, which caused especially severe symptoms in A. Baker. The institute made major contributions in its called at the time, was formed to address viral diseases in a menagerie of of Trustees voted to establish the Institute on September 20, 1950, and the dogs that were already infected with distemper. The researchers also first two decades to the control of diseases of livestock, species, including cats, pigs, trout, and cattle. Over the ensuing decades, Cornell Research Laboratory for Diseases of Dogs was dedicated on January especially bovine and swine diseases such as rinderpest developed the first dual vaccine for dogs, which protected against and hog cholera. although research on livestock declined, an equine program was established, 5, 1951 as a division of the Institute. Baker had joined the faculty at Cornell both viruses. They reportedly tested the efficacy of the dual vaccine and the Institute’s breakthroughs in the prevention and control of canine in 1947, moving from the Rockefeller Institute, a prominent medical research in Olin’s hunting dogs before laying out guidelines for the nationwide Location was selected so that the Virus Institute was close infectious diseases established the Institute as a global center for animal center in New York City. During the Second World War he had worked on vaccination program that occurred in 1960. to the University, yet far enough in the country for the health research, including groundbreaking work in immunology, genetics, livestock viruses, including rinderpest, a now extinct relative of measles rearing of animals and un-contamination of feed supplies. and cancer. that was incredibly deadly for cattle. At the new Veterinary Virus Research Research on distemper continued at the Institute all the way up to the The Cornell Research Laboratory for Diseases of Dogs Institute, he developed vaccines to protect pigs against hog cholera—now 1990s, as canine distemper is still a threat to unvaccinated dogs, and was dedicated on January 5, 1951 and paved the way Over the 70 years the faculty grew in size, and the Institute underwent known as swine fever—and various diseases of cattle. is often severe in wild animals. For two decades, Dr. Max Appel’s lab for significant research into virus diseases and vaccine multiple expansions and renovations to accommodate new avenues produced distemper vaccines for zoos. In the 1990s, he identified a development for dogs. of research. The Institute was the perfect place for disease research—close enough to strain of distemper that was killing lions on the Serengeti Plain in East 1952 - Vaccine for Canine Infectious Hepatitis - John be affiliated with Cornell, but sufficiently isolated on Hungerford Hill (off of Africa and helped protect endangered black-footed ferrets from lethal What has not changed is the faculty’s commitment to improving animal M. Olin, a Cornell alumnus and vice president of the Snyder Hill) for faculty to work safely with infectious organisms. Baker set infection with canine distemper virus which threatened to drive them health. Through both basic veterinary and biomedical research that underlies Winchester Repeating Arms Company and Chairman of the up laboratories and facilities for rearing disease-free animals, including a to extinction. board of the Olin Corporation was one of the Institute’s our deepest understanding of biology, and applied work that bridges the gulf herd of cattle from the Rockefeller Institute that had no exposure to known original philanthropist. An avid duck hunter with kennels between laboratory results and new therapies, Baker Institute scientists have viruses or some disease-causing bacteria, so they were perfect subjects for One of Baker’s first graduate students was Leland “Skip” Carmichael, full of hunting dogs, the most well-know of which is King continued to tackle challenging problems and emerging diseases. studying pathogens. DVM, Ph.D. ‘59 who was appointed to the John M. Olin Professorship Buck, Olin relied on Dr. Baker to vaccinate them against in 1963, just four years after completing his Ph.D. early in his 41- year infectious hepatitis virus, now called canine adenovirus. Baker was not only an excellent scientist; he also had a genius for fundraising career at the Institute, Carmichael discovered the bacterium Brucella and recruited prominent philanthropists to support the Institute. Robert canis and developed a diagnostic test for the organism which was The Cornell Research Laboratory for Diseases of Dogs Woodruff, the president of the Coca-Cola Company was a co-founder. In was the first permanent unit established for conducting widely applied by breeders in the control of the abortion that is research on dog diseases to be funded by private the early years, Baker received support and guidance from John M. Olin, caused by Brucella. Carmichael also discovered and isolated canine donations. Hundreds of dog owners, veterinarians, kennel a Cornell alumnus and vice president of the Winchester Repeating herpesvirus, which can affect puppies and also cause reproductive clubs, hunt clubs, philanthropists and companies fill the Arms Company and Chairman of the board of the Olin disease in adult dogs. donor list of the 1951 annual report. Corporation. Olin was an avid duck hunter with kennels full of hunting dogs that Baker had vaccinated against infectious Additional research from the early days focused on the bacterium 1955 – In its 5th year of operation, the Institute doubled its size of total laboratory facilities by replacing The hepatitis virus, now called canine adenovirus. Olin helped responsible for kennel cough and the development of vaccines recruit fellow hunting enthusiasts to support the Institute’s for leptospirosis, a bacterial infection of dogs and other animals General Laboratory with a Microbiology Building funded transmitted through soil and water. by Colonel and Mrs. Lee Garneet Day and Mr. John M. Olin.work in dogs. Nancy Sayles Day and Colonel Lee Garnett Day, an executive of General Foods and Mrs. Rowena Teagle, the That same year, Geraldine R. Dodge funded the In the 1960’s, Olin urged the Institute to begin an “all-out campaign” to wife of the president of Standard Oil, were important early establishment of the world’s first tissue-culture laboratory solve a scourge of hunting dogs—hip dysplasia. Biochemist Dr. George patrons. Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge, a Standard Oil heiress and for veterinary use at the Institute. This technological Lust was recruited to the faculty and spent decades researching the advance made it possible to cultivate a host-specific avid dog enthusiast, donated funds to build the first ever tissue genetic and environmental factors that contribute to this degenerative organism like infectious hepatitis without infecting dogs, culture facility for veterinary research, so the institute’s scientists condition. Richard King Mellon, the heir to the Mellon fortune, was also and to attenuate, or weaken, the live viruses over time in could study diseases in cell cultures instead of live dogs. a great supporter of this research. culture, thereby greatly improving the predictability and The Cornell Research Laboratory for Diseases of Dogs was the safety of vaccines. first permanent unit established for conducting research on dog diseases to be funded by private donations. Hundreds of dog owners, veterinarians, kennel clubs, hunt clubs, philanthropists and companies fill the donor list of the 1951 annual report. 2 3 1960’s Changes and New Challenges devastating disease. For many years, the parvovirus vaccine was also the 1980’s largest source of patent income for Cornell University. Vaccine for canine distemper Developed - Dr. James On April 14, 1975, Baker died suddenly, just months before the institute’s 1981 - Baker Institute scientists created an improved Gillespie isolated the “Snyder Hill” strain of the distemper 25th Anniversary. That year the Board of Trustees of Cornell University “Every dog in the U.S. now is vaccinated against distemper, adenovirus attenuated vaccine for parvovirus. Carmichael was the virus, which was used to develop a vaccine for the disease. honored him by renaming the Institute the James A. Baker Institute for and parvovirus. The institute faculty were involved in the development principal researcher who investigated and developed the Simultaneously, Dr. George Poppensiek (later Dean of Animal Health. of each of those vaccines,” said Colin Parrish, Ph.D. ‘84, John M. Olin first CPV-2 vaccines. CVM from 1959 to 1974) was developing the first vaccine Professor of Virology. “The reason we don’t talk about distemper or for canine adenovirus. The researchers also developed A year later, Dr. Douglas McGregor assumed leadership of the Institute. adenovirus anymore is because they’ve basically been controlled and 1982 - Dr. Judith Appleton, Alfred H. Caspary Professor McGregor was a medical doctor who had most recently been working at Emeritus of Immunology joined Dr. McGregor’s lab at the first dual vaccine for dogs, which protected against eradicated by the vaccine. Although the parvovirus is largely controlled both viruses. They reportedly tested the efficacy of the the Trudeau Institute in Saranac Lake, New York, a former tuberculosis Baker as a postdoctoral researcher to investigate how the in dogs by the excellent vaccines available, some cases of severe or even immune system responds to trichinosis and other parasites dual vaccine in John Olin’s hunting dogs before laying out sanatorium and renowned biomedical research center. He had built lethal disease in puppies still occur due to the difficulty of ensuring guidelines for the nationwide vaccination program that up a large and active lab studying the role of white blood cells called that invade the body through the intestine, and stayed on that all puppies are vaccinated and protected before they encounter the as a faculty member. She retired in 2019 after serving as a occurred in 1960. lymphocytes in developing immunity and was excited to expand his lab viruses that circulate in nature.” Vice Provost for Cornell University for six years. 1963 - Dr. Leland “Skip” Carmichael discovered the and join the immunology research already underway at the institute. bacterium Brucella canis and developed a diagnostic test Parrish completed his graduate work on parvovirus in Carmichael’s lab 1983 - Colin Parrish identifies the mutation that caused With McGregor’s leadership came a shift in how the institute funded and “we’ve been studying the virus since then,” he said. He spent time worldwide canine parvovirus pandemic: a virus that before for the organism which was widely applied by breeders in the control of the abortion that is caused by Brucella. its research. According to Appel, Baker had a “You give me results and in Australia as a post-doctoral researcher, then returned to the institute 1978 - had allowed a cat virus called feline panleukopenia I will give you the money” strategy for distributing the results of his as a faculty member in 1988 and a year later identified the mutation virus to transform into canine parvovirus, triggering 1968 - Biochemist Dr. George Lust was recruited to the fundraising. But McGregor realized that external research funding, the pandemic. faculty and spent decades researching the genetic and that – before 1978 - had allowed a cat virus called feline panleukopenia primarily in the form of large, project-sustaining awards from the environmental factors that contribute to the degenerative virus to transform into canine parvovirus, triggering the pandemic. His 1983 - Cornell Leadership Program for Veterinary National Institutes of Health (NIH), was a more sustainable approach. lab continues to drill down into the structure and evolution of parvovirus, Students is started by Dr. Douglas McGregor to cultivate condition of canine hip dysplasia. As the faculty began securing external grants, McGregor continued to which enabled it to jump from cats to dogs with devastating results. new generations of veterinary scientists. fundraise, building up the endowment. NIH funding enabled researchers 1970’s Along with serving as Baker’s director from 2010 to 2016, Parrish has 1988 - Dr. Colin Parrish returns to Baker as a faculty to tackle biomedical problems that afflicted both humans and animals, remained on the forefront of emerging viruses, and his laboratory has member and begins his over 30-year career investigating while donations allowed them to confront new threats and to conduct 1972 - Dr. Leroy Coggins, invented the “Coggins test” also studied the H3N8 and H3N2 canine influenza outbreaks that occurred viral host jumping and emerging viruses. veterinary research that was harder to support through external funding. for equine infectious anemia (EIA). Coggins completed after 2000 and 2015, respectively.This model continues to remain how the Institute operates today. his PhD at the Baker Institute in 1962. He studied viruses 1990’sThe Growth of Molecular Biology that cause diarrhea with Dr. James Andrew Baker. Later “I think we were very lucky having recruited a scientist of Doug’s (Dr. Coggins returned to Cornell University and developed his McGregor’s) caliber to lead the Institute at a critical point in its history,” Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s, the institute added faculty members 1994 - Dr. Douglas Antczak becomes director. During famous test for EIA. said Dr. Roy Pollock, chief learning officer of the 6Ds Company, and a and made improvements to the facilities and equipment. “The lab has his 15 years at the helm, oversees the building of two new 1974 - First Practical Test for Diagnosis of Canine former graduate student who worked with Carmichael. “He challenged a tradition of keeping up with technology,” said Dr. Judith Appleton, wings and renovation of lab spaces. Brucellosis is developed by scientists at Cornell. the Institute to elevate its science to the next level.” Alfred H. Caspary Professor Emeritus of Immunology. Appleton joined 1995 – 2006 – Antczak’s research focused on a study of the horse genome. Twilight, one of his research Carmichael discovered and isolated canine herpesvirus. the institute as a postdoctoral researcher in McGregor’s group in 1982 In 1978, when a mysterious disease that caused vomiting, severe diarrhea Additional research during this time focused on the to investigate how the immune system responds to trichinosis and other mares bred, born, and raised at Cornell’s McConville bacterium responsible for kennel cough and the and death spread in dogs worldwide, Carmichael, Pollack and Appel parasites that invade the body through the intestine, and stayed on as barn, was the first horse to have its genome sequenced development of vaccines for leptospirosis. were quick to respond. Appel first identified the canine parvovirus a faculty member. She retired in 2019 after serving as a Vice Provost for as part of the international Equine Whole Genome in the summer of 1978. With nowhere else to turn, veterinarians and On April 14, 1975 - Dr. James Baker passed, and Cornell University for six years. Sequencing Project. pet owners from all fifty states began calling the Baker Institute and 1997 - Researchers at CVM’s Baker Institute and the Cornell University honored him by renaming the Institute sending fecal samples for testing. “I hated getting my mail,” said Pollock. Appleton emphasizes, however, that “one of the most important products Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center publish the first the James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health. That summer the lab fielded more than 10,000 phone calls and letters of the institute is the trainees who go on to other places.” Numerous linkage map of the canine genome in the journal Genomics. 1976 - Dr. Douglas McGregor assumed leadership of the about parvovirus. trainees, from high school students to postdoctoral researchers, have Institute as the Director. come through Baker’s labs. Seven former trainees have been appointed 2000’s 1978 - A mysterious disease that caused vomiting, In the next three years, Appel, Carmichael and Pollock determined that deans of veterinary colleges and one is a university president. severe diarrhea and death spread in dogs worldwide, parvovirus was a never-before-seen virus, developed a diagnostic test Drs. Carmichael, Pollack and Appel quickly responded. and created a vaccine by growing a less virulent form of the virus in cell Many students in DVM programs have participated in the Cornell Leadership 2001 – Groundbreaking for the new west wing of the Institute, which includes the Thaw Charitable Trust Appel first identified the canine parvovirus in the summer cultures. The Institute’s isolation, disease-free dog kennels, tissue culture Program for Veterinary Students, started by McGregor in 1983 to cultivate Lecture Theater. of 1978. facility, faculty expertise and donor support, all made it the ideal place new generations of veterinary scientists. The program provides veterinary to tackle the disease. “That was a unique combination that allowed the students with mentoring and a summer research experience. Since its 2001 – Patent issued for DNA-based test for Congenital 1978-1981 – Baker Institute researchers determined that parvovirus was a never-before-seen virus, developed Institute to make far more progress on this problem than anybody else. It inception, over 690 students have participated, and about one third have Stationary Night Blindness (CSNB). a diagnostic test and created and licensed their was a very exciting, confusing and fascinating time,” said Pollock. attained Ph.D’s, and many have gone on to research careers in veterinary Drs. Gregory Acland and Gustavo Aguirre contributed to vaccine strain to companies to produce a parvovirus and other health research. The program is now directed by John S. L. mapping the dog genome and made tremendous strides The researchers licensed their vaccine strain to companies to produce vaccine that has since saved millions of dogs from this Parker, BVMS, Ph.D. ‘99. identifying and locating genes related to canine eye a parvovirus vaccine that has since saved millions of dogs from this devastating disease. diseases and blindness. 4 5 Continuation of article 2002- The new building is dedicated, making the In 1994, Antczak became the new director and during his 15 years at the better diagnostics and better treatments,” said Keith Richter, ‘79, DVM 2018 – Release of the world’s first canine embryonic Institute a world-class research center. The $12.5 million, helm, built two new wings and renovated many of the older lab spaces. ‘81, DAVCIM, a veterinary gastroenterologist and chair of the Baker atlas by Dr. Vicki Meyers-Wallen. 40,000 square-foot infrastructure houses 10 laboratory The growth of the Institute also mirrors the huge expansion of molecular Institute/Feline Health Center Advisory Council. 2018 – Dr. Douglas Antczak receives lifetime suites, tissue culture rooms, core space for high-tech biology research that has occurred during the same era. Scientists at achievement award in equine reproduction. microscopy work and a lecture theatre. the institute made rapid-fire discoveries identifying the cause of genetic Currently, labs at the Institute are investigating human breast cancer and 2019 – Dr. Louis Schang identifies a new mechanism 2006 – The Antczak’s labs’ horse, Twilight, serves diseases affecting reproduction, the skeletal system and vision. mammary cancer in animals. Brooke Marks, a graduate student working with Dr. Scott Coonrod, the Judy Wilpon Professor of Cancer Biology and that plays a role in controlling how herpes virus alternates as Genome Donor - after 10 years of work, the mare’s 2.7 billion base pair genome was fully sequenced and In his own work, Antczak has studied equine genetics and immunology. current Institute Director is investigating why a common type of tumor between dormant and active stages of infection. served as a resource for genomics investigations around In one study he has bred horses with a very narrow gene pool to called estrogen-receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer becomes resistant 2019 - Dr. Charles Danko, is named Robert N. Noyce the world. understand the role of a set of immune genes in responding to disease to drugs that should keep it in check. About 70 percent of all breast Assistant Professor in Life Science and Technology. Danko’s work focuses on building novel computational tools to 2007 – Dr. Alexander Travis successfully completes stem and also revealing how a pregnant mother is able to tolerate the cancer cases are ER+ and are routinely treated with drugs that block or cell transplantation in a dog and also harnesses the power developing fetus within its body. A member of this herd named Twilight degrade the estrogen receptors the tumors use to grow. However, up to understand the processes by which different genes are was the first horse to have its genome sequenced as part of the 40 percent of those tumors will become resistant to the drugs and evolve turned on and off, and how that contributes to animal of proteins found in the tail of a sperm for a new field of science called nanotechnology. Horse Genome Project that began in 1995. The sequence, completed in new ways to proliferate. Marks is using gene editing technology in breast evolution, development and disease. 2007 – Dr. George Lust and colleagues groundbreaking 2006 has revolutionized all aspects of equine research. Among other cancer cell cultures to turn on genes one at a time and see which ones 2019 – Van de Walle’s group confirms an equine parvovirus she discovered in 2018 with Dr. Thomas Divers discovery of the first panel of genetic markers that lead to accomplishments, Antczak’s lab has also developed a genetic test to are involved in developing resistance to the drugs. genetic testing for the diagnosis of canine hip dysplasia. prevent the breeding of horses with Lavender Foal Syndrome, a deadly is the source of Theiler’s disease, a fatal liver disease in genetic condition in Arabian horses. “Our goal is to look at other mechanisms or pathways that promote horses. This finding imparts regulatory change at the 2008 – A patent is issued for Acland and Aquirre’s Collie resistance,” said Marks. United States Department of Agriculture. Eye Anomaly/Choroidal Hypoplasia (CEA/CH) Test. The In dogs, Drs. Gregory Acland and Gustavo Aguirre contributed to mapping OptiGen test for CEA/CH provides a powerful management the dog genome and made tremendous strides identifying and locating “If we can identify these pathways, hopefully we can help these patients 2019 - Dr. Roy Cohen along with Dr. Alex Travis develops a device that helps diagnose stroke, demonstrating tool for the breeder. genes related to canine eye diseases and blindness. This work led to either with combination therapies or an alternate therapy.” This work proof of principle, that the technology eventually could 2009- Dr. Douglas Antczak inducted into the Equine genetic tests for night blindness in Briard dogs, a malformation called may also find biomarkers that can identify patients who are likely to be expanded and used in point-of-care testing devices Research Hall of Fame. retinal dysplasia in Labrador retrievers and Samoyeds, and a condition develop resistance. to diagnose other conditions in humans and animals, 2009 – Dr. Alexander Travis receives one of NIHs most called Collie eye anomaly. With colleagues, they also developed a gene Dr. Gerlinde Van de Walle is taking a broader approach to mammary including traumatic brain injury, some forms of dementia, prestigious awards, the NIH Director’s Pioneer Award. therapy technique to reverse blindness—the first gene therapy applied cancer by comparing cells from two types of mammals: those with high and even some types of cancer and heart disease. in a large animal. In 2017, the Food and Drug Administration approved a rates of the disease, like humans and dogs, and those that rarely develop 2010’s gene therapy to treat a rare form of human blindness based on Acland mammary cancer, such as cows and horses. “Thanks to the wide variety 2020’s –and Aguirre’s work in dogs. of veterinary species and wild mammals we can examine, we can find 2010 – Antczak’s lab develops a genetic test to prevent “There are children today who are no longer legally blind, having been clues as to why species differ in their likelihood of developing mammary Van de Walle’s lab in their study of stem cells showed the breeding of horses with Lavender Foal Syndrome, a mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) from horses secrete treated successfully with the same gene therapy eye treatment that cancer,” said Van de Walle. So far, she has identified differences between deadly genetic condition in Arabian horses. protein-busting enzymes that break apart bacterial matts Aguirre developed in dogs,” said Antczak. the two groups in molecules called microRNAs, which regulate which called biofilms allowing antibiotics to be more effective 2010 - Origins and evolution of A/H3N8 canine influenza genes are turned on or off inside cells. If these same differences can be against bacteria, including MRSA. and equine influenza discovered by work in the Parrish lab. Looking Forward detected in women or animals with mammary cancer, the research could lead to a useful diagnostic test for breast or mammary cancer. Dr. Alexander Travis invents new ‘Cap-Score’ test designed 2011 – Dr. John Parker takes over as Director of the In the Institute’s recent history, faculty have continued to make to provide information on a man’s fertility to help assist Leadership Program for Veterinary Students. foundational discoveries and develop new technologies that will no Van de Walle’s group also has identified defense mechanisms produced couples struggling to conceive. 2013 - First Puppy Born from a Frozen Embryo in the doubt advance their field. For example, Dr. Alexander Travis is developing by cows and horses that may attack tumor cells as they arise. “Down Dr. Douglas Antczak leads international team of scientist Western Hemisphere. Klondike was born from the frozen new reproductive technologies that resulted in the first puppies born the road, that could be a novel therapeutic,” said Van de Walle. She to findings that genetic study of Arabian horses challenges embryo of a beagle mother and lab father thanks to by in vitro fertilization in 2015. And Dr. Charles Danko, Robert N. Noyce recently received a grant from the Schwartz Research Fund for Women beliefs about the ancient breed. work by Baker Institute for Animal Health researcher Dr. Assistant Professor in Life Science and Technology, is building novel and other Underrepresented Faculty in the Life Sciences to explore Alexander Travis. The Coonrod lab makes ground on splenic computational tools to understand the processes by which different these differences in more detail by transplanting mammary tissues from hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive vascular tumor often 2015 - As a result of the continued work of the Travis genes are turned on and off, and how that contributes to animal different species into mice. called a “silent killer” in dogs through a genome-wide lab, the first puppies born by in vitro fertilization (IVF) evolution, development and disease. “Mammalian species are so similar. Learning insight into one species Chro-Seq approach to better understand the molecular were delivered on July 10, 2015 at the Baker Institute. This With the success of vaccines developed at the Baker Institute and is going to provide insight into other species as well,” said Coonrod. pathogenesis of this lethal disease so that they can advancement could help preserve endangered canine identify novel tumor-specific molecules that can be species and open new means for discovery in human and elsewhere, most dogs no longer die from viruses or bacteria, but live long “Putting those different types of researchers together is how we’ve really developed as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. canine genetic diseases. enough to suffer from diseases of aging, like cancer. Baker scientists are made progress in the past, and how we will continue to advance the 2016 – Dr. Gerlinde Van de Walle named the Harry M. taking up the challenge to address these problems. “One of the strengths health of animals in the future.” Zweig Assistant Professor in Equine Health and receives of the institute is that it does very high-quality basic science to help the Zoetis Award for Veterinary Research Excellence and define the mechanisms of disease—both infectious and non-infectious an Excellence in Teaching Award from Cornell. diseases—and understanding those mechanisms are going to lead to 6 7 LAB UPDATES: A Glimpse of the Past... A Foundation for the Future THEN: In 1970 Dr. Max Appel was appointed to Associate Douglas F. Antczak, VMD, Ph.D. THEN: In the 1990’s, Dr. Vicki Meyers-Wallen came THEN: In 1968, Dr. Leroy Coggins returned to the Cornell Professor at the Baker Institute. Appel completed his DVM degree in Dorothy Havemeyer McConville to the Baker Institute for Animal Health to focus on veterinary Baker Institute for Animal Health from a five-year project in Kenya Germany, and then was the first graduate student of Leland “Skip” Professor of Equine Medicine reproduction, namely Persistent Mullerian Duct Syndrome (PMDS). developing a new diagnostic test for African swine fever. Upon his Carmichael, DVM, Ph.D. ‘59, during which studies he became an expert THEN & now: Dr. Douglas Antczak, former Her research led her to create the Canine Embryonic Atlas as a return, he focused his studies on a viral disease of horses for which on the canine distemper virus that was causing serious disease in Director of the Baker Institute from 1994-2009, has had over four necessary tool for investigating the abnormal reproductive tract there is no vaccine or cure, Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). Coggins dogs. His success in unmasking the origins and workings of distemper decades of major research contributions in the areas of immunology, development in dogs. This tool provides researchers with a resource translated the findings he gained in developing the diagnostic test for led to improved vaccines for dogs, as well as a vaccine that saved the reproduction, infection, genetics and genomics contributing to find data on canine development and gene expression, helping to African swine fever and created a method to quickly and effectively once endangered species of black footed ferrets of the American West. enormously to the research happening at Baker throughout our history identify ways that can prevent genetic disorders in dogs. check for EIA antibodies in a horse’s blood. This test, now known His work has also helped to save lions in the Serengeti ecosystem in and to this day. One of Antczak’s most global reaching projects is as the “Coggins Test”, was formally approved by the US Dept of Africa, and also wild cats in the wildlife parks in the USA. Red pandas Alexander J. Travis, VMD, Ph.D.sequencing the horse genome for the international Horse Genome Agriculture in 1972 and is routinely used today in controlling the have also been protected from distemper thanks to Appel’s vaccines. Professor of Reproductive Biology, Director Cornell Project. Twilight, a Thoroughbred mare bred, born and raised at University Master of Public Health Program equine disease. In 1978 when a virus similar to feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) was the Cornell McConville Barn, was the sole DNA donor for the entire observed in dogs, Appel, along with Carmichael, set out and were Roy Cohen, Ph.D.horse genome, which was fully sequenced by 2006. Antczak and a now: Today, Dr. Alexander Travis, a world leader in successful in isolating what we now know as canine parvovirus (CPV). Research Assistant Professorcollaborator took the resources that were developed from the findings the research of male fertility, directs a laboratory focused on the The team, along with then-graduate student, Dr. Roy Pollack, spent of the genome sequencing to develop a diagnostic test to identify investigation of sperm, fertilization, and new technologies of assisted now: Expanding on the need for diagnostic tools, Dr. Roy the next three years determining the pathogenesis and means of the causative mutation of the lethal inherited disease of Arabian reproduction. His research led to development of a diagnostic test Cohen’s current research focuses on using nanoparticles as the transmission of the disease, devising the first diagnostic test, and horses known as Lavender Foal Syndrome. This diagnostic tool allows called the “Cap-Score,” which measures the sperm’s ability to fertilize. basis for Point-of-Care Tests (PoCT) for diagnosing time-sensitive perfecting the first attenuated live vaccine for the disease. That breeders to avoid mating pairs that would result in affected offspring. Prospective clinical data show that the results predict the probability illnesses. Originally he started looking at blood biomarkers for vaccine brought millions of dollars in royalties to Cornell University, The Horse Genome Project is a consortium of over 20 laboratories of a man to generate a pregnancy. “This new test will let doctors diseases such as stroke, concussion, and cardiac arrest. Because of and similar products are still used worldwide today. from more than a dozen countries and can help researchers study counsel their patients toward a personalized journey to parenthood, the critical needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, he modified his more than 80 known genetic conditions in horses that are genetically using the approaches most appropriate for them”, Travis said. He Colin R. Parrish, Ph.D. ‘84 approach to be able to detect and diagnose specific viral infections. similar to disorders seen in humans including musculoskeletal, hopes such targeted treatments will save couples time, emotional John M. Olin Professor of Virology Early experimental results have been very promising and he is now neuromuscular, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. This year, distress and money. “This is especially important for patients who are beginning tests on samples from actual cases. This technology now: Dr. Colin Parrish, another graduate student of Antczak’ s recent paper, “Genome Diversity and the Origin of the attempting to get pregnant later in life, when conception rates are platform can potentially be used in both human health and veterinary Carmichael, helped develop the first vaccines for canine parvovirus in Arabian Horse,” published in Scientific Reports, received media reduced.” The same underlying approach can be used in other species, medicine to diagnose viral infections as well as detect markers in bio- the early 1980s. Since that time, Parrish, the John M. Olin Professor coverage across the world. including cattle and wildlife species, potentially solving problems in fluids (e.g. blood, saliva) that indicate conditions such as specific types of Virology and former director of the Baker Institute, investigates the agriculture and with endangered species. of cancer, heart disease, or liver disease. viruses behind global pandemics and epidemics, and also studies how diseases spread between different animals as well as to humans. The long-standing work on canine viruses started in the 1950’s by Baker, Carmichael and Appel allows for extended studies, including 42 years of parvovirus research. Parrish’s team have studied both the FPV and CPV, and have found that all aspects of their biology and ecology are relevant when considering their adaptability. These findings also provide new insights into other viruses that affect humans or other hosts. Parrish, is now a world-renowned expert in his field, and works closely with collaborators throughout the globe – most recently with the support of a Senior Fulbright Fellowship. These contributions are helping to shape what researchers understand of virus transmission and emergence. 8 9 LAB UPDATES: A Glimpse of the Past... A Foundation for the Future Gerlinde Van De Walle, DVM, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology ‘There’s so much to investigate’ By Patricia Waldron | this story originally appeared in the Cornell Chronicle June 24, 2020 From an early age, Dr. Gerlinde Van de Walle wanted to be a veterinarian. disease in horses. The virus had been known to spread through equine “These bacteria are surrounded by proteins, which protect them from antibiotics Growing up with cats in suburban Ghent, Belgium, she aimed to become a biologic products, such as tetanus antitoxins; Van de Walle discovered like a shield,” says Van de Walle. Without the shield, antibiotics are more effective feline practitioner specializing in cancer. that the virus can also be transmitted orally. This work has received against bacteria, including MRSA, a drug-resistant bacteria acquired by people in Cornell support from the Harry M. Zweig Memorial fund for Equine hospitals and a growing concern in equine medicine as well. But during her veterinary studies at Ghent University, Van de Walle Research and more recently, the Cornell Center for Immunology, as well realized “instead of just treating the patient, it would also be very as a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Van de Walle’s team also aims to find out why some mammals – including cats, satisfying to do the research needed to improve the treatment options dogs and humans – have high rates of breast or mammary cancer, while others being used in veterinary medicine.” This finding will be crucial to developing vaccines, diagnostic tests or – such as horses, pigs, cows and some wild carnivores – almost never develop treatments for the disease. In 2019, peers highlighted the findings as one the disease. Using tissue from humans, rodents and a range of domestic and wild This passion to improve veterinary care led Van de Walle in 2013 to of the “Best Large Animal Internal Medicine Papers of the Year” at the animals, they’ve discovered differences in gene regulation between high- and join the Baker Institute for Animal Health, part of Cornell’s College of American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine’s annual forum. And low-risk species. They also identified defense mechanisms in mammary cells from Veterinary Medicine. Now an associate professor of microbiology and the work prompted the USDA to issue new regulations to ensure equine horses and cows that kill cancerous cells. immunology, Van de Walle’s lab studies diverse issues in animal health, biologic products are virus-free. ranging from viruses and stem cells in companion and livestock animals, Despite the tremendous potential for developing new diagnostic tests and to mammary cancer (or the lack thereof) in various mammals. “This is expected to greatly improve the safety of antitoxins, plasma therapies for breast/mammary cancer, finding federal funding has been transfusions and blood transfusions, which are frequently used in equine challenging for Van de Walle; funding agencies are not used to seeing comparative “I have a hard time focusing on just one topic,” says Van de Walle, medicine,” Van de Walle says. models for this type of research. Cornell has helped fill the funding gap, with a who earned a doctorate in veterinary virology. “I’m so motivated and 2020 Schwartz Research Fund for Women and Other Underrepresented Faculty interested in these problems. And because veterinary medicine covers In a different project in horses, Van de Walle’s lab is studying stem cells in the Life Sciences. The award will help her develop a new mouse model for more than just one species, there’s so much to investigate.” called mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) that assist in healing wounds, comparing mammary cell behavior across different mammal species, which will including those that are infected. In a recent featured paper in the journal In one of her current veterinary virology projects, Van de Walle focuses provide the additional data needed to reapply for federal funding.Stem Cells Translational Medicine, her team showed that MSCs from on the spread and progression of a new equine parvovirus she discovered horses secrete protein-busting enzymes that break apart bacterial matts “I’m always very proud of my people and what we accomplish here,” Van de in 2018 with Dr. Thomas Divers, the Rudolph J. and Katharine L. Steffen called biofilms. Walle says. “Perhaps our lab can be an example for upcoming generations Professor of Veterinary Medicine. Van de Walle’s group recently that it is possible to be successful in basic veterinary research, especially in an Gerlinde Van de Walle, associate confirmed that the virus is the source of Theiler’s disease, a fatal liver professor of microbiology and environment with strong internal funding opportunities, such as Cornell.” immunology, discusses her research with her lab team. 2020 numbers at a glance 16 - PARTICIPANTS IN THE LEADERSHIP 2P9U - BPLUIBCLAICTAITOIONNSS FFRROOM B PARTICIPANTS IN THE M BAAKKERE RIN STITUTE PROGRAM FOR VETERINARY 1G3 R- AGRNATNST AS WAWAARRDDSS I INN FISCAL 4C0U - RCURRERNETN AT CACTTIVIVEE GRANTS RES LEADERSHIP PROGRAM FOR INESATRICTHUETRES RESEARCHERS STUDENTS YFEIASRC 2A0L20 YEAR 2020 TOGTRAAL NTS TOTALVETERINARY STUDENTS 32S - TSUTUDDEENNTST TSR ATIRNEADI INN ELADBS I NTH RLOAUBGHSO UT THE INSTITUTE • 18 Graduate Students •T H5 ReOseaUrcGh AHssOocUiatTes T• H 6 EPo IsNtdoScTtorIaTl UTE Ass•o 1c8i aGrtaedsu a•t e S3tu Vdeinstisting Sch•o l5a Rressearch Associates 4- SSTTUUDDEENNTTSS EARNED DOCTORALL DEGREES • 6 Postdoctoral Associates • 3 Visiting Scholars WDEHGILREE WESO WRKHIINLGE WINO BRAKIENRG IN BAKER 9L A- LBASB ASR AER LEO LCOACTEADTE ADT ATTH ET HE 16 - FEFDEDERERAAL LYLY F UNDED INSTITUTE ILNASBTSITUTE LABS BAKEBRA IKNESRT IITNUSTTEITUTE GRFAUNNTDSED GRANTS 10 11 LAB UPDATES: A Glimpse of the Past... A Foundation for the Future THEN: Dr. George Lust was recruited in 1968 to head THEN: Dr. Douglas McGregor has had a distinguished THEN: In the 1990s, Dr. Gregory Acland, along with Scott Coonrod, Ph.D. a program that would study hip dysplasia in dogs. Hip dysplasia career as a researcher, administrator and leader of research training former Baker Institute director, Dr. Gustavo Aguirre, isolated Judy Wilpon Professor of Cancer Biology was considered a major physical defect in dogs which Dr. James A. programs. McGregor served as director of the Baker Institute from the gene that shows the carrier for progressive retinal atrophy in dogs THEN & now: Dr. Scott Coonrod, Judy Wilpon Baker believed needed a biochemical approach to produce a basis 1976-1991 and as the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) later developing a genetic test that provided a powerful management Professor of Cancer Biology, Director of the Baker Institute. In recent for control of the defect. Lust, a graduate in biochemistry at Cornell Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education from 1988-2001. tool for breeders. This genetic test, still in use today, can distinguish decades, the impact of infectious diseases on our companion animals (’64) worked to study the chemical changes in affected joints to gain McGregor recognized the need to mentor veterinary students and all three genetic states – normal, carrier and affected. With this has been greatly reduced, due, in part, to the development of vaccines a better understanding of the condition. Through his research he provide them with the hands-on experience and encouragement information, breeders can plan matings that avoid producing any at the Baker Institute. In fact, because of these successes, our pets identified the many specific genes responsible, and as a result, many to succeed as research scientists. He sought grant support to train affected dogs by always selecting one parent that is normal. Acland are now living longer, making them more susceptible to diseases of genetic markers for hip dysplasia. His research went further to identify biomedical researchers and in the early 1980s, secured the Institute’s and Aguirre’s studies went onto produce a first-ever treatment in gene aging, such as cancer. When Coonrod first came to the Institute from nucleotide sequences of DNA that could be used as the basis of a test first NIH training grant. This international training program, called therapy that restored the vision of a dog suffering from congenital Weill Cornell Medicine, his lab was primarily studying reproductive to identify the genes related to trait expression. Lust’s decades of the Leadership Program, is still thriving today. In addition, McGregor stationary night blindness, a disease found to be similar to that of biology. However, soon after his arrival, Coonrod began to shift his research (spanning from 1968-2010) addressed the genetics, diagnosis, maintained an active NIH-funded research program focused Leber congenital amaurosis in children. This groundbreaking discovery focus from reproduction to cancer because he realized that there was pathogenesis and treatment of hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis in on immunology. provided hope for the field of gene therapy aimed at curing blindness a real need to develop new tools for treating cancer in both pets and dogs. His studies also showed that the condition in dogs was very and in 2017, resulted in the first FDA approved gene therapy for an John S. L. Parker, BVMS, Ph.D. ‘99 humans. Given his background in reproductive biology, Coonrod first similar to developmental dysplasia of the human hip. This finding inherited disease. focused on studying hormone receptor positive breast cancer and his has led to dogs serving as a model for human hip dysplasia and to Associate Professor of Virology Charles Danko, Ph.D. lab identified a new role for the enzyme, PAD2, in estrogen receptor current studies to help develop predictive tools to identify the risk of now: After receiving his Ph.D. in virology from Cornell, Dr. hip dysplasia at an early age so that more efficient and cost- effective Robert N. Noyce Assistant Professor in binding and target gene activation. Additionally, his lab found that John Parker joined the Baker Institute’s Parrish lab where Life Sciences and Technology drugs targeting PAD2, blocked breast cancer growth in cell lines and management of the condition can be applied. he identified canine and feline transferrin receptors as being the animal models. This finding has the potential to lead to new potent Luis M. Schang, MV, PH.D. receptors for canine and feline parvoviruses. Having earned a NIH now: The legacy of unraveling genetic mysteries continues therapies for breast cancer in women. More recently Coonrod began Professor of Chemical Virology mentored award during his postdoctoral studies, Parker understood on with Dr. Charles Danko, the Robert N. Noyce Assistant collaborating with Dr. Charles Danko at the Institute and they have the importance of training and mentoring the next generation Professor in Life Science and Technology at the Baker Institute. now: been using Danko’s state-of-the-art sequencing and computational Dr. Luis Schang brought with him his expertise in of scientists. Parker’s unique ability to capture the attention of Danko’s research focuses on the future of DNA research through chemical virology when he accepted the position of Director at the tools to identify signaling pathways that are critical for the growth students and listen to their needs led him to take over as director studying how gene expression patterns are encoded in Metazoan Baker Institute. His lab uses chemical virology as the main approach of hemangiosarcoma, a highly aggressive cancer in both dogs of the Leadership Program in 2011. He also serves as director for the DNA sequence, and how these patterns contribute to evolution, to study virus-cell interactions with a focus on identifying and and humans.Comparative Medicine Training Program. This program supports development, and disease. He and his group have developed a characterizing previously unknown commonalities among unrelated US-born DVMs throughout the CVM that are undertaking advanced technique called ChRO-seq, which allows them to look at the subtle Coonrod, understands the importance of having a stand-alone viruses that can then be explored toward the development of broad- scientific training leading to a Ph.D. degree. Under Parker’s leadership, differences in gene expression in cells under different conditions. By research institute that is populated with dedicated researchers, spectrum antiviral drugs. As a result of the selected approach, they also these programs have become the corner-stone of training excellence understanding the detailed patterns of expression of all genes, the trainees and staff; all focused on basic veterinary and biomedical identify biologically active chemical scaffolds that become leads for the within CVM and have produced graduates who have developed careers Danko laboratory is decoding the rules that underlie our health and research. He has found that the diverse expertise of researchers at the exploration of novel antiviral molecules. He and his team have focused in academia, government, and clinical practice, world-wide. Parker well-being. This information leads to a better understanding of what Baker Institute provides an outstanding and synergistic environment on a number of important pathogens, including herpes simplex virus maintains an active NIH-funded research program with collaborations happens when disease occurs, whether it be cancer or one of the many that leads to highly productive collaborations which, in turn, give rise 1 and 2 (HSV-1; -2), hepatitis C virus (HCV), or influenza A virus (IAV), with the University of Pittsburgh and within Cornell with Dr. Iwijn other diseases that arise when gene regulation is altered, ultimately to groundbreaking discoveries in both animal and human health. and emerging viruses such as SARS CoV-2, Zika and dengue viruses. DeVlaminck in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. Parker’s leading to new designs of therapies for disease. When the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, Schang and his lab were well current research is focused on understanding how viruses usurp positioned to direct their efforts at identifying molecules active and the cellular translational machinery; In a project with DeVlaminck inactive against the SARS CoV-2 virus to provide valuable information the Parker lab is using spatial transcriptomics to understand the in the search for novel antivirals. He and his team have set a workflow pathogenesis of viral disease at the molecular level within tissues. to screen for broad spectrum antivirals active against SARS CoV-2 from medium sized screens to advanced pre-clinical studies. Using this workflow, they are following several active new chemical entities. 12 13 Our COVID-19 RESPONSE Baker Institute researchers were prepared to respond In the News Scientists at the Baker Institute focus on many aspects of animal health, oftentimes working across traditional scientific disciplines to break new ground. Newsday, LI Company plans to begin tests on COVID-19 vaccine for cats, September 25, 2020 by Ken Across the world, many are directly experiencing for the first time the impact of a major public health crisis, the pandemic of COVID-19. Schachter. Cats “are almost always being infected by humans” rather Virologists at the Baker Institute seek to understand the ways in which viruses, bacteria, and parasites enter the body and cause illness or death. than other cats, said Dr. Colin Parrish, a professor of virology at Cornell Their investigations into antiviral drugs, new vaccine targets, and the source of unexplained infections, yield insights into ways these infections University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “Most are not going to come could be prevented, controlled, or eventually eradicated. in contact with cats outside the house. They’re not going to frat parties or In mid-March, like so many others, much of the research and laboratories dedicated to carrying out scientific discoveries related to animal health bars,” states Dr. Colin Parrish. was temporarily suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a core group of virologists at the Baker Institute quickly responded. ‘Scopes Magazine, Re-routing research, 2020 Issue 1, Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, by Lauren Cahoon Roberts. “With Work to Date Webinars and Resources the BSL-3 capabilities, researchers such as Dr. Luis Schang, professor of The Schang lab with research led by Dr. Luis Schang, has been screening The Baker Institute quickly planned a series of webinars aimed at helping chemical virology at the Baker Institute for Animal Health are able to screen for potential therapeutics. The group was poised to quickly direct their efforts veterinarians who would like to learn more about basic concepts in virology for potential therapeutics.” to SARS CoV-2 using the expertise of team members Dr. Rodrigo Dos Santos, in order to help them better understand potential impacts of the coronavirus The New York Times, First Documented Coronavirus who has ample experience with emerging viruses and is trained to work in BSL3 Knowable Magazine, How Viruses Evolve, July 16, 2020 by on companion animals and humans. Reinfection Reported in Hong Kong, August 24,2020 and BSL4 biocontainment, and Consuelo Correa-Sierra, M.D./Ph.D. with ample Bob Holmes, with reprints in Smithsonian Magazine, July 17, 2020, The first webinars kicked off in April and consisted of a panel of virology by Apoorva Mandavilli. “The majority of patients likely have a cocktail experience in human virology, who is now also trained in BSL3 biocontainment. and Discover Magazine, July 22, 2020. “With the new coronavirus,” experts from the Baker Institute and The Cornell University College of of immune responses that activate on second exposure,” said Brian The group quickly began screening for compounds against COVID-19. Parrish says, “we’re sort of in that 1918 period where the virus is spreading Veterinary Medicine (CVM) including, Colin Parrish, Ph.D. ‘84, John M. Olin Wasik, research associate at the Baker Institute for Animal Health at fast in a naive population. But that will change as more people either catch They have tested the antiviral activity of 185 compounds using a non-infectious Professor of Virology, Luis Schang, MV, Ph.D., professor of chemical virology, the College of Veterinary Medicine. “This Hong Kong patient also seems Covid-19 or are vaccinated (if and when that becomes possible) and develop model system for SARS-CoV-2, and are currently following up on 14 promising John S. L. Parker, BVMS, Ph.D. ‘99, associate professor of virology, and to have been asymptomatic on second infection, perhaps due to some some level of immunity. There’s no question that once the population is compounds, and testing seven of these compounds against SARS CoV-2 (BSL-3). Diego Diel, DVM, MS, Ph.D. associate professor of virology, director of the immune response.” largely immune, the virus will die down,” Dr. Colin Parrish says. Three compounds have been tested for toxicity, pharmacokinetics in mice; they virology laboratory at the Animal Health Diagnostic Center. With over 2,000 Business Insider, Why some viruses jump from are scheduled to be tested for potency soon. participants from across the world attending. Others tapped to contribute animals to people, and some don’t, April 27, 2020 – Dr. In addition, Dr. Schang has also been working with a large group at Weill Cornell their expertise included Dr. Scott Coonrod, director of the Baker Institute for Colin Parrish discusses animal to human virus transference, why some and Columbia on the viral loads during the outbreak in NYC. This group includes Animal Health, Dr. Gerlinde Van de Walle, DVM, PH.D., associate professor viruses jump from non-human animals to people and others don’t, modes Drs. Monika Safford, Michael Satlin, Nathaniel Hupert, Lars Westblade, Jason and faculty at Baker Institute, Brian Wasik, research associate in the Parrish of transmission and prevention, and what needs to happen for a virus to go Zuker, Jorge Spulveda and Parag Goyal, among others. He is the virologist lab, and Bruce Kornreich, DVM, Ph.D., DACVIM, director of Cornell Feline from animal to pandemic. collaborator in a project evaluating how to minimize the spread of SARS CoV-2 Health Center. Discover Magazine, Coronaviruses often start in in hospital environments, in a project funded by the Atkinson Center, and is the In July the webinar series continued by taking on a One-Health approach. animals - Here’s how those diseases can jump to virology consultant for another Cornell spinoff company, HaloMine. This time joining the panel of experts was Dr. Alexander Travis, professor humans, April 2, 2020 is carrying out a study on the structure of the of reproductive biology, and director, Cornell University Master of Public The Parrish Lab Health program, and Laura Goodman, Ph.D., assistant research professor, Cornell Chronicle, Cornell experts discuss state of COVID-19 spike protein that the virus uses to gain entry to cells. The lab is also investigating the structure of antibodies that may recognize this spike Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of pandemic, March 31, 2020. protein and be protective against infection. Dr. Parrish is also working Veterinary Medicine. Cornell Chronicle, CVM COVID-19 working group with epidemiological modelers who are collaborating on computer and In addition to the webinars, the Institute quickly created resources for gears up, March 19, 2020. epidemiological studies aimed at predicting the current and future spread of the information on COVID-19 on our website. Experts at the Institute have been a Cornell Chronicle, Research Interrupted: CVM lab groups find virus outbreak in the USA and elsewhere. source of information for the media and the website continues to serve as a their way together, March 19, 2020. Video Dr. Luis Schang, professor of with research led by Dr. Alex Travis, and Dr. Roy Cohen resource for updated information on research as it progresses. chemical virology at the Baker Institute for Animal Health, is one of many The Travis Lab using their TET biosensor has been working on SARS-CoV-2 rapid diagnostic. While COVID-19 related research continues, reactivation researchers at Cornell University working on an antiviral solution to the They recently developed a biosensor for SARS-CoV-2. This biosensor can be of all Baker Institute research labs began in June. COVID-19 pandemic. integrated into hand held devices for point of care COVID-19 testing. RESPONSE FROM THE PUBLIC: “Thank you for this excellent webinar. My husband is a public health emergency physician on an Army base and “I received information I need without having to travel to a meeting.” • “I am formerly from the Johns Hopkins Med environment and your presenters were he also found the information given to be excellent as well, and it will help him to answer questions that are presented to him by base personnel.” • “Thanks so polished! Fine work!” • “I am a human physiotherapist and the information was super helpful. You vets are smart and informative.” • “Veterinarians are for hosting the virology seminar. Very informative for practitioners in the field. We’ll watch for more in the future. We’ve witnessed many viral threats in past 51 guardians of public health.” • “It helps to hear from the experts rather than reported information.” • “I can speak more intelligently about pandemic response years.” • “Exciting that so many people are registered! That is by far the most certificates we have ever issued for one event.” - NYSVMS, sponsor of CE credits • strategies” • “All of the Baker Institute webinars I’ve attended about COVID have been great and I highly recommend them to colleagues. Thanks for doing them” 14 15 Bbickinceksen Perizsee prize DDaavevrsear Sscaho Slacrshhipolarship Shao-Pei Chou Mercedes Lewandrowski Shao-Pei Chou, Ph.D. candidate in the Danko This year’s Daversa Scholarship Winner is Mercedes Lewandrowski, who started as an lab is this year’s recipient of the Bicknese undergraduate student in the Parker lab. Mercedes’ project in the Parker lab focused on the study of Family Prize. Her work has focused on: How the genetic diversity of viral populations. DNA sequence difference affect transcription Lewandrowski graduated from Cornell in spring 2020, and started her PhD at the Harvard University Program in Virology in the fall. How natural variation in our DNA sequences influence When asked, she stated, “For me the Daversa scholarship is a really wonderful opportunity for scientists-in-training to obtain their transcription remains poorly understood. Diploid organisms own funding. I applied for the Daversa scholarship as an undergraduate researcher and was lucky enough to be selected. By the time have two distinct copies of their DNA sequence that I applied for PhD programs I had already acquired my own funding, which I think was a big advantage for me going into competitive often function independently, providing a rich source of applicant pools.” information about how genetic variation affects a wealth of biochemical processes in the nucleus. We generated a Research summary: Mammalian orthoreovirus (MRV) in less than 1% of the viruses in the population. However, because reciprocal F1 hybrid cross in multiple biological replicates is an RNA virus that infects a variety of different species ranging many viruses grow so rapidly, if a tiny subset of the population from two genetically distinct breeds of mice: an inbred from livestock, to companion animals like cats and dogs, to has a protective mutation, they can quickly expand so that soon mouse strain (C57BL/6J) and wild-derived mice (CAST). The humans. The machinery that viruses use to copy their genomes the population size has been restored, but the protective mutant F1 hybrid mice contain a polymorphic site every ~160bp, is far more error-prone than the machinery that animals use. is now the primary type of virus in the population. which is about 10 times the rate of polymorphism in the This results in changes to the genome, or mutations, as the human genome. We used Chromatin Run-On sequencing virus replicates within host cells. The high frequency at which I presented my work as a poster at the American Society for (ChRO-seq) to analyze the location of RNA polymerase in these mutations are generated means that new viruses are often Virology’s (ASV) 2019 conference, and was planning to use some eight organs representing all three primary germ layers. We genetically distinct from the parental virus, and viral populations of the funds from the Daversa scholarship to cover travel to the developed AlleleHMM, an analytical tool to identify regions consisting of millions or billions of virus particles are thought 2020 conference. The ASV summer 2020 conference was moved to a virtual format because of the COVID-19 crisis, but I still got that shown an imbalance of transcription between the two to be extremely diverse, with random mutations scattered to give a talk at the virtual ASV reovirus workshop. Since there alleles using a hidden Markov model (HMM) that takes the throughout the genome. This diversity actually gives viral were no travel costs associated with the virtual ASV conference, allelic imbalance of the nearby SNPs into account to infer populations an edge in the host-pathogen interaction, since some I used the funding from the Daversa scholarship for direct the most likely allelic imbalance of each SNP. AlleleHMM mutations may confer resistance to host defenses or help the virus identified thousands of allelic biased transcription blocks to evade the adaptive immune system. research expenses. from each organ without the aid of gene annotations. My project focused on studying the genetics of “reverse genetics” I found this project to be incredibly interesting to work on. We found that allelic bias is organized into large multi- derived viruses. These viruses are engineered from DNA plasmids Since this was the first long-term project that I took on as transcript domains. Most domains are only allelic bias in a that the researcher introduces into cells to generate new virus. a researcher, navigating this project taught me a lot about specific organ despite the domain was also transcribed in Reverse genetics viruses are important tools for virologists, how research progresses over time, as well as how to deal other organs. Most are uniformly allelic biased with 7% of as this system allows for manipulation of the virus genome at with unexpected results or challenges in moving a particular the domains containing a switch of allelic bias. Less than the DNA stage, and also allows researchers at different labs to experiment forward. The majority of my data was gathered using 1% of the domains are imprinted. The imprinted domains re-isolate identical viruses. We were interested in seeing how Illumina sequencing, a type of “next-generation” sequencing are not evenly distributed across organs and brain has plasmid-derived viruses change genetically after many generations technology that has advanced rapidly within the last decade. It the most imprinted domains. For the non-organ-specific of growth, since they are used in place of the diverse populations was a great opportunity to get to work with this platform that has imprinted domains, brain also has the widest genomic that exist in naturally circulating viruses. revolutionized genomics, and practical experience in processing region imprinted compared to other organs. Finally, we We found that plasmid-derived MRV did not accumulate many and analyzing this type of data will be valuable as I advance in my use this system to study how DNA sequences specify the research career. steps in transcription. We have identified hundreds of mutations over the course of several passages in cell culture, sites showing allelic difference in initiation, pause and which is good news for the use of these viruses in research. One The Daversa Scholarship: The Daversa Family termination. We are working on a manuscript to report of the MRV strains included in the study is in development for use Scholarship Fund was created to memorialize Rayne, a seven how DNA sequences specify these steps in transcription. as an oncolytic agent, so it’s good to know that if isolated from year old German Shepherd who succumbed to a massive stroke DNA plasmids, this virus can undergo several rounds of replication in July 2007. Ms. Maria Daversa and her husband David Gulley Bicknese Prize Joanne Bicknese, ’75, DVM without drifting from its original consensus sequence. learned of the Baker Institute for Animal Health after receiving a ’78, established the Bicknese Family Prize in note explaining that Rayne’s vet had made a contribution in her 2005 in honor of her parents, Helen and Louis These findings are interesting because we know that when put under selective pressure, other RNA viruses like influenza and name to the Institute. A voracious learner, Ms. Daversa began Bicknese, and her aunt and uncle, Grace and Carl Bicknese. The award supports a woman HIV can adapt very quickly since resistant variants within the investigating and found that the Institute’s mission matched her population are strongly selected for. What we didn’t realize was own sentiments. Ms. Daversa and Mr. Gulley decided to pay tribute scientist-in-training during a key point in her how low the frequency of many of these mutations are, some exist to Rayne by creating an endowed scholarship at the Institute to career development. fund the pursuit of knowledge for scientists-in-training. 16 17 Ttrarinaeein Hiegheli ghhtisghlights Morris Animal Foundation Selects Baker Trainees NIH Career Simon Früeh, DVM & Charlotte Marx, Ph.D., DVM Grant is a Two Baker Institute trainees have received fellowships from the Morris Animal Foundation in the last year, Stepping Dr. Simon Früeh, a graduate student in the lab of Dr. Colin Parrish, and Dr. Charlotte Marx, a postdoctoral Stone to associate working with Dr. Gerlinde Van de Walle. The two-year awards are designed to help young scientists Career in launch their careers and to support research that will significantly impact animal health. Virology Joy Tomlinson, In September, Früeh received a fellowship to look into a challenging aspect of canine parvovirus. Despite the DVM ‘10, DACVIM existence of a good vaccine, cases still often occur. This is primarily a problem when vaccination happens For 4 years, Dr. Joy too early, and antibodies carried over from the mother bind to the vaccine, preventing it from stimulating an Tomlinson has investigated adequate immune response in the puppy. Additionally, there are a number of changes in the virus that may viruses that infect the liver alter how it interacts with the antibodies that dogs develop against the vaccine. “We think that there is a ‘cat in horses, as a research and mouse game’ occurring between the virus and host immune system,” said Früeh. associate in the lab of Dr. To investigate the processes involved, Früeh is examining antibodies from dogs that have recovered from Gerlinde Van de Walle. parvovirus infection or received the current vaccines, to see how the produced antibodies recognize the virus, Now, as the recipient and to clarify which types successfully stop it from infecting cells. The results will reveal whether antibodies of a five-year Clinical are driving the evolution of new viral strains that alter their surface molecules to avoid detection. They will Investigator Award from the National Institutes of Health, she will advance this work also show whether the different strains of parvovirus that are circulating are evolving to avoid the antibodies as she forges her own research career. that puppies receive from the mother, or the antibodies produced in response to the current vaccine strains. “The award is a real opportunity to gain independence and start charting my own path to being a principal investigator,” said Tomlinson. The grant is designed to Marx received her fellowship in November 2019, to advance research into equine mesenchymal stromal prepare individuals with clinical experience for a research career and will position cells (MSCs), a type of stem cell with the potential to fight bacterial infections and promote wound healing. Tomlinson to apply for faculty jobs and additional NIH funding. Coursework Previously, Marx and Van de Walle demonstrated that the compounds these cells secrete break up biofilms of is also required and Tomlinson will concurrently earn a doctoral degree from bacteria that commonly cause wound infections. Cornell University. MSCs can be isolated from several parts in the body, but cells from different sources behave slightly In her previous research, Tomlinson has worked with several equine viruses differently. Through the grant funding, Marx was able to perform single cell RNA sequencing – an advanced that infect the liver. She has shown that one virus – equine hepacivirus – almost technique that reveals which genes are being turned on in an individual cell – using MSCs from bone marrow, universally causes very mild infections in horses. However, she is following new data fat tissue and blood. “We’re trying to find out what the differences are, and if we can use this knowledge to suggesting it sometimes results in fibrosis, much like hepatitis C in humans. With find the best possible therapy for several conditions,” said Marx. this knowledge, veterinarians can now diagnose this infection in patients. Tomlinson Ultimately, both Marx and Früeh are interested in pursuing careers in academia. “I think it’s really a stepping has also demonstrated that a newly discovered equine parvovirus is the cause of stone for my future career in research,” said Marx. Früeh adds, “it feels good to contribute to the lab as well.” Theiler’s Disease, a common cause of liver failure, which frequently occurs after a horse receives blood products, such as an antitoxin or plasma. With the new grant, Tomlinson will investigate how equine parvovirus is transmitted naturally between horses – whether through inhalation, ingestion or other means, how quickly it spreads through a herd, and how the horse immune system responds. Ideally, the work will inform strategies for preventing and controlling the virus’ spread, and explain why some horses have mild disease, while others die. This lays the groundwork for vaccine development. Dr. Douglas Antczak has generously volunteered his own herd for the research, and Tomlinson is thankful for the ongoing support she has received from Van de Walle, Dr. Colin Parrish, Dr. Jon Cheetham and Dr. Tom Divers at Cornell University, and from the Baker community at large. Investigating these viruses will occupy Tomlinson for several years, but long-term, she sees herself continuing in the field of virology. “I like investigating infectious disease, particularly the pathology aspect,” said Tomlinson. “As a veterinarian, I like my research to have a clear connection to benefiting animals.” 18 19 Left: Charlotte Marx | Right: Simon Früeh Ddoononr Pororfil epsrofiles Dr. Joanne Bicknese, BS ’75, DVM ’78 Supporting the Institute from All Angles Dr. Joanne Bicknese, a longtime Advisory Council member, has taken “It’s been very satisfying for me to see where the winners of the an active role in supporting the Institute’s research and careers of its Bicknese Prize have gone and to develop a personal connection with the most promising trainees. She brings her expertise as a large animal recipients,” said Bicknese. “It’s rewarding to know you’ve had an impact veterinarian and more than three decades working for biomedical on a young person’s life.” companies to the Council, which she chaired from 2000 to 2006. Bicknese also makes small grants to support research projects at the Bicknese joined the Council in 1998 after meeting then-director Dr. Institute, and provides valuable tissue samples through her work with Douglas Antczak. He opened her eyes to the incredible breadth of a large kennel of hounds. These hounds appear to be more resistant to research occurring at the Institute – from immunology to genetics and cancer than many other breeds, so she arranges to send healthy and parasites – and how it benefits not just pets, but horses, farm animals cancerous breast and spleen tissue to support Dr. Gerlinde Van de Walle’s and people. In 2006, she received the Institute’s comparative breast cancer research, and Dr. Scott Founders’ Award. Conrood’s work on hemangiosarcoma. “We’re KKyylele’s’s L Leeggaaccyy Waallkk hoping that these contributions will help define But her service to Baker isn’t limited to the genetic basis for these cancers and to “Kyle was pretty much my human child in a dog body. When he passed, The first year of Kyle’s Legacy walk and other smaller fundraisers they the Council. In 2005, she established find mutations that could perhaps be I wanted to find a way to honor him and I decided I wanted to do a held took off with great success. the Bicknese Family Prize to honor her corrected in the future,” she said. walk,” states Tina Visalli, Kyle’s “mama” and organizer of Kyle’s Legacy, a parents, Helen and Louis Bicknese, nonprofit organization formed in Kyle’s memory. “After that first year, Dr. Coonrod surprised me by saying, ‘would you like and her aunt and uncle, Grace and Carl Now that Bicknese is “retired,” she works me to come speak at your walk?’ and I think I fell off my chair,” states Bicknese, who supported her throughout part-time as a regulatory veterinarian at Kyle was a lovable 11-year old Puggle when the family lost him to cancer. Tina. Coonrod attended the walk, which Tina has chosen to hold annually her career. The award is a competitive harness tracks in New Jersey and Pennsylvania in Kyle’s favorite place, Borderland State Park in Easton, MA. She states, bridge grant to help women researchers at the and has more time to devote to her goat farm. Tina first learned of the Baker Institute for Animal Health when her “I think it meant a lot to the supporters to actually get to meet him in institute to take an extra step – pursue additional Currently, she is applying the knowledge she veterinarian made a donation to the Baker Clinic Memorial Giving person and talk to him.” Tina feels that this has made the biggest impact. training, present at a conference, or purchase a piece of has gained through her long tenure with the Program in memory of Kyle. She reached out to the Institute to learn Coonrod was able to describe the research, provide feedback and answer equipment – that will advance their careers. Institute to improve the breeding of her more, and shortly after received an unexpected email from current Baker questions, and supporters were able to witness the real results that their Boer and Savanna goat herds. Institute Director at the time, Dr. Luis Schang. dollars were supporting. “We needed somebody to be the beneficiary of the funds we Since forming Kyle’s Legacy, Tina has continued to organize an were raising from the walk, and when I received the email annual walk with 100% of proceeds from ticket sales being from Schang, and I learned more, I was very touched. directed to the Baker Institute. In addition, a portion of This is what we were looking for, someone the proceeds raised outside of the walk at other events who’s actually doing work in canine cancer throughout the year also benefit research happening at research and will hopefully be making the Baker Institute. breakthroughs and make a difference,” said Tina. 2020 is the fourth year of Kyle’s Legacy walk, and Tina is happy to report that each year their donor Schang informed Tina of the research specific to support and participation grows. She’s also thrilled canine cancer taking place in Dr. Scott Coonrod’s to see that awareness around cancer research and lab. In a collaboration with Dr. Charles Danko, Dr. specifically the type of research happening at the Gerlinde Van de Walle, and Dr. Roy Cohen, Coonrod’s Baker Institute focused on canine cancer has grown. laboratory is working to find targeted treatments for hemangiosarcoma, a common and often untreatable We wish Tina and her supporters the best in future form of cancer in dogs. Using new sequencing endeavors through Kyle’s Legacy. technologies developed in Danko’s laboratory and mouse cancer models, Coonrod’s team is identifying the genes that make these tumors tick, then they aim to test drugs specifically intended to target the pathways that those genes control. 20 21 LAB highlights leadership program Work from the Van de Walle lab this year has found that Equine Dr. Luis Schang, collaborator as virology expert in a team 2020 Leadership Program in the “New Normal” parvovirus-hepatitis appears to be the cause of Theiler’s disease (a.k.a. received an academic venture seed grant from Cornell Atkinson The goal of the Leadership Program for Veterinary Students is to provide a summer research experience for students serum hepatitis), a highly fatal liver disease in horses. This finding Center for Sustainability addressing “Developing near-term and long- who seek to influence the veterinary profession through a science-based career. The program was originally has caught the attention of veterinarians nationwide. The research, term strategies to protect the safety of healthcare workers and started by Dr. Douglas McGregor in 1983. The program provides veterinary students from all over the world with an published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, has been mitigate infectious disease transmission.” opportunity for travel to Ithaca for mentoring and a summer research experience. John S. L. Parker, BVMS, Ph.D. ‘99 highlighted in: Lauren Choate, most recently part of the Danko Lab, was a took over the reins of the program in 2011. • the Kester News Hour, recipient of NIH F31 Fellowship. While the program was carried out a little differently in 2020, with the cohort meeting in a virtual environment, • a summary of the most important papers of the year in equine student outcomes were still very successful. medicine, Undergraduate student, Sanjna Das, in the Van de Walle • the 2019 American Association of Equine lab received research funding from the Dextra Baldwin McGonagle 16 students participated in the program in the summer of 2020 Practitioners (AAEP) Convention, Foundation for research she will be doing related to the role of miRNAs The program was truly multinational, with students from Australia, Canada, China, Nigeria, the • the 2019 American College of Veterinary Internal in determining susceptibility to carcinogen-induced cell death of Netherlands, UK, and the United states. Medicine annual forum, where it was voted as one of the “Best mammary cells. Large Animal Internal Medicine Papers of the Year” Robert Lopez-Astacio of the Parrish lab was the recipient The NIH T35 grant supporting the participation of US students was re-funded. This is our 31st year of the NIH Diversity R01 Supplement. of the Leadership Program. This work has resulted in the USDA issuing new regulations to ensure equine biologic products are free of this virus. This is expected to Mridusmita Saikia of the Danko lab was awarded a Caroline History and Numbers: greatly improve the safety of antitoxins, plasma transfusions, and blood Coffey Travel Fund Award. Over the last 30 years, the Leadership Program has trained over 690 veterinary students transfusions, which are frequently used in equine medicine. Alexandra Chivu, graduate student in the Danko lab received from throughout the world. Research led by Dr. Alex Travis and Dr. Roy Cohen uses a Center for Vertebrate Genomics 2020 Genomics Scholars’ Award and Many of those alumni are now themselves academic and industry leaders – just a few are their TET biosensor technology for ultra-rapid, highly-sensitive, and she will be known as the Center for Vertebrate Genomics (CVG) Scholar mentioned here: highly-specific detection of SARS-CoV-2. This biosensor will likely be for the full calendar year of 2020. On top of that she was given a CVG both cost-effective and easy to use as a rapid Point-of-Care-Testing tool Travel Award. • Dr. Thomas Vahlenkamp, Professor and Head, Institute of Virology, Leipzig University for detecting COVID-19. Their team will be using clinical human samples • Dr. Linda Barent, Associate Dean for Academic affairs, University of Illinois collected by the Medical Pathology lab at Weill Cornell, and Guthrie Chinatsu Mukai, research associate in the Coonrod Lab • Dr. Reinhard Straubinger, Dean, School of Veterinary Medicine Ludwig-Maximillians University Medical Center (Sayre, PA) to validate their technology. recently published a paper entitled “Chromatin run-on sequencing • Dr. Oliver Turner, Director of Pathology, Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, NJ. analysis finds that ECM remodeling plays an important role in canine Below: Leadership students meet virtually • Dr. Peter Florian, Director of Pharmacology, Sanofi Inc. Dr. Doug Antczak received the Harry M. Zweig hemangiosarcoma pathogenesis” in BMC Veterinary Research. This via Zoom in the summer of 2020. memorial Fund for Equine Research grant for the 2020 Horse paper explores the molecular underpinnings of hemangiosarcoma, a Genome Project Workshop at Cornell, and a research grant for Functional deadly cancer that affects both dogs and humans alike. Gene Annotation in the Horse. Antczak’ s recent paper, “Genome Diversity and the Origin of the Arabian Horse,” published in Scientific Left: photo credit: Dr. Samantha Brooks, University of Florida, Reports, received media coverage across the world in publications such collaborator on genetic study of Arabian horses. as The Peninsula, to Daily Veterinary News. Below: Chinatsu Mukai, research associate in the Coonrod Lab. 2 2 23 Ppublilciactiaotni ohingh hligighthslights Chou Shao-Pei, Danko Charles G¥ (2019). AlleleHMM: a data-driven method to identify allele-specific differences in Kshitiz, Afzal Junaid, Maziarz Jamie D, Hamidzadeh Archer, Liang Cong, Erkenbrack Eric M, Kim Hong Nam, Haeger distributed functional genomic marks. Nucleic Acids Research. 2019 June 20;47(11) Jan-Dirk, Pfarrer Christiane, Hoang Thomas, Ott Troy, Spencer Thomas, Pavličev Mihaela, Antczak Douglas F, Levchenko Andrea, Wagner Günter P. Evolution of placental invasion and cancer metastasis are causally linked. Nat Ecol Evol. 2019 Parrish Colin R, Voorhees Ian EH. H3N8 and H3N2 Canine Influenza Viruses: Understanding These New Viruses in Dogs. Vet Dec;3(12):1743-1753. Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2019 Jul;49(4):643-649. Barnard Karen N, Alford-Lawrence Brynn K, Buchholz David W, Wasik Brian R, LaClair Justin R, Yu Hai, Honce Rebekah, Ruhl Tomlinson Joy E, Van de Walle Gerlinde R, Divers Thomas J. What do we know about hepatitis viruses in horses? Vet Clin Stefan, Pajic Petar, Daugherity Erin K, Chen Xi, Schultz-Cherry Stacey L, Aguilar Hector C, Varki Ajit, Parrish Colin R. Modified North Am Equine Pract. 2019 Aug; 35(2):351-362. sialic acids on mucus and erythrocytes inhibit influenza A HA and NA functions. J Virol. 2020 Apr 16; ;94(9):e01567-19. Marx Charlotte, Gardner Sophia, Harman Rebecca M, Van de Walle Gerlinde R. The c stromal cell (MSC) secretome Tramontano Enzo, Tarbet Bart, Spengler Jessica R, Seley-Radtke Katherine, Meier Chris, Jordan Robert, Janeba Zlatko, Gowen impairs methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilms via cysteine protease activity in the equine model. Brian, Gentry Brian, Esté Jose A, Bray Mike, Andrei Graciela, Schang Luis M; on behalf of the International Society for Antiviral Stem Cells Transl Med. 2020 Mar 26. Research – ISAR. Meeting report: 32nd International conference on antiviral research. Antiviral Res. 2019 Sep;169:104550. Mukai Chinatsu; Eunju Choi; Sams Kelly L; Klampen Elena Zu; Anguish Lynne; Marks Brooke A; Rice Edward J; Wang Zhong; Lu Yen-Chu, Chu Tinyi, Hall Matthew S, Fu Dah-Jiun, Shi Qquanming, Chiu Alan, An Duo, Wang Long-Hai, Pardo Choate Lauren A; Shao-Pei Chou; Yukinari Kato; Miller Andrew; Danko Charles G; Coonrod Scott A. Chromatin run-on Yehudah, Southard Teresa, Danko Charles G, Liphardt Jan, Nikitin Alexander Y, Wu Mingming, Fischbach Claudia, Coonrod sequencing analysis finds that ECM remodeling plays an important role in canine hemangiosarcoma pathogenesis. BMC Scott, Ma Minglin. (2019). Physical confinement induces malignant transformation in mammary epithelial cells. Veterinary Research. 28 May 2020. Biomaterials. 2019 Oct;217:119307. Cosgrove Elissa J, Sadeghi Raheleh, Schlamp Florencia, Holl Heather M. Moradi-Shahrbabak Mohammad, Miraei-Ashtiani Lee Hyunhook, Callaway Heather M, Cifuente Javier O, Bator Carol M, Parrish Colin R, Hafenstein Susan L. Transferrin Seyed Reza, Adballa Salma, Shykind Ben, Troedsson Mats, Stefaniuk-Szmukier Monika, Prabhu Anil, Bucca Stefania, Bugno- receptor binds virus capsid with dynamic motion. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2019 Oct 8;116(41):20462-20471.  Poniewiersak Monika, Wallmer Barbara, Malek Joel, Miller Donald C., Clark Andrew G, Antczak Douglas F., Brooks, Samantha A. Genome Diversity and the Origin of the Arabian Horse. Scientific Reports.16 June 2020 McGregor Douglas D, Fraser David R, Parker James SL. Tracking Veterinary Students Who Aspire to Careers in Science.  J Vet Med Educ. 2019 Mar 28;1-6. Tomlinson Joy E, Jager Mason, Struzyna Alyssa, Lavrack Melissa, Fortier Lisa A, Dubovi Edward, Foil Lane D, Burbelo Peter D, Divers Thomas J, Van de Walle Gerlinde R. Tropism, pathology, and transmission of equine parvovirus-hepatitis. Hu MiYao, Depledge Daniel P, Cortes Esteban F, Breuer Judith, Schang Luis M. Chromatin dynamics and the transcriptional Emerging Microbes & Infections. 2020 Mar 20, 651-663. competence of HSV-1 genomes during lytic infections. PLOS Pathogens. 2019 Nov 14;15(11). Sharara Fady, Seaman Eric, Morris Randy, Schinfeld Jay, Nichols Jennifer, Sobel Michael, Lee Annette, Somkuti Stephen, Holmes Camille M, Violette Nathaniel, Miller Donald, Wagner Bettina, Svansson Vihjalmur, Antczak Douglas F. MHC haplotype Hirshberg Steven, Budinetz Tara, Barmat Larry, Palermo Gianpiero, Rosenwaks Zev, Bar-Chama Natan, Bodie Joshua, Nicholas diversity in Icelandic horses determined by polymorphic microsatellites. Genes Immun. 2019 Nov;20(8):660-670. John, Payne John, McCoy Travis, Tarnawa Edward, Whitman-Elia Gail, Weissman Lauren, Doukakis Maria, Hurwitz Joshua, Leondires Mark, Murdock Cynthia, Ressler Ilana, Richlin Spencer, Williams Shaun, Wosnitzer Matthew, Butcher Michael, Wasik Brian R, Voorhees Ian EH, Parrish Colin R. Canine and Feline Influenza. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med. 2019 Dec 30; Kashanian James, Ahlering Peter, Aubuchon Mira, Ostemeir G. Charles, Travis Alexander J. Multicentric, prospective observational data show sperm capacitation predicts male fertility, and cohort comparison reveals a high prevalence of impaired capacitation in men questioning their fertility. Reproductive Biomedicine Online (RBMO). Vol. 41, Issue 1, p69-79, 1 July 2020. For a full list of publications, VISIT OUR WEBSITE. Legend Bold denotes Faculty Underlined denotes other Institute member 24 25 Aactcivte iGvraen tgs rants Douglas F. Antczak Lab John S. L. Parker Lab Luis M. Schang Lab Zweig Memorial Fund Zweig Memorial Fund NIH (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) NIH (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) Studying the Replication Kinetics of Equine Parvovirus Hepatitis (EqPV-H) Functional Gene Annotation in the Horse Mechanisms of Virus-Mediated Compartmentalization of the Host Menage A Trois - Zika Virus, DNA Damage Responses and Microcephaly; Is Zweig Memorial Fund Zweig Memorial Fund Translational Machinery PNKP the Molecular Link? The Mesenchymal Stem Cell Secretome Against Equine Herpesvirus Type 2020 Horse Genome Project Workshop NIH (Office of the Director) NIH (National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease) 1 Infections Scott A. Coonrod Lab Graduate Training Program in Comparative Medicine Chromatin Dynamics in the Regulation of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 NIH (National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases) New York State Department of Health NIH (National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease) Gene Expression Comparative Animal Models of Viral Hepatitis Histone Citrullination in Estrogen Receptor Signaling and Breast Cancer Droplet-Assisted RNA Targeting by Single-Cell Sequencing to Dissect the University of Alberta Joy E. Tomlinson, PI Research Grants Program in Animal Health Single-Cell Heterogeneity of RNA Virus Infection Broad Spectrum Antivirals against RNA Viruses Which Block Cellular Entry Morris Animal Foundation Novel Biomarkers for Canine Hemangiosarcoma NIH (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) Alexander J. Travis Lab Evaluating the Unique Transcriptome Profiles of Individual Equine Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester Short Term Training for Student in the Health Professions NIH (National Institute of Child Health & Human Development) Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Improve Regenerative Therapies Role of PAD2 in ER-DNA Binding and Endocrine Resistance Burroughs Welcome Fund Membrane Lipid Regulation of Calcium Channels in Sperm Charlotte Marx, Postdoctoral Fellowship Charles G. Danko Lab Becoming Faculty Workshop Gerlinde R. Van de Walle Lab Cornell Feline Health Center NIH (National Human Genome Research Institute Colin R. Parrish Lab USDA (National Institute of Food and Agriculture) Characterize MicroRNAs with a Potential Role in Feline Mammary Mapping RNA Polymerase in Tissue Samples with ChRO-seq NIH (National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease) The Antimicrobial Properties of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells as a Biological Cancer Pathogenesis Structural Controls of Functional Receptor and Antibody Binding to Alternative to Conventional Antibiotics in Veterinary MedicineNIH (National Human Genome Research Institute) Cornell Office of Faculty Development and Diversity Evolution of Chromatin Architecture and Transcriptional Regulation Viral Capsids USDA (National Institute of Food and Agriculture) A Novel Xenotransplantation Mouse Model to Study Breast Cancer in Mammals NIH (National Institute of General Medical Sciences) Epidemiology and Pathogenicity of Equine Parvovirus Hepatitis Resistance/Susceptibility Mechanisms NIH (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) The Evolutionary and Biological Bases of Host Switching in Viruses NIFA Federal Capacity Funds (U.S. Department of Agriculture Cornell Biotechnology Resource Center Host-Pathogen Interactions Drive Regulatory Evolution of the Anthrax NIH (National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease) The Mesenchymal Stem Cell Secretome: A Biological Alternative to Treat Metabolomic Analysis of the Equine Mammary Stem/Progenitor Toxin Receptor Effects of Common Sialic Acid Modifications on Virus Binding Bacterial Infections of Agricultural Importance Cell Secretome Lauren Choate, Graduate Fellowship and Infection Rockefeller University Cornell Center for Immunology NASA (National Aeronautics & Space Administration) Characterization of Recently Discovered Liver-Tropic Viruses in Horses Determining the Mechanism of Hepatocellular Necrosis in Equine Pol II Pausing as a Milestone on the Road to Complex Animals Parvoviral Hepatitis 26 27 Cclilniicn Miecm omriael mGivoinrg iParolg rgamiving Connecticut New York Pet Partners Aspetuck Animal Hospital Adirondack Animal Hospital Pleasant Plains Animal Hospital Bolton Veterinary Hospital Animal General Pleasant Valley Animal Hospital When you make a gift in Burlington Veterinary Center Animal Hospital of Niskayuna Pleasantville Animal Hospital memory of your client’s The Baker Institute Clinic Memorial Giving Program Davis Companion Animal Hospital Animal Kind Veterinary Hospital R. M. Stack Veterinary Hospital deceased pet, your client offers veterinarians a special way to memorialize a Fairfield Veterinary Hospital Animal Medical Ridge Animal Hospital will receive a letter informing them of your Georgetown Veterinary Hospital Animal Medical of New City client’s beloved pet. Rondout Valley Veterinarian kind gesture in addition Manchester Veterinary Clinic Animal Wellness of Skaneateles Saugerties Animal Hospital to a copy of our Grieving Memorial gifts, whether from an individual or a veterinary clinic, provide vital support to Milford Animal Hospital Ardsley Veterinary Associates Sleepy Hollow Animal Hospital brochure. Produced the Baker Institute’s renowned research programs. To learn more about our Memorial Gift North Windham Animal Hospital Aurora Pet Hospital in collaboration South Towne Veterinary Hospital Programs, please contact our Office of Alumni Affairs & Development at: 607.256.5604 or with licensed social Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital Baldwin Animal Hospital & Bird Clinic petfriends@cornell.edu. | July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020 Springville Animal Hospital work and psychiatric Schulhof Animal Hospital Barre Animal Hospital Stone Ridge Veterinary Clinic professsionals, this South Windsor Veterinary Clinic Briarcliff Manor Animal Hosp Storybook Farm Veterinary Hospital brochure discusses the grieving process, how Suffield Veterinary Hospital Brook Farm Veterinary Center Suffolk Veterinary Service it can manifest itself in Winsted Hospital for Animals Central Animal Hospital Sutton Animal Hospital peoples’ lives, and when Central Veterinary Hospital The Moriches Hospital For Animals to consider seeking Delaware assistance after the loss Lums Pond Animal Hospital Cheektowaga Veterinary Hospital Thorn Avenue Animal Hospital of a cherished pet. Clark Animal Care Center Three Village Veterinary Hospital Maine Clark Animal Care Center Town and Country Hospital for Pets Down Maine Veterinary Clinic Cobleskill Veterinary Clinic University Animal Hospital Farmington Veterinary Clinic Corfu Darien Veterinary Clinic Veterinary Care of Ithaca Windsor Veterinary Clinic Crossroads Veterinary Clinic Veterinary Center of EasAt bNoourtt thhpeo Brtaker Insti Maryland Deer Park Animal Hospital The t uBa tk eer Ino su tit t ub ta es i fc o a r n Ad n it mra an l Healt Fallston Veterinary Clinic Ohio p slatioEastview Veterinary Clinic articularly n h w a i l s i r d th es e e da icrc ah te i dtrac respect n ta on i cm arrying Westvale Veterinary Clinki cre cor ad o tof s cu oc mp l a he a nn cess i i alt d t n o n h a ,n imals. Flower Valley Veterinary Clinic he h impro We Felton Veterinary Services umans wh ving the ho a vlo ev ae the hm ea. lth of aWoodbury Animal Hosp nimTh aleit ss ea inlnov Layhill Animal Hospital atioFountain House Veterinary Clinic ns include: • Developm Genesee Valley Equine Clinic Pennsylvaniana ent o d f c va an ccin ine e p sa fr or Massachusetts • Gen vo d vi ir su tes mpee rt ,i c k et ne nst es l f co or u h gi hp , lavende dysplas Goosepond Animal Hospital Wrights Corners Anima• Al Carer foCal ss esnynter ia, canineBlandford Animal Hospital ist d e rd ome, a n ed ye r m e dpro o i r se ord du ec rt si ,o n Gracelane Kennels Veterinary Oncology & wRiledlfifee rspra te ec cil he ns ology to help endan Brockton Animal Hospital gered Greenpoint Veterinary Hospital Veterinary Oncology and Referral ClinicCape Ann Veterinary Hospital Dr. Raymond Hayes Cummings Veterinary HospitalLinwood Animal Hospital Mattapoisett Animal Hospital Highland Animal Hospital Rhode Island Norfolk County Veterinary Service Jacobson Veterinary ClinRiecsourc Milford Animal Hospitales for Help West Roxbury Animal Hospital Hilton Veterinary Hospita• l Cornell Univ P ee rt s iL to ys Cs oS lu leg South CarolinaDr. Jean Ferreri p6 p e 0 o o 7 r. t f Vete 2 5 H3 o. t3 l9 in ri e n a ry Med32 icine Montana • ASPCA Thoreau Veterinary Hospital GLagrange Veterinary Hosp8 ital rief C7 o7 u.4 n7 s4 e. l3 in3 g1 Hotline Glacier Animal Hospital 0 • Associat Lyndon Veterinary Clinic ion B foe rr e Pa ev te Lo Utahme ssn and h tt t ps://www New Jersey .apManetto Hill Animal Clinic lb.org Thornwood VeterinarVy Hospitalisit our website to learn m American Animal Hospital www.vet. ore:Manhasset Animal Hospital Vermont cornell.edu/Baker Animal General Gr AManlius Veterinary Hospital Ferguson Animal Hospital ieving guide toy ho eu l pco Bryan Animal Hospital Baker In pe witMeadowridge Veterinary Hospital sVirginia tit h 2 u3 te th5 H fou rn A lg nima os e erf sI ot rd l oha HH e fca i, l a l lth y R ooa ud r pet Larchmont Animal Hospital NewMoriches Hospital for Animals Creekside Veterinary CliniPc Y h oo rn ke 1: 4 6 80 57 3.256.5600 Marsh Hospital For Animals Nanuet Animal Hospital Pet Stop Veterinary Clinic Matawan Animal Hospital North Country Veterinary Services Otterside Animal Hospital Oradell Animal Hospital North Shore Veterinary Hospital Godspeed Animal Care Parkside Veterinary Associates Montrose Animal Health Center 28 29 Hhoononr Roorll o rf Goivlinlg of giving $100,000 and above Dr. William J. Kay Mrs. Carol V. Mead Ms. Susan Matheson Pollitt and Mr. Robert G. Engman and We wish to express our gratitude to all who Mrs. Mary Jane Engman Dr. Joseph H. Kinnarney and Mr. Bradley Marlow Dr. Lloyd E. Miller Mr. Jerome J. Pollitt contributed this past year. Mr. John Konwiser and Mrs. Anabel Konwiser Ms. Arlene C. Mirsky-Macnamara Dr. David Rojek and Mrs. Sally Rojek $40,000 - $99,999 Kyle’s Legacy Dr. Karen A. Oros Mr. Joseph A. Russo While space prevents us from listing all names, please know that your support is deeply Albert C. Bostwick Foundation – Mr. Albert C. Mr. Reinaldo Santos appreciated. | July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020 Ms. Marta J. Lawrence Mr. Michael RhodinBostwick, Mr. Andrew G.C. Sage II and Dr. Brett William Shecter and Mr. Michael R. Parker Mrs. Sydney Leach and Mr. Howard H. Leach Jr. Mr. Robert Scalise Dr. Peter L. Malnati Jr. and Mrs. Gail Malnati Mr. Larry Shackman Mrs. Marcelle Helene DePlaza $10,000 – $39,999 Ms. Pamela W. McGarry and Mr. William McGarry Dr. Robert N. Swanson and Mr. Philip A. Stein Burroughs Wellcome Fund Dr. Bari-Sue G. Mermelstein Ms. Rosemary D. Karaka Ms. Marion C. Steinberg *Ms. Nancy E. Greene Ms. Diane Reed Ms. Martha Terrell Mr. C. H. Steinhour and Mrs. Maryrita F. Steinhour Dr. Jake Holshuh II and Ms. Susan Clair Leverton Dr. Margaret A. Reed Dr. Jonathan P. Walker Mr. Stewart A. Sutton and Ms. Janet P. Sutton Dr. Donald C. Powell and Mrs. Rita L. Powell Mr. Scott Roth Mr. Stephen C. Wasley Mr. Brian Taylor Dr. Keith P. Richter Ms. Mary-Jean Secoolish Mrs. Lorraine Whitehouse Dr. Dina P. Tresnan Ms. Alice C. Sinclair Dr. John D. Stoner Ms. Susan L. Wolf Mr. Paul M. Vileno Ms. Elaine C. Wilson and Mr. W. Weldon Wilson Mr. Stuart E. Sucherman Mr. Stephen R. Weidman$250 - $499 $5,000 - $9,999 Mr. Jan H. Suwinski and Ms. Susan Suwinski Mr. Fred E. WhiteMr. Samuel D. Alleyne Mr. David A. Behnke and Mr. Paul F. Doherty Jr. Dr. Carvel G. Tiekert Dr. James S. YoungMr. Warren Bicknell III Ms. Laura Louise Breyer Tioga County Kennel Club *Denotes deceasedDr. Peter W. Bloch Mr. John E. Butler Dr. Alexander H. Walsh III Ms. Barbara Cacoulidis Mr. George D. Edwards Jr. and Mrs. Gail Edwards Dr. Gayle Watkins Mrs. Linda M. Cook and Mr. David R. Cook Ernst Reuter Society *Mr. William L. Griffin $500 - $999 Dr. Clifford G. Cummings Adirondack Foundation, Rocky Bog Fund Ms. Florence Cusano Dr. Richard P. Henry and Mrs. Fay N. Henry Advanced Veterinary Services Mrs. Joanne C. Decher Mr. John C. Oxley and Mrs. Debby Oxley Ms. Karen M. Ashey Ms. Anna Diaz-Cruz Mrs. Judy Wilpon and Mr. Fred Wilpon Ms. Helen M. Baran Dr. Naomi B. Esmon $1,000 - $4,999 Mr. Stephen F. Beaudin and Mr. Michael R. Faber Dr. Doug Antczak and Dr. Wendy S. Robertson Mrs. Elizabeth T. Beaudin Mr. Mike Flaiiz Dr. Alan C. Baum and Mrs. Andrea Baum Ms. Tracy Beck Dr. L. William Goodman and Mrs. Nancy Goodman Ms. Wendy H. Bicknell Mr. Michael J. Brenner and Ms. Lynda M. Brenner Ms. Ruth Smith Goodstein and Dr. Joanne Margaret Bicknese Mr. Reg Bronskill Mr. Peter H. Goodstein Dr. Jack J. Brennan Mr. Jeffrey Christensen Dr. Ferris G. Gorra Mr. Robert Bruns Ms. Brandy Clark Mr. E. Paul Herbert Mr. Robert C. Chalfont Ms. Diane Dalecki Ms. Vanessa H. Hicks-Voorham Ms. Margaret L. Cone Ms. Alice C. Davenport and Mr. Sanford Gordon Mrs. Jeanne Hosler Ms. Michele Digiansante Dr. Gabriel T. Durkac Mr. Ronald S. Jacobs Edna P. Jacobsen Charitable Trust for Animals Ms. Alayne Evans Ms. Julie Elizabeth Kane Finger Lakes Kennel Club Dr. Harvey Fisch Dr. Richard A. Kelleway Mrs. Susan O. Grabel and Mr. Jeffry Grabel Dr. Jessica B. Flechtner and Ms. Betsy E. Landsman Mr. William F. Gratz and Mr. Jay Bruno Dr. Donald D. Flechtner Mr. Robert E. Little Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Elise Gabriele Mrs. Adrienne M. Lustig Steven S. Lindsay Memorial Fund Mr. Frederick C. Haas Mr. Robert G. Maki Ms. Susanne R. Handler Ms. Vicki R. Herrmann Ms. Donna L. Mochi Ms. LeeAnn Hughes-Mastin Ms. Germaine L. Hodges Dr. John A. North Dr. David Harvey Jenkins and Ms. Janis L. Koch Dr. Colin Ross Parrish and Dr. Debra Nero Mrs. Patrice Kay Jenkins Mr. Stephen Leibeck and Dr. Amy R. Leibeck Ms. Louise T. Peeples Mr. Robert J. Joy and Ms. Priscilla Joy Dr. Ann Marie Warner Lill and Mr. Charles G. Lill Ms. Penny K. Pickett 3 0 31 Ffiinnanacinalscials Ccaayuygua gSoaci estyociety Advancing animal health takes people who care. The Mr. George W. Anderson following individuals have carefully and generously planned their contributions for the Baker Institute Clarice C. Barber through their will. Their generosity is honored with membership in the Cayuga Society. Mr. Alexander J. Cox If you would like to advance animal health by naming the Baker Institute in your will, Ms. Cindy L. Griswold contact us or use the following language. I hereby give, devise, and bequeath to the Dr. Jake Holshuh II Baker Institute for Animal Health at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University, an educational corporation in Ithaca, New York, for its general purposes {… Mrs. Adrienne M. Lustig dollars} {…percent} {all the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate}. Mr. Prescott Miller Story & Please contact us for more information or to let us know of Ms. Kathleen A. Thornhill your gift plans via email at BakerInstitute@cornell.edu or by phone at 607.256.5604. * BOLD are new members 2020 Revenues 2020 expenses Endowment Income ........38.7% ....$3,341,173 Research Support ............ 64.0% ....$7,035,212 Grants & Contracts ..........35.9% ...$3,097,255 Infrastructure ...................... 16.9% ....$1,861,424 Gifts & Bequests.................7.1%....... $ 608,830 College and University Support & Services ......... 11.6% ..... $1,277,987 Faculty Support .................. 11.0% ...... $953,874 Administration College Support ..................3.4% ........$291,859 & Development ................... 7.5%.........$820,042 Revenues & Royalties ....3.9% .......$340,443 32 3 3 Baker Institute for Animal Health 235 Hungerford Hill Road Ithaca, NY 14853 www.vet.cornell.edu/baker bakerinstitute@cornell.edu 607.256.5600 our vision A healthier future for the animals that so faithfully serve mankind our mission To improve animal health through scientific discovery our goal To be the leading institution in animal health research worldwide Your support makes a difference. To give now, either: • Donate online at vet.cornell.edu/Baker • Call our Office of Alumni Affairs and Development at 607.256.5604 Photography – Rachel Philipson, Allison Usavage, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, and friends of the Baker Institute for Animal Health • Contributors – Patricia Waldron, Heather Hughes, Teresa Griffin • Editor – Heather Hughes • Designer – Flourish Design Studio 3 4