FP7-KBBE-2007-1 (link)                  

KBBE-2007-1-1-02

Mining genomics information of farm animals to generate new information on the genetic basis of phenotypes important to sustainable animal

This project will use functional and comparative genomics and/or in silico analysis to dissect the genetic basis of one or more specified traits. The outcome of the research will be molecular diagnostic tools to assist in selective improvement of breeding stock of farmed animals.

Reduction of N excretion in ruminants

Research on fundamental aspects of nitrogen metabolism is needed to reduce nitrogen excretion from dairy farming. The objective is to obtain knowledge of the complex interactions between ruminal, microbial and intermediary metabolism and to develop new strategies for feeding and managing high yielding dairy cows to reduce nitrogen loss. The research will address the following tasks: development of rapid tools for measuring protein

degradability and microbial synthesis, calibration of in vivo and ex vivo methods on the base of animal experiments; investigation of N metabolism in the rumen, understanding of aminoacid absorption in the intestine and metabolism of absorbed amino-acids and their conversion to milk; harmonisation of protein evaluation systems in Europe; and development of reliable tools to assess N adequacy on animal and farm level.

KBBE-2007-1-3-01

Breeding tools for improved livestock products

The project will develop new, practical technologies to measure product quality and animal robustness and tools to measure the consequences of breeding for specific traits on other characteristics (e.g. robustness on product quality and vice versa). It will include statistical methodologies that can cope with a complex biological background. Genetic tools, based on genomic information, promise to improve selection for specific traits. However, this development is slow partially as a result of lack of data and partially as a result of lack of tools for processing data. In addition, the interaction of prioritised traits (such as added value

of products) with those affecting the animal themselves (robustness) means that selection can rarely be aimed at a single characteristic.

KBBE-2007-1-3-03

Optimising research efforts for the development of the most effective tools for controlling infectious animal diseases

This project will take an integrated, rational and methodological approach in order to

accelerate the process of research and development of tools against major infectious diseases, including zoonoses, for food animals; minor species; non-food animals and wildlife. The aim of the coordination action is to undertake three successive stages of preliminary assessments in order to best target areas of research. These are: the prioritisation of the infectious diseases; a gap analysis for the priority diseases; and an analysis of available and new technologies with an assessment of their value for the future development of tools. A “gated management” approach will be included.

Coordination and support action aiming at coordinating research activities

KBBE-2007-1-3-04

Development of rational strategies for the eradication of bovine

Tuberculosis, caused by bacteria of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, is present in many wild animal species in EU countries. The spread of the infection between wildlife and domestic animals and the role of some wild species acting as reservoirs of infection for livestock is well documented. Infected wildlife is a threat for the progress of the eradication campaigns, may have an impact on public health and on protected and endangered species.

The project will deliver improved tools and develop strategies for the eradication of bovine tuberculosis in areas where the disease is present in both domestic and wildlife populations. It will include in particular: 1) vaccination of bovine animals, wildlife and feral reservoirs, (2) control of populations to reach numbers compatible with animal welfare, (3) improved diagnostic tools for detection of infected animals, (4) strategies to limit the contact between domestic and wild species. The diversity of wild species (some legally protected) and farming systems should also be taken into account

KBBE-2007-1-3-05

Evaluating and controlling the risk of African Swine Fever in the EU

African swine fever (ASF) is one of the most devastating diseases of swine. The EU has succeeded in its eradication except in Sardinia where it remains endemic. The impact on trade for the whole of Italy has been adverse in particular for exports of pork meat products leading to import barriers by third countries. The situation of ASF in African countries has greatly increased, reaching unprecedented levels. Currently ASF is widespread in more than 20 sub-Saharan countries. The cause is thought to be the presence of carrier animals, mainly due to a higher proportion of local resistant pigs than to the “white” pig. As local pigs do not suffer the disease but become carriers, there is a greater viral circulation, representing a permanent threat and risk transmission to the EU. In view of this new situation, research should be targeted to the following: risk analysis for the introduction of the virus into the EU; characterisation of currently circulating field viruses in African countries and Sardinia; development and validation of sensitive diagnostic techniques, including pen-side tests, with

the existing field viruses; host-pathogen interaction and viral immune response in view of the development of a vaccine; development of new control strategies focused on the situation in Africa. The project should contain a component of training and technology transfer. Third

countries participation, especially of ICPC partners, is encouraged.

KBBE-2007-1-4-15

Assessing the socio-economic consequences and costs benefits of measures promoting good animal welfare

This project will assess the benefits and costs to society, the livestock industry, and to the animal, of measures aimed at promoting animal welfare. It will include analysis of welfare standards in the EU and in third countries, evaluation of methods used for documentation of animal welfare and behaviour and implications on international trade and competitiveness.

Typically, European consumers demand high levels of animal welfare in livestock production. Regulation to improve animal welfare, however, raises fears of unfair competition for imported livestock products. Despite this, some high welfare standards may not imply significant additional costs, and some may result in added value and increased economic benefits.

KBBE-2007-1-4-16

Establishment of an information platform on the protection and welfare of animals

This project will develop a forum for the interchange of information on animal welfare research by different stakeholders. It will identify best practices, disseminate information on such practices and develop information tools and communication strategies in the animal welfare field. It will identify areas within current and proposed animal welfare legislation where more knowledge is needed and will help identify and prioritise needs for animal welfare research of interest to Europe.

Coordination and support action aiming at supporting the KBBE

KBBE-2007-1-4-17

Models for the extrapolation of maximum residue limits (MRLs) from one species to another

This project should develop models that allow the extrapolation of maximum residue limits (MRL) from toxicological studies in one species another species. MRLs are an important tool in the strategy to protect public health from veterinary medicines in animal products. Currently, individual studies need to be established in all each species that a medicinal product is licensed for. Using data across species would improve the efficiency of licensing if

such extrapolation could be carried out in a robust fashion.

Coordination and support action aiming at coordinating research activities

KBBE-2007-1-4-16

Establishment of an information platform on the protection and welfare of animals

This project will develop a forum for the interchange of information on animal welfare research by different stakeholders. It will identify best practices, disseminate information on such practices and develop information tools and communication strategies in the animal welfare field. It will identify areas within current and proposed animal welfare legislation where more knowledge is needed and will help identify and prioritise needs for animal welfare research of interest to Europe.

KBBE-2007-3-3-03

ANIMAL BY-PRODUCTS - Novel methods of treatment of animal by-products for the production of substances with biologically valuable functional properties

By-products of the animal processing industry represent an increasing volume of biomass, whose potential is under-utilised. Development of efficient biotechnological methods for the treatment of non-valuable meat and poultry processing intermediates, for the production of proteins and other biologically valuable substances with specific functional properties to be used as raw material for other industrial uses. The aims of this project are: Optimisation of new enzymes (e.g. collagenase, keratinase, peptidase) and multienzyme blends for rational design of functional properties of the target products; Application of the newly obtained

products with programmed functional properties (e.g. high food and feed value, as bioactive peptides, high water retention, optimal amino acid composition, low allergenicity, optimised immunological response and protection against infectious diseases, etc.) for alimentary animal-feeding, pharmaceutical or cosmetic industry and other uses. Establishing modern and efficient technological methods for biofuel (biodiesel, biogas) production from animal byproducts. Development of a technology platform for multi-purpose processing of industrial

by-products, to be adapted in different industrial sectors. This topic excludes fish- based waste.

Small collaborative project

FP7-KBBE-2007-2A (this Call is foreseen to be formally published on 8 May 2007)                      

KBBE-2007-1-1-04

Development of technologies and tools for the exploitation of livestock genome

The project will deliver improved tools using a pre-selected group of technologies. With the generation of animal genome sequences, livestock production finds itself on the cusp of a new generation of technologies. However, to fully exploit the sequence information, a series of downstream tools needs to be developed. The purpose of this project is to assist in the exploitation of the available livestock genome sequences on a comparative basis by providing sequence and annotation data and by developing tools.

KBBE-2007-1-3-07

Improving animal health, product quality and performance of organic and low-input livestock systems through integration of breeding and innovative

In this project, different breeding concepts will be analysed for their success in achieving specific breeding aims (health condition, tolerance to stress, product quality, etc) needed for organic and low-input rearing of livestock. Prioritising farm-level research, indicators will be developed and tested in different breeding programmes, integrating management and feeding practices in different macro-climatic regions including ICPC, with the purpose to produce high quality and differentiated food products. Multicriteria evaluation of systems shall be considered through experimental/model approaches and integrating innovative management

techniques.. Thus, the project will assist in reducing the gap between the genetic potential of livestock and their site- and environment- specific performance. The work may address cattle, pig, small ruminant and/or poultry production systems, which, in addition to food production, may also be desirable for tourism, rural development and landscape management.

Large collaborative project

KBBE-2007-1-3-08

Improved epidemiological tools for zoonoses: application of geographical information for live animals and animal products

The aim of this project is to enhance capacity and improve methodology for the surveillance of zoonoses. It will include the definition of the minimum agreed information to be collected. While the application of geographical information to infectious disease data is an increasingly

used tool for epidemiological studies, the information currently available within the EU would be of higher value if it was linked to the geographical distribution of livestock, trade dynamics and control strategies in the member states. There is, therefore, a need to assess the value of European and national databases and to recommend how they can be integrated. Leading third countries, in particular the USA, should be part of the project.

Network of excellence

KBBE-2007-1-3-09

Neglected zoonoses in developing countries: integrated approach for

There is consolidated evidence and models which show the significant burden in terms of morbidity, mortality and economic costs which some zoonoses qualified by WHO as "neglected zoonoses” pose to developing countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia. Eradication and control programmes for some of these have been funded by major donors. However the diseases are still prevalent in many of the poorest countries in the world. The technological advances in diagnostics and vaccines open a window of opportunity to improve the control measures and hence bring a double benefit to both animal and public health and, improve socio-economic conditions, thus contributing to poverty alleviation. The diseases to be targeted are: anthrax, rabies, brucellosis, bovine TB, zoonotic trypanosomiasis, echinococcosis, cysticercosis and leishmaniasis. The programme will include 1) mapping research activities at global level, 2) improving or developing disease control tools where needed and appropriate for the conditions prevailing in affected countries 3) develop control and prevention strategies taking into account the economic, sociological and cultural aspects related to the diseases as well as the traditional knowledge. The attribution of a major role to women, both in the veterinary profession as well as in the populations concerned, should be sought.

Large collaborative project

FP7-ERANET-2007-RTD (link)                  

KBBE-2007-1-3-02

Coordination of European research in the area of animal health,

Coordination of national research activities at the European level is important in fighting animal diseases, including fish diseases, which are a significant threat to human health. Pooling different expertise in different Member States will facilitate the generation of an integrated approach to research activities and the development of a common evidence base, which will, in turn, help the development of policy and the identification of common research

priorities.

Coordination and support action

FP7-KBBE-2007-1 (link)

KBBE-2007-1-2-10

Improving cost-efficiency in the fisheries

The project will investigate possible improvements in cost-efficiency of fisheries through changes in fishing effort and geographical and seasonal fishing patterns, change of gear, implementation of new gear design, etc. and propose management measures that would direct

the fishing fleet towards adopting a more cost-efficient strategy. This should be accompanied by an energy impact evaluation, and research into the options for energy savings and the linkages between fishing practices and energy consumption will be a necessary basis for such evaluations. Beyond economic concerns there is a need to consider options for increased energy efficiency in order to reduce emissions that may contribute to climate change. There

needs to be a strong social and economic component in the research.

Small collaborative project

KBBE-2007-1-2-11

Improving research in support to scientific advice to fisheries management outside EU waters

The project will support the development of a network of fisheries research with third

countries, with the aim to improve coordination of research programmes promoted by different actors (Commission, Members States, Associated States, concerned third countries and international organisations such as FAO and regional fisheries organisations). The project will deliver a synopsis of data available and methodologies applied in collection, analysis, dissemination and management procedures in support to scientific advice to fisheries management in the concerned regions. It will also establish needs for further research in order to maintain the basis for a sustainable resource utilisation.

Coordination and support action aiming at coordinating research activities

KBBE-2007-1-2-12

Consolidate alliances with third countries in the field of aquaculture

The objective of the project is to set up a network of aquaculture research with third countries, with the aim to promote coordination of research and facilitate the emergence of joint research programmes in the concerned regions. The project should also develop a multistakeholder

platform for dialogue, disseminate knowledge up to final users and should

establish needs for further research in order to maintain the basis for a sustainable aquaculture development in the concerned regions.

Mitigating adverse impacts of fisheries

The project will develop measures needed to mitigate adverse impacts of fisheries. Known impacts comprise habitat destruction and by-catch of non-target species, including seabirds, sea mammals and turtles, in addition to undesirable biological interactions induced by the

exploitation of fish species. Mitigation measures could include new technologies and fishing practices, supported by management measures such as closed areas and gear restriction. The

inclusion of ICPC partners is encouraged.

KBBE-2007-1-2-14

The structure of fish populations and traceability of fish and fish products

The project will improve the traceability of fish and fish products through understanding and mapping the structure of fish populations by investigating life history traits, genetic composition, physiological and morphological characteristics and other indicators of

population sub-structure. Traceability could be applied in both fisheries control and in

consumer information. Furthermore, sustaining the components of a population and understanding their function is important, partly to avoid over-exploitation of local fish populations and loss of genetic material. The ultimate objectives would be to obtain improved traceability of fish and fish products, to consider the management implications of the results and advice on actions, and to develop a methodology for monitoring potential changes in the

population structure. Inclusion of ICPC partners is encouraged.

KBBE-2007-1-2-16

Essential biological functions related to the most relevant stages of

This project will clarify the mechanisms of essential biological functions related to the most relevant stages of aquaculture fish life-history (larval development, growth, maturation, reproduction) at both a physiological and molecular level. Despite the recent developments in aquaculture, our knowledge base on basic life-requirements of farmed fish remains limited. The combined use of genomic tools with a better understanding of physiological and behavioural features throughout the fish life-cycle will allow for a better insight on key biological processes, and help to overcome bottlenecks in the production cycle of commercially important species.

KBBE-2007-1-4-19

Governance for an operational regional ecosystem approach to

The project will evaluate the options for a gradual transition from the current management regime to a mature ecosystem approach, with specific focus on operational strategies for the

implementation of the ecosystem approach to fisheries management at the regional level. The project will focus on governance issues; how institutional frameworks are developed which will enable industry groups, citizen groups, managers and other stakeholders to share knowledge and reach decisions regarding the management of fisheries in a marine ecosystem

approach. Ecological, social and economic values have to be considered in the development of management objectives and operational instruments. The project should cover at least two different eco-regions.

Small collaborative project

KBBE-2007-1-4-20

Addressing uncertainty and complexity – governance for fisheries management

The project will investigate how different actors in the marine sector, including fisheries, make use of scientific knowledge, how the roles that scientists play help formulate policies and how governance approaches can be developed which enable policy decisions to address

uncertainty and complexity based on research and with the participation of stakeholders. Like other aspects of environmental regulation, the demand on scientific expertise in marine management is very strong. Inevitably, scientific knowledge is incomplete and uncertain and, whichever advice is delivered, has economic, social and political impacts upon a wide array of agents with conflicting interests, values and objectives. In addition, with calls for addressing multiple objectives in an integrated manner, handling knowledge as a basis for decision making becomes increasingly complex. The project will collect and build on

experiences from a diverse range of EU policy areas which address interactions between human activities and nature.

KBBE-2007-1-4-21

Interactions of fisheries and aquaculture of bluefin tuna

The objective of this task is to establish the scientific knowledge based on the interactions between bluefin tuna (BFT) aquaculture and fisheries from biological, economic and societal short- to long-term perspectives. The fattening of BFT in cages based on the capture of wild fish is an increasing practice in Mediterranean countries. However, there is a growing concern among different stakeholders about interactions between fisheries and BFT aquaculture, which could have profound impacts. Despite some research efforts, there are still many gaps in the knowledge base required for a controlled development of this activity, e.g. impact of

catching different age classes, impact of fishing of feed species, economic and social impacts.

 Coordination and support action aiming at supporting the KBBE