"All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others."

   

In his 1945 novel Animal Farm, George Orwell's Pigs in Power had something else in mind when they proclaimed, "... some animals are more equal than others."  But, Dr. Fant's explanation of veterinary technology placed this in a new light.  Now, data and technology offer ways to improve the quality of life for both farmers and animals (Source:  Michigan State University)  

    Zoetis, a global leader in animal health, is renowned for its unwavering commitment to innovation and advancing veterinary medicine.  Dr. Charli Fant, an esteemed scientist at Zoetis, plays a pivotal role in driving groundbreaking research and development.  Let's explore Zoetis' captivating scientific advancements and Dr. Fant's exceptional work!

    With a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Colorado Boulder, Dr. Fant brings extensive knowledge and expertise to her role at Zoetis.  Her research on human transcription and the role of TFIID in enabling RNA Polymerase II promoter-proximal pausing forms a solid foundation for her work.  Leading the Experimental Pharmacology team at Zoetis' incubator, Dr. Fant designs and conducts experiments to test therapeutics.  Her team also develops disease models to minimize reliance on animal testing.  By leveraging in vitro methodologies and computer modeling, they ensure treatment safety and efficacy while reducing the need for animal experimentation.  Dr. Fant's focus on precision livestock farming was especially interesting.  This innovative approach integrates technology, data analytics, and advanced sensors to optimize animal health, welfare, and productivity.  Leveraging artificial intelligence and predictive models, Zoetis aims to revolutionize livestock management, resulting in healthier herds and improved farming practices.

    Zoetis' website showcases various research areas, including genomic solutions for animal health.  By deciphering genetic mysteries underlying diseases and traits, Zoetis develops targeted therapies, vaccines, and diagnostics tailored to individual animals or breeds.  This personalized approach holds promise for disease prevention and improving animal well-being.

    Immunology is another area where Zoetis excels.  The company invests heavily in innovative immunotherapies that bolster the immune response, mitigate infectious diseases, and enhance animal vaccine efficacy.  Zoetis' cutting-edge research leads to more effective disease prevention and treatment strategies.

    One notable product on Zoetis' website is Simparica Trio, an innovative dog parasitic treatment.  This comprehensive solution offers broad-spectrum protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites, ensuring the overall well-being of dogs.  Simparica Trio's highly effective and convenient monthly chewable format simplifies protection for pet owners.

Simparica Trio is a three-way defense chewable tablet developed by Zoetis to protect dogs against heartworms, intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks.  Simparica Trio has three main ingredients.  Sarolaner is an ectoparasiticide that kills fleas and five different species of ticks before they can start laying eggs.  Moxidectin is an antiparasitic that prevents the development of heartworms.  And, Pyrantel is an anthelmintic that treats intestinal parasites such as roundworm and hookworm.  Combined into one product and given monthly, Simparica Trio gives all-around protection.  (Source:  Penny Paws Animal Clinic)

    Dr. Fant emphasizes Zoetis' commitment to the safety of medicines for animals and humans.  The company thoroughly assesses the potential cross-reactivity of drugs with human proteins, considering factors like half-life to ensure safety.

    Zoetis has achieved significant milestones, including distributing an animal COVID vaccine to zoos worldwide and gaining approval for Librela, a monoclonal antibody for dogs.  The Zoetis Incubator of Northern Colorado (ZINC) is a hub for collaborative research and development, fostering innovation.  Employing cutting-edge techniques and in silico technology, Zoetis maximizes scientific advancements while minimizing reliance on animal testing.  This approach supports animal welfare and the development of safe and effective treatments.

    With Dr. Fant's expertise and Zoetis' relentless pursuit of advancing animal health, the company remains at the forefront of veterinary medicine.  Their mission to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal diseases improves the lives of animals and their human counterparts.  Zoetis' innovations and commitment to animal welfare continue to shape the field of veterinary medicine.

At the end of her presentation, Dr. Fant offered several thought-provoking questions.  The one that resonated with me was, "What is your purpose?" The boundless possibilities of scientific discovery captivate me, fueling my passion for unraveling nature's mysteries.  Science's structured framework for exploration, experimentation, and innovation ignites my curiosity.  The potential to make a positive impact through groundbreaking advancements inspires me.  Collaborating with others in scientific endeavors invigorates me, while the hands-on research, critical thinking, and problem-solving involved bring me a sense of purpose and accomplishment.  Driven by these values, I am dedicated to pursuing scientific excellence and a career in medicine.