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Huskisson & Freeman studying gut health of red pandas

2024-10-07
(Press-News.org)

Sarah Huskisson, PhD candidate, Environmental Science and Policy, College of Science, is characterizing the gastrointestinal (GI) health of red pandas using short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations. Huskisson is advised by Elizabeth Freeman, Associate Professor, School of Integrative Studies. Huskisson is co-Principal Investigator on the project.

Huskisson and Freeman aim to provide the first characterization of SCFA concentrations for red pandas and hope that differences in concentrations can be pinpointed between healthy and mucoid/loose stools. 

They have two hypotheses. 

First, they hypothesize that healthy/formed fecal samples will be associated with a more balanced ratio of SCFA types (e.g., acetate, butyrate) than mucoid/loose stools.

Second, they hypothesize that reduced overall concentrations of SCFAs will be linked to increased concentrations of stress hormone metabolites. 

The present study is contributing to their larger goal of understanding factors that contribute to the health and well-being of endangered red pandas. Through this dynamic, multi-faceted study, Huskisson and Freeman will measure how readily observable indicators of health (i.e., fecal quality and glucocorticoid metabolites), red panda personality, management, and environmental conditions relate to SCFAs and GI health. Results of this study will allow researchers to develop a method to proactively identify GI distress in red pandas and enact timely intervention, ultimately maximizing quality of life for the charismatic red pandas.

They hold that this study is important because, to date, scientists have not examined physiological and environmental correlates of GI distress in red pandas with this methodology. 

With this research, Huskisson and Freeman will augment empirical knowledge of gut-brain axis function in general and improve knowledge of the biology of endangered and understudied red pandas.

Huskisson and Freeman will receive $2,205 from Potter Park Zoo for this project. Funding will begin in Oct. 2024 and will end in Oct. 2025.

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ABOUT GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

George Mason University is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason enrolls more than 40,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility. In 2023, the university launched Mason Now: Power the Possible, a one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and stewardship.Learn more at gmu.edu.

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[Press-News.org] Huskisson & Freeman studying gut health of red pandas