Study links brain malformations in Piedmontese calves to genetics

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A new Frontiers in Veterinary Science study describes congenital structural brain malformations in Piedmontese calves from northwestern Italy and suggests these cases may be more genetically driven than virally caused. In the prospective observational study, researchers evaluated calves from 2021 through 2025 and found that 11 of 70 necropsied calves with suspected CNS anomalies had confirmed structural brain defects. Hydrocephalus was the most common finding, appearing in 6 of 11 cases and often occurring alongside cerebellar malformations. The team also identified isolated Dandy-Walker-like malformations in two calves, cerebral aplasia in three, and a severe medullary dysplastic anomaly. Molecular testing was negative in all cases for bovine viral diarrhea virus, bluetongue virus, and Schmallenberg virus, leading the authors to suspect a genetic etiology; genomic analyses are underway. (frontiersin.org)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the paper is a reminder to keep congenital CNS malformations on the differential list when neonatal calves present with neurological signs, especially in breeds or regions with concentrated genetics. The authors note these disorders are likely underrecognized, and the study adds practical value by pairing clinical exams, CSF analysis, imaging in selected cases, molecular testing, necropsy, and histopathology. That diagnostic framing could help clinicians distinguish congenital defects from infectious, metabolic, or toxic causes earlier in the workup. (frontiersin.org)

What to watch: The next development is the group’s ongoing genomic work, which could clarify whether specific inherited risk variants are contributing to these malformations in Piedmontese cattle. (frontiersin.org)