Editorial: Innovative approaches in veterinary pathology: diagnostics, therapeutics, and zoonotic threats

Research into renal warm ischemia in rats demonstrated activation of the transglutaminase pathway in tubulointerstitial fibrosis, offering parallels to feline chronic kidney disease and identifying TG2 inhibition as a promising therapeutic avenue. Additionally, a review on arginine vasopressin and copeptin advocates for the validation of copeptin-based assays in veterinary medicine, which could revolutionize the diagnosis of polyuria-polydipsia syndromes.Rapid and accurate diagnostics are essential for disease control. This collection features cutting-edge molecular tools, such as singleplex and duplex PCR assays for hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae, which promise faster detection of high-risk pathogens. Another example is from Liu et al., which developed an indirect ELISA for bovine coronavirus using [OFFICIAL] recombinant N protein, this assay demonstrated 94.8% concordance with commercial kits, offering a cost-effective and specific diagnostic option.Advances in molecular technologies, such as the CRISPR-based assays and digital droplet PCR designed by Kardoudi et al. for the diagnosis of fowl adenoviruses exemplify the shift toward high-sensitivity, field-ready diagnostics. Non-invasive approaches also emerge in Siddique et al. studies, with bioelectrical impedance analysis combined with machine learning demonstrating potential for classifying goats affected by haemonchosis, and in AI-enhanced hematocrit analysis offering rapid anemia detection in small ruminants.Improving animal welfare through preventive and therapeutic measures is another focal point. A study from Galosi et al. on bacterial bedding conditioners in broiler chickens shows promising results in reducing footpad dermatitis, a major welfare concern. In companion animals, case reports such as necrotizing E. coli pneumonia in dogs and cardiac lymphoma in cats provide valuable clinical insights into complex disease management, emphasizing the need for integrated medical and surgical approaches. Ford at al., found that detection of peripheral blood smear bacteremia in clinically ill small animals is associated with a high in-hospital mortality in this study and supports the importance of timely diagnostics and consideration of early intervention.The growing concern over zoonoses is addressed through comprehensive surveys, such as the investigation performed by Mazzotta et al., on emerging and neglected pathogens in dog and cat shelters in North-East Italy, which highlights the need for continuous monitoring and updated risk mitigation strategies. Similarly, the characterization of tuberculosis granulomas in alpacas not only advances our understanding of disease pathology in camelids but also underscores their potential role in zoonotic transmission.Collectively, these contributions illustrate the dynamic nature of veterinary pathology and its critical role in safeguarding animals and public health. Moving forward, interdisciplinary collaboration will be essential to integrate molecular diagnostics, AI-driven tools, and advanced imaging into routine practice. Addressing antimicrobial resistance, emerging pathogens, and complex disease syndromes will require sustained research efforts and global cooperation.By presenting these innovative studies, this research topic aims to inspire further exploration and guide future strategies in veterinary pathology and ultimately enhance diagnostic accuracy, therapeutic efficacy, and zoonotic risk management.References: