How can we help tasmanian devils

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Please enable Javascript and refresh this page. The researchers found that the DFTD cells have lost the expression of MHC molecules, but that the genes that code for these molecules are still intact. Dr Menna Jones, from UTAS' School of Zoology, said that "we now need to link these findings with cases of regressed tumours that we see in wild devils to understand the potential for the evolution of tolerance to the disease". While these results are important for understanding how to combat the disease at a biological level, the challenge is to ensure the species' survival in the wild, said the Director of the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Dr Howel Williams.

The first signs of DFTD were observed in Since then, sightings of devils across the State have declined by around 85 per cent. Creation of a vaccine will ensure a disease-free future for the Tasmanian devil living where it belongs, in the wild. However, over the past 10 years of collaborative research and conservation programs, progress has been extraordinary. An Insurance Population has been established, the impact of the disease in the wild is monitored regularly, and disease-free facilities to hold the species in wild and semi-wild populations have been built.

Investigation into the nature of DFTD and determining paths to halt the spread of the disease has progressed significantly. Researchers are now in the position to develop a vaccine, rekindling hopes of saving this iconic species in the wild.