Effects of Nano-Copper Poisoning on Immune and Antioxidant Function in the Wumeng Semi-Fine Wool Sheep

Study on Soil Selenium-Induced Copper Deficiency in Yudong Black Goats

Due to the degradation of pasture and strict restrictions on grazing ranges in recent years, copper (Cu) deficiency in Yudong black goats has been occurring, mainly manifested as emaciation, anemia, loss of appetite and lack of spirit. To explore the main causes of Cu deficiency in Yudong black goats, 40 black goats (1 year old, 25.11 ± 0.52 kg) were selected for this experiment; among them, 20 Yudong black goats with Cu deficiency from the experimental pasture were used as the experimental group, and 20 healthy Yudong black goats from the control pasture were used as the control group. In the pre-experiment, the mineral contents of the soil, forage, blood, and liver of black goats in both groups were determined, and in formal experiments, blood hematological, biochemical, antioxidant, and hemorheological parameters were analyzed. An experiment on the treatment of Cu deficiency in black goats was also conducted. This study showed that selenium (Se) levels in the soil, forage, blood, and liver from the experimental group were significantly lower than those from the control group (p < 0.01). The content of sulfur (S) in the forage was considerably higher than that of the control group (p < 0.01). The contents of Cu in the blood and liver from the experimental group were significantly lower than that from the control group (p < 0.01), and the content of S was considerably higher than that from the control group (p < 0.01). The blood hematology of the experimental group was affected, as evidenced by a decrease in hemoglobin, hematocrit value, mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin. The immunity and antioxidant capacity of black goats in the experiment group were impaired to varying degrees, with significant decreases in ceruloplasmin, immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulin G, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, and substantial increases in malondialdehyde. In addition, the experimental group showed a decrease in blood viscosity as evidenced by the rise in high shear viscosity, low shear viscosity, erythrocyte rigidity index, erythrocyte aggregation index, and erythrocyte deformation index, and a decrease in plasma viscosity. In the treatment experiment, oral administration of copper sulfate solution was carried out on 10 black goats with Cu deficiency. All the Cu deficiency goats were cured, and the Cu content in their bodies rebounded. In summary, low Se soil caused an increase in S content in the forage, and Yudong black goats feeding on high S forage resulted in a decrease in Cu absorption, which led to a secondary Cu deficiency.

Astragalus additive in feed improved serum immune function, rumen fermentation and the microbiota structure of early-weaned lambs

AIM

The purpose of this study was to determine the mechanism of Astragalus activity on the immune function, rumen microbiota structure, and rumen fermentation of early-weaned lambs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Thirty healthy early-weaned lambs with similar body weights (17.42 ± 2.02 kg) were selected for the feeding experiment. The control group (KB) was fed a basal diet, and the Astragalus group (HQ) was fed 0.3% Astragalus additive on the basis of a basic diet. The formal trial period was 60 days. The results showed that the concentrations of blood immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) in the HQ group were significantly higher than those in the KB group (P < 0.05). Compared with the KB group, the concentrations of acetic acid, butyric acid, and total volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in the HQ group were higher (P < 0.01). The expression levels of the rumen epithelial-related genes MCT1, MCT4, NHE2, and ZO1 in the Astragalus group were significantly higher than those in the KB group (P < 0.05). 16S rRNA analysis showed that at the phylum level, Bacteroidetes in the HQ group significantly increased (P < 0.01); at the genus level, Prevotella (P < 0.01) and Succiniclasticum (P < 0.01) in the HQ group were found at significantly higher abundances than those in the KB group, and the results of microbiota gene and function prediction showed that "energy metabolism," "glycan biosynthesis and metabolic" pathways were significantly enriched in the HQ group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

As a feed additive, Astragalus can improve the immunity of early-weaned lambs, the structure of the rumen microbiota of lambs, and the fermentation capacity of the rumen.

Nano Copper Supplementation Increases Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase Gene Expression Profiles and Concentration of Antioxidants and Immune Variables in Sahiwal Heifers

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of inorganic and nano copper (nanoCu) supplementation on superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) gene expression, antioxidant status, and immune response in growing Sahiwal heifers. Twenty-four Sahiwal heifers were allocated at random into four groups of six heifers in each groups and fed for 120 days. Feeding regimen was similar in all the groups except that treatment groups were supplemented with 0.0 mg Cu, 10.0 mg inorganic copper (inCu), and 5.0 and 10.0 mg of nanoCu per kg dry matter (DM) in four respective groups. Feed intake and growth performance were similar in growing Sahiwal heifers fed on basal diet with or without supplemental Cu. Antioxidative variables like SOD, CAT, ceruloplasmin (Cp), total antioxidant status (TAS), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were found higher in Cu-supplemented groups than control. Variables like malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were found lower in treatment groups than control. Total immunoglobulins (total Ig) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) were higher in treatment groups than control, although interleukin-6 (IL-6) was similar in all groups. There were upregulation of mRNA expression of SOD and CAT genes in experimental animals fed on Cu-supplemented diet while mRNA expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) genes was not altered by dietary treatment. The results suggest that the level of 5-ppm nanoCu can be selected for feeding in growing cattle as it exerts similar effects as showed by 10-ppm inorganic Cu.

Effects of Nano-Cu2O on the Productivity in the Cu-Stripped Chinese Merino Sheep

This research is to study the effects of nano-Cu₂O on blood parameters, growth performance, and wool yield in the Cu-stripped ranches, and provide reference for further study on prevention and treatment in Cu-deficient Chinese Merino sheep. We selected twenty Chinese Merino sheep from Cu-deficient and normal ranch, respectively. The results have shown that the Cu content in the soils, forages, blood, and wool from Cu-deficient ranches was significantly lower than those from normal ranches (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in the contents of other elements. Treatment experiments of nano-Cu₂O were carried out for 50 days. We found that the Cu content in the blood was increased continuously in the sheep after adding nano-Cu₂O, and reached the highest level at 40 days. The levels of Hb, RBC, PCV, MCV, and MCH in the nano-Cu₂O-fed animals were remarkably higher than those in the control animals (P < 0.01). The daily gain and wool yield in the nano-Cu₂O-fed animals were also significantly higher than those in the control sheep (P < 0.01). Therefore, adding nano-Cu₂O not only remarkably increases the Cu content in the blood, but also greatly improves the daily gain and wool yield in Cu-deficient animals.

Dietary supplementation with nano-composite of copper and carbon on growth performance, immunity, and antioxidant ability of yellow-feathered broilers

New feed additives as antibiotics substitutes are in urgent need in poultry production. Nano-composite of copper and carbon (NCCC), a novel copper donor with stronger antibacterial properties, is expected to promote broiler growth and diminish the negative effects of excess copper (Cu). Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of NCCC on growth performance, immunity, and antioxidant ability of yellow-feathered broilers. A total of 240 1-d-old male yellow-feathered broilers were selected and randomly divided into four groups, with five replications per group and 12 birds per replication. The CON group was fed corn-soybean basal diets, while the N50, N100, and N200 groups were supplemented with 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg of NCCC in basal diets, respectively. The trial lasted for 63 d. The results demonstrated that only 200 mg/kg NCCC addition significantly increased the Cu content in serum and feces, and liver Cu content linearly increased with NCCC dosage increment (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, NCCC supplementation did not alter the growth performance, slaughter performance, immune organ indexes, and liver antioxidant ability of broilers (P > 0.05), but optimized the serum cytokine pattern by elevating the level of serum IL-10 (P < 0.05), and there were linear and quadratic increases in serum IL-4 with NCCC dosage increment (P < 0.05). On the whole, in spite of no impact on growth performance, 50 mg/kg NCCC was optimal to supplement in chicken diets due to the rise of serum IL-10 level and no extra environmental pollution and tissue residues.

Effects of Sodium Monensin on Copper Metabolism of Brazilian Santa Inês Sheep Submitted to Different Dietary Copper

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of sodium monensin on the hepatic accumulation of copper in sheep. Twenty-four Santa Inês crossbred sheep were used and allocated in a 2 × 2 factorial experiment with six repetitions and considering the factors dietary copper (basal and high) and supplementation (with and without sodium monensin). Thus, four homogeneous groups were formed: control (basal diet); monensin (Mon), 30 ppm of monensin; copper (Cu), 10 10 mg/kg BW per day of copper; monensin + copper (MonCu). The experimental period lasted 14 weeks. Liver and bile samples were collected at the beginning and end of the experiment to determine mineral element concentrations, and weekly blood samples for biochemical, hematological, and mineral evaluation. Liver copper concentrations at the beginning of the experiment did not vary between groups, while mean liver copper concentrations at the end of the experiment were higher in the MonCu, Cu, and Mon groups when compared to the control. At the end of the study, hepatic copper concentration was influenced by copper (p = 0.0001) and monensin (p = 0.0003) supplementation. Copper-supplemented groups had reduced liver iron contents (p = 0.0287) and increased copper concentrations in bile. The biochemical evaluation showed increased serum GGT and AST activity (p < 0.05) in the Cu and MonCu groups from the eleventh week on compared to the control and Mon groups. The increase in activity of these enzymes was influenced by copper supplementation (p = 0.0340). Monensin interferes positively with the hepatic accumulation of copper and the supplementation of this additive may predispose sheep to copper poisoning.

Effect of Foliage Dressing in Nano-Potassium Molybdate on Daily Gain and Antioxidant Function in Grazing the Chinese Merino Sheep

The study was implemented for exploring influences of nano-K₂MoO₄ on the daily gain and antioxidant function of Chinese merino sheep in the native pasture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Northwest of China. Eighty of the sheep, weight of (45.56 ± 2.35) kg, were randomly distributed to the tested areas for 90 days, 20 sheep/group. The findings showed that the contents of Mo and N in the forage of applying nano-K₂MoO₄ were extremely higher than those in the control pastures (P <0.01). The daily gain in the fertilized groups were remarkably lower than that in the control group (P <0.01). The harvest of forage in the fertilized pastures were significantly higher than those in control (P <0.01). The contents of Mo in blood and liver in grazing the Chinese merino sheep were extremely higher than those from the control group (P <0.01). The contents of Cu in blood and liver in grazing the Chinese merino sheep were extremely lower than those in the unfertilized pastures (P <0.01). The levels of hemoglobin (Hb), blood platelet (PLT), and erythrocyte count (RBC) in animals from the fertilized pastures were extremely lower than those in the control pastures (P < 0.01). The activities of SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT in serum were significantly lower than those in group C. The serum MDA levels were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the application of nano-K₂MoO₄ in pastures can greatly improve the yield of forage, but strikingly decreased the daily gain and antioxidant function in grazing the Chinese merino sheep.

Effects of Molybdenosis on Antioxidant Capacity in Endangered Przewalski's Gazelles in the Qinghai Lake National Nature Reserve in the Northwestern China

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of molybdenosis on antioxidant capacity in endangered Przewalski's gazelles (Procapra przewalskii) in the animal rescue center in the Qinghai Lake National Nature Reserve in Northwestern China. Ten P. przewalskii in molybdenosis were selected and treated orally with copper sulfate (CuSO₄) at a dose of 20 g/animal/5 days for 20 days. Ten healthy P. przewalskii were also selected and allocated to healthy pastures for 20 days. Samples of soil, forage, and animal tissue were collected. The values of mineral and hematological parameters were measured. Results showed levels of molybdenum (Mo) in soil and forage were significantly higher than those in healthy ranches (P < 0.01). The Mo content of blood and hair in gazelles from the rescue center was also significantly higher than those in the healthy ranches animals (P < 0.01). The copper (Cu) contents in blood and hair from the rescue center were significantly lower than those from the healthy pasture (P < 0.01). Hemoglobin (Hb) and red cell volume (PCV) in the gazelles from the animal rescue center were significantly lower than those from animals in healthy ranches (P < 0.01). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), phosphocreatine kinase (CPK), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly higher than those from gazelles in healthy ranches (P < 0.01). The antioxidant capacity in gazelles from the animal rescue center was significantly lower than that of gazelles in healthy ranches. Supplementing CuSO₄ significantly decreased the Mo content of blood and cured molybdenosis in gazelles. In summary, the Mo content of soil and forage was very excessive for gazelles in the animal rescue center. The antioxidant capacity of P. przewalskii has been seriously affected by molybdenosis.

Assessment of the risks of copper- and zinc oxide-based nanoparticles used in Vigna radiata L. culture on food quality, human nutrition and health

The present article aims to assess the phytotoxic effects of copper and zinc oxide nanoparticles (Cu NPs, ZnO NPs) on mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) and their possible risk on food quality and safety. We also study the molecular mechanisms underlying the toxicity of nanosized Cu and ZnO. Seeds of mung bean were germinated under increasing concentrations of Cu NPs and ZnO NPs (10, 100, 1000, 2000 mg/L). We analyzed levels of free amino acids, total soluble sugars, minerals, polyphenols and antioxidant capacity. Our results showed that depending on the concentrations used of Cu NPs and ZnO NPs, the physiology of seed germination and embryo growth were modified. Both free metal ions and nanoparticles themselves may impact plant cellular and physiological processes. At 10 mg/L, an improvement of the nutritive properties, in terms of content in free amino acids, total soluble sugars, essential minerals, antioxidant polyphenols and flavonoids, was shown. However, higher concentrations (100-2000 mg/L) caused an alteration in the nutritional balance, which was revealed by the decrease in contents and quality of phenolic compounds, macronutrients (Na, Mg, Ca) and micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, K). The overall effects of Cu and ZnO nanoparticles seem to interfere with the bioavailability of mineral and organic nutrients and alter the beneficial properties of the antioxidant phytochemicals, mineral compounds, phenolic acids and flavonoids. This may result in a potential hazard to human food and health, at some critical doses of nanofertilizers. This study may contribute in the guidelines to the safe use of nanofertilizers or nanosafety, for more health benefit and less potential risks.

Effects of the Seleno-Chitosan on Daily Gain, Wool Yield, and Blood Parameter in the Chinese Merino Sheep

To study the effects of the seleno-chitosan on daily gain, wool yield, and blood parameters in the Chinese merino sheep in the selenium (Se)-deficient pastures. The samples of soils, forages, and tissues had been collected in the Southern Xinjiang of Northwest China. Our findings indicated that the Se contents in soils and forages from affected pastures were remarkably lower than those unaffected by the pastures (P < 0.01). The Se contents in the blood and the wool from affected Chinese merino sheep were extremely lower than those from healthy sheep. Meanwhile, the values of Hb, PCV, and PLT in affected sheep were significantly decreased (P < 0.01). The yield of wool and the growth rate in affected sheep were also remarkably reduced (P < 0.01). The affected Chinese merino sheep were orally treated by seleno-chitosan for 150 days; the Se contents in blood were remarkably increased and reached the healthy range on day 5. The blood parameters soon recovered to a healthy range on day 10. The growth rate of sheep in the treated group was remarkably higher than that in the control animals. The yield of the wool was also significantly increased in the treated group. Consequently, the Se-deprived environment caused a threat to daily gain, wool yield, and blood parameters in the Chinese merino sheep. The seleno-chitosan could not only markedly increase the Se contents blood contents, but also significantly increase the production performance (daily gain and wool yield), and release the symptoms of anemia in the Se-deprived animal.

Effect of Nano-potassium Molybdate on the Copper Metabolism in Grazing the Pishan Red Sheep

The aims of this study were to investigate the impact of different levels of nano-potassium molybdate (nano-K₂MoO₄) fertilization on the copper (Cu) metabolism in grazing the Pishan red sheep in the natural pasture. The fertilization and grazing experiments were conducted on the Pishan farm in Southern Xinjiang, China. The natural pastures of 16 hm² were randomly divided into four groups (4 hm²/group), consisting of group C (no fertilized), group I, group II, and group III. The fertilizing amount of Mo from nano-K₂MoO₄ was 0, 7, 8, and 9 kg/hm² for group C, group I, group II, and group III, respectively. The 40 Pishan red sheep were randomly distributed to the tested pastures for 90 days, and the 10 sheep/group. The results showed that the contents of Mo and N in forage from the fertilized pastures were extremely increased (P < 0.01). The yield and dry matter digestibility of forage in fertilized pastures were significantly higher than those in no fertilized pasture (P < 0.01). The values of crude protein (CP) and crude fat (EE) in forage from fertilized pastures were significantly increased (P < 0.01). The Mo contents in the blood and liver in the Pishan red sheep from fertilized pastures were greatly increased (P < 0.01). The Cu contents in the blood and liver in the Pishan red sheep from the fertilized pastures were greatly decreased (P < 0.01). The activities of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in group I, group II, and group III were extremely lower than those in group C (P < 0.01), and the contents of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) in group I, group II, and group III were greatly higher than those from group C (P < 0.01). In summary, the application of nano-K₂MoO₄ improved the nutritive values and the yield of forage, but overuse will remarkably reduce the Cu contents of blood and greatly interfere with the Cu metabolism, leading to the Cu deficiency and low antioxidant capacity in grazing the ruminants.

Effects of Se-Enriched Malt on the Immune and Antioxidant Function in the Se-Deprived Reclamation Merino Sheep in Southern Xinjiang

We have found that the Reclamation merino sheep in Southern Xinjiang, China, showed emaciation, stiff limbs, instability, and sudden death, which is related to the impairment of immune function and antioxidant capacity caused by selenium (Se) deficiency. The experiments were to study the effects of Se-enriched malt on the immune and antioxidant function in Se-deprived Reclamation merino sheep in Southern Xinjiang, China. The samples of soil and forage had been collected from tested pastures, and animal tissues were also collected in tested animals. The mineral content of soil, forage, and animal tissues was measured in the collected samples. Hematological indexes and biochemical values were also examined. The findings showed that the Se contents were extremely lower in affected soil and forage than those from healthy soil and forage (P < 0.01). The Se contents in affected blood and wool were also extremely lower than those from healthy blood and wool (P < 0.01). The values in glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity in affected serum samples were also extremely lower than those from healthy serum samples, and levels of malondialdehyde, total nitric oxide synthase, and lipid peroxide were extremely higher in affected serum samples than those from healthy serum samples (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, the values of hemoglobin, packed cell volume, and platelet count from affected blood were extremely lower than those from healthy blood (P < 0.01). The levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, immunoglobulin A, and immunoglobulin G in serum were extremely decreased in the affected Reclamation merino sheep (P < 0.01). The levels of IL-6 and immunoglobulin M in serum were extremely reduced in the affected Reclamation merino sheep compared to healthy animals (P < 0.01). The animals in affected pastures were orally treated with Se-enriched malt, and the Se contents in blood were extremely increased (P < 0.01). The immune function and antioxidant indicator returned to within the healthy range. Consequently, our findings were indicated that the disorder of the Reclamation merino sheep was mainly caused by the Se deficiency in soil and forage. The Se-enriched malt could not only markedly increase the Se content in blood but also much improve the immune function and the antioxidant capacity in the Se-deprived Reclamation merino sheep.

Effects of Nano-copper Oxide on Antioxidant Function of Copper-Deficient Kazakh Sheep

Kazakh sheep are vital to the production system of the Barkol prairie. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of nano-copper oxide (Nano-Cu₂O) on the antioxidant system of Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep in the Barkol prairie in Xinjiang, China. We analyzed mineral contents in soil, forage, and animal tissues. Blood parameters were also measured at the same time. The results showed that compared with healthy grassland, the Cu content in the soil and forage in Cu-deficient pastures was significantly lower than that in healthy grassland (P < 0.01). The Cu content in the blood, wool, and liver of Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep was significantly lower than that of healthy animals (P < 0.01). After Kazakh sheep were supplemented with Nano-Cu₂O or CuSO₄, the blood Cu concentration increased significantly (P < 0.01). From the 5th day, the Cu content of the Nano-Cu₂O group was significantly higher than that of the CuSO₄ group. The levels of hemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte count (RBC), and packed cell volume (PCV) in the two experimental groups were significantly higher than those in Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep (P < 0.01). Compared with Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep, the serum ceruloplasmin (Cp) level of the two experimental groups increased significantly (P < 0.01), while the serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) decreased significantly (P < 0.01). Compared with Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep, the activities of serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in Nano-Cu₂O and CuSO₄ groups increased significantly (P < 0.01), while the level of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased significantly (P < 0.01). Therefore, Nano-Cu₂O could not only significantly increase the Cu content in the blood of Cu-deficient Kazakh sheep, but also greatly improve the antioxidant capacity.

Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity of Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat on Copper-Contaminated Pasture

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element, but excessive Cu intake can induce poor performance and Cu poisoning and result in various health problems. Cu and molybdenum (Mo) antagonize each other in vivo. Therefore, Mo can reduce the absorption and utilization of Cu. The aims of this study were to investigate the impacts of Mo fertilization on antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat on Cu-polluted meadow and explore the control methods of Cu pollution in natural pasture. Fertilization and grazing experiments were carried out in Liangshan Yi Nationality Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, Sichuan Province, Southwest China. Cu-polluted meadows of 12 hm² were fenced, and randomly divided into two groups (3 replications/group, 2 hm²/replication), control group and treatment group, fed with basic diets supplemented with 0 and 3 kg Mo/hm² [ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate, (NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄·4H₂O], respectively. In the current study, 36 healthy Nanjiang brown goats (1 year old, 32.8 ± 1.1 kg) were randomly divided into two groups (3 replications/group, 6 goats/replication) and assigned to the experimental pastures. The grazing experiment lasted for 60 days. The results showed that the concentration of Mo in soil in treatment group was 96.28 mg/kg, far exceeding the normal levels. At days 30 and 60, the levels of Hb, RBC, and PCV in blood in treatment group and the activities of serum SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, CAT, and Cp were higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). The MDA content in treatment group was lower than that in control group (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu in blood and liver in treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of Zn and Mo in blood and liver in treatment goats were higher than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The Mn content in liver in treatment group was higher than that in control animals (P < 0.01). These results indicated that fertilization of (NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄ not only markedly influenced the mineral contents in blood and liver, but also extremely improved antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat from fertilized pastures and relieved the damage caused by Cu pollution.

Studies on Antioxidant Capacity in Selenium-Deprived the Choko Yak in the Shouqu Prairie

The fencing device on pasture has seriously restricted the foraging range in grazing animals. As a result, the incidence of selenium (Se) deficiency is rising in grazing Choko yaks in the Shouqu prairie in Northwest China. To study the effect of Se deprivation on antioxidant capacity in the Choko yaks, the mineral contents in soil, forage, blood, and liver have been analyzed. The parameters of physiology and biochemistry in animal were also measured. The tested results showed that Se contents in soil and forage from tested pastures were very greatly lower than those in the control ranges (P < 0.01), and there were no extreme differences in other elements. Se contents in blood and the liver in tested animals were very extremely lower than those in the control yaks (P < 0.01). Levels of hemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte (RBC), and hematocrit (HCT) were very extremely less than those in the control group (P < 0.01). Activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in blood from the tested yaks were very much lower than those in the control animals (P < 0.01). Contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) in tested yaks were extremely higher than those in the control animals (P < 0.01). Therefore, it is suggested that Se-deficient forage in natural habitat not only influenced mineral contents in the blood and the liver but also causes serious harm to antioxidant function in the Choko yaks.

Effects of Nano-Selenium on Antioxidant Capacity in Se-Deprived Tibetan Gazelle (Procapra picticaudata) in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

Tibetan gazelle (Procapra picticaudata) is an endangered ungulate in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China. This study aimed to determine the influence of nano-Se on antioxidant system in Se-deprived P. picticaudata. We analyzed contents of mineral elements in soil, forage, and animal tissue. Blood parameters and antioxidant indexes were also determined. The results showed that Se concentrations in the soil and forage from affected pasture were significantly lower than those in healthy area (P < 0.01). Se concentrations in blood and hair from affected P. picticaudata were also significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, the levels of Hb, RBC, and PCV in affected gazelle were significantly lower than those in healthy animal (P < 0.01). The activities of AST, ALT, LDH, CK, and UA content in affected animal were significantly lower than those in healthy gazelles (P < 0.01). The levels of SOD, GSH-Px, CAT, and T-AOC in serum were significantly lower and the MDA content was significantly higher in affected compared with healthy gazelle (P < 0.01). Affected P. picticaudata were treated orally with nano-Se, Se concentration in blood significantly increased and serum antioxidant indexes greatly returned to within the healthy range. Consequently, nano-Se could not only markedly increase the Se content in blood in Se-deprived P. picticaudata but also much improves the antioxidant capacity.

Effects of Nano-Zinc on Immune Function in Qianbei-Pockmarked Goats

Qianbei-pockmarked goats are vital to the production system of western China. This study aimed to determine the influence of nano-zinc on immune function in zinc-deprived goats. We analyzed the mineral concentrations in soil, forage, and animal tissue. Blood parameters and immune indexes were also determined. Results showed that the zinc concentrations in soil and forage from affected area were significantly lower than those in control area (P < 0.01). Zinc contents in tissues (blood and hair) from affected Qianbei-pockmarked goats were also significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Levels of hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume from affected animals were markedly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Levels of lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxide, catalase, and total antioxidant capacity in serum in affected animals were significantly lower, and aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, malondialdehyde in serum were significantly higher than those in healthy goats (P < 0.01). The contents of immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulin G, interleukin-2, interleukin 6, and interleukin-1β from affected animals were significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). The affected Qianbei-pockmarked goats were treated orally with nano-zinc, the concentration of zinc in blood significantly increased, and serum immune indexes greatly returned to that within the healthy range. It was concluded that nano-zinc could not only markedly increase the zinc content in blood of zinc-deprived goats but also much improve the immune function.

Responses of Przewalski's Gazelle (Procapra przewalskii) to Zinc Nutrition in Physical Habitat

To study responses of Procapra przewalskii to zinc (Zn) nutrition in physical habitat, we analyzed the content of mineral elements in soil, forage, and animal tissues. Physiological and biochemical indexes were also determined. The results showed that Zn contents in the soil and forage from affected pasture were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in unaffected areas. Zn concentrations in the blood, liver, and hair from affected P. przewalskii were also significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in healthy animals. The levels of hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume from affected P. przewalskii were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in healthy animals. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase activities were significantly lower (P < 0.01) in affected P. przewalskii than in healthy animals, while serum lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in affected compared with healthy animals. The activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase in serum were significantly lower and the malondialdehyde content was significantly higher (all P < 0.01) in affected compared with healthy animals. Affected P. przewalskii were treated orally with ZnSO₄. The Zn content in the blood increased gradually and serum antioxidant indexes gradually returned to within the healthy range. Zn deprivation in forage thus not only influenced the blood mineral content but also severely disrupted blood parameters and antioxidant function in P. przewalskii.