Chromosome fragility in cattle with chronic enzootic haematuria

Identification of Genomic Instability in Cows Infected with BVD Virus

An important factor for dairy cattle farmers is the profitability of cattle rearing, which is influenced by the animals' health and reproductive parameters, as well as their genomic stability and integrity. Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) negatively affects the health of dairy cattle and causes reproductive problems. The aim of the study was to identify genomic instability in cows with reproductive disorders following infection with the BVD virus. The material for analysis was peripheral blood from Holstein-Friesian cows with reproductive problems, which had tested positive for BVD, and from healthy cows with no reproductive problems, which had tested negative for BVD. Three cytogenetic tests were used: the sister chromatid exchange assay, fragile sites assay, and comet assay. Statistically significant differences were noted between the groups and between the individual cows in the average frequency of damage. The assays were good biomarkers of genomic stability and enabled the identification of individuals with an increased frequency of damage to genetic material that posed a negative impact on their health. The assays can be used to prevent disease during its course and evaluate the genetic resistance of animals. This is especially important for the breeder, both for economic and breeding reasons. Of the three assays, the comet assay proved to be the most sensitive for identifying DNA damage in the animals.

Assessment of the genomic stability of calves obtained from artificial insemination and OPU/IVP in vitro fertilization

Damage to genetic material and errors in the functioning of cellular mechanisms disturb genome stability and integrity. Assessment of genomic stability in animals is a very important aspect of breeding work. Unfortunately, harmful instabilities affect the functioning, health and reproductive processes of animals. Obtaining healthy calves is a priority, whatever methods of reproductive biotechnology are applied. The aim of the study was to assess the genomic stability of calves obtained from artificial insemination and OPU/IVP in vitro fertilization. The genomic stability of the calves was evaluated using the comet, sister chromatid exchange, and fragile sites assays. Damage to the genetic material of calves obtained by two reproductive biotechnologies was identified. Identification of instability in animals can be a valuable tool in breeding work and accelerate breeding progress.

Effect of Selected Micro- and Macroelements and Vitamins on the Genome Stability of Bovine Embryo Transfer Recipients following In Vitro Fertilization

Genome instability can lead to a wide variety of diseases. Many endogenous and exogenous factors influence the level of damage to genetic material. Genome integrity depends on factors such as the fidelity of DNA replication, normal DNA organization in the chromosomes, and repair mechanisms. Genome stability influences fertility, embryonic development, and the maintenance of pregnancy. In the case of in vitro fertilization, it can be an important factor determining the success of the procedure. The aim of the study was to assess the stability of the genomes of recipient cows following in vitro fertilization using cytogenetic tests and to analyze the effects of selected vitamins and micro- and macroelements on genome integrity. Genome stability was analyzed using the sister chromatid exchange, fragile site, and comet assays. The material for analysis was peripheral blood from 20 Holstein-Friesian heifers that were embryo transfer recipients. The effect of selected micro- and macroelements and vitamins on the genome stability of the cows was analyzed. Folic acid was shown to significantly influence the level of damage identified using the SCE, FS, and SCGE assays, while iron affected SCE and SCGE results, and zinc affected FS.

Chromosome Instability in Pony of Esperia Breed Naturally Infected by Intestinal Strongylidae

The Pony of Esperia is an Italian autochthonous horse breed reared in the wild on the Aurunci and Ausoni Mountains. Currently, it is considered an endangered breed, as its population consists of 1623 animals. It is therefore essential to identify all aspects that can improve the management and economy of its breeding, favoring its diffusion. In this paper, the effects of intestinal strongyle infection on the chromosome stability of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) was evaluated through aneuploidy and chromosome aberration (gap, chromatid and chromosome breaks, and the number of abnormal cells) test. Statistical difference in the mean values of aneuploidy, cells with chromosome abnormalities, and chromosome and chromatid breaks were observed between ponies with high fecal egg counts (eggs per gram > 930) and those with undetectable intestinal strongylosis. The causes of this phenomenon and possible repercussions on the management of Pony of Esperia are discussed in the paper.

Assessment of genome stability in various breeds of cattle

Chromosomal instability is a type of genome instability involving changes in genetic information at the chromosomal level. The basic tests used to identify this form of instability are sister chromatid exchange (SCE) tests and identification of fragile sites (FS). SCE is the process by which sister chromatids become fragmented as a result of DNA strand breakage and reassembly, followed by exchange of these fragments. FS can be observed in the form of breaks, gaps or constrictions on chromosomes, which often result from multiple nucleotide repeats in DNA that are difficult to replicate. The research material was the peripheral blood of ten breeds of cattle raised in Poland, including four native breeds covered by a genetic resources conservation programme, i.e. Polish Red, Polish Red-and-White, White-Backed, and Polish Black-and-White, as well as Polish Holstein-Friesian, Simmental, Montbéliarde, Jersey, Limousine and Danish Red. Two tests were performed on chromosomes obtained from in vitro cultures: SCE and FS. The average frequency of SCE was 5.08 ± 1.31, while the incidence of FS was 3.45 ± 0.94. Differences in the incidence of SCE and FS were observed between breeds. The least damage was observed in the Polish Red and White-Backed breeds, and the most in Polish Holstein-Friesians. The most damage was observed in the interstitial part of the chromosomes. Age was shown to significantly affect the incidence of SCE and FS. Younger cows showed less damage than older ones (SCE: 4.84 ± 1.25; 5.34 ± 1.24; FS: 3.10 ± 0.88, 3.80 ± 0.92).

The role of bracken fern illudanes in bracken fern-induced toxicities

Bracken fern is carcinogenic when fed to domestic and laboratory animals inducing bladder and ileal tumours and is currently classified as a possible human carcinogen by IARC. The carcinogenic illudane, ptaquiloside (PTQ) was isolated from bracken fern and is widely assumed to be the major bracken carcinogen. However, several other structurally similar illudanes are found in bracken fern, in some cases at higher levels than PTQ and so may contribute to the overall toxicity and carcinogenicity of bracken fern. In this review, we critically evaluate the role of illudanes in bracken fern induced toxicity and carcinogenicity, the mechanistic basis of these effects including the role of DNA damage, and the potential for human exposure in order to highlight deficiencies in the current literature. Critical gaps remain in our understanding of bracken fern induced carcinogenesis, a better understanding of these processes is essential to establish whether bracken fern is also a human carcinogen.

Analysis of chromatin instability of somatic cells in sheep

Cytogenetic tests are highly reliable, sensitive indicators of the early effects of genomic instability. Their results provide information on the organism’s susceptibility to exogenous and endogenous factors and are measures of the degree of repair of DNA damage. Our study assessed spontaneously occurring damage in following four breeds of sheep: Polish Heath, Polish Lowland (Zelazna variety), Polish Blackhead, and Berrichon du Cher. Instability was identified using the following three different tests: a sister chromatid exchange (SCE) assay, identification of fragile sites, and the comet assay. The distribution of instabilities varied depending on the breed. The mean frequency of SCEs was 5.13 ± 1.58, whereas that of fragile sites was 3.30 ± 1.24. The mean level of DNA damage (% head DNA) was 96.52 ± 6.59. The most damage to genetic material was observed in the Berrichon du Cher sheep, and the least in the Polish Heath sheep. The tests used are reliable biomarkers of genome stability in animal breeds, as well as in individuals within breeds.

Assessment of adaptability of zebu cattle (Bos indicus) breeds in two different climatic conditions: using cytogenetic techniques on genome integrity

The aim of this study was to evaluate the genome integrity so as to assess the adaptability of three breeds of indigenous cattle reared under arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan (Bikaner) and Haryana (Karnal) India. The cattle were of homogenous group (same age and sex) of indigenous breeds viz. Sahiwal, Tharparkar and Kankrej. A total of 100 animals were selected for this study from both climatic conditions. The sister chromatid exchanges (SCE's), chromosomal gaps and chromatid breaks were observed in metaphase plates of chromosome preparations obtained from in vitro culture of peripheral blood lymphocytes. The mean number of breaks and gaps in Sahiwal and Tharparkar of semi-arid zone were 8.56 ± 3.16, 6.4 ± 3.39 and 8.72 ± 2.04, 3.52 ± 6.29, respectively. Similarly, the mean number of breaks and gaps in Tharparkar and Kankrej cattle of arid zone were 5.26 ± 1.76, 2.74 ± 1.76 and 5.24 ± 1.84, 2.5 ± 1.26, respectively. The frequency of SCEs in chromosomes was found significantly higher (P < 0.05) in Tharparkar of semi-arid region (4.72 ± 1.55) compared to arid region (2.83 ± 1.01). Similarly, the frequency of SCEs was found to be 4.0 ± 1.41 in the Sahiwal of semi-arid region and 2.69 ± 1.12 in Kankrej of arid zone. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) amongst the different zones, i.e. arid and semi-arid, whereas no significant difference (P > 0.05) was observed in the same zone. The analysis of frequency of CAs and SCEs revealed significant effects of environmental conditions on the genome integrity of animals, thereby indicating an association with their adaptability.

Chromosome aberrations in cells infected with bovine papillomavirus: comparing cutaneous papilloma, esophagus papilloma, and urinary bladder lesion cells

The majority of malignant cells present genetic instability with chromosome number changes plus segmental defects: these changes involve intact chromosomes and breakage-induced alterations. Some pathways of chromosomal instability have been proposed as random breakage, telomere fusion, and centromere fission. Chromosome alterations in tumor cells have been described in animal models and in vitro experiments. One important question is about possible discrepancies between animal models, in vitro studies, and the real events in cancer cells in vivo. Papillomaviruses are relevant agents in oncogenic processes related to action on host genome. Recently, many reports have discussed the presence of virus DNA in peripheral blood, in humans and in animals infected by papillomaviruses. The meaning of this event is of controversy: possible product of apoptosis occurring in cancer cells, metastasized cancer cells, or active DNA sequences circulating in bloodstream. This study compares chromosome aberrations detected in bovine cells, in peripheral blood cells, and in BPV lesion cells: the literature is poor in this type of study. Comparing chromosome aberrations described in the different cells, a common mechanism in their origin, can be suggested. Furthermore blood cells can be evaluated as an effective way of virus transmission.

Bovine papillomavirus type 2 infection and a series of mesenchymal tumors of the urinary bladder in cattle

This report describes the histopathology of two hundred and fifty-three mesenchymal tumors of the urinary bladder in cattle grazing on lands rich in bracken fern. Approximately 80% were hemangiomas and angiosarcomas. Hemangioma (capillary, cavernous, and large vessels) was the most frequent mesenchymal tumor and was more common than angiosarcoma. Although the appearance of endothelial cells can vary remarkably, epithelioid angiosarcomas, often containing multinucleated cells, were the most frequent malignant vascular tumors. Hemangiopericytoma and tumors of muscle and soft connective tissue origin, alone and/or in association with tumor-like lesions, were less frequently seen. Furthermore, forty-five cases of intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH), a lesion not previously reported in the urinary bladder of cattle, were also described. Bovine papillomavirus type-2 DNA was amplified in tumor samples. Forty vascular tumors were investigated by dual-labeling immunofluorescence, and, for the first time, a coexpression of E5 and platelet-derived growth factor β receptor (PDGFβR) was shown to occur. The results show that the BPV-2 E5 oncoprotein binds to the activated form of the PDGFβ receptor thus playing an important role in mesenchymal as well as epithelial carcinogenesis of the urinary bladder. Furthermore, these findings demonstrate that BPV-2 infects both epithelial and mesenchymal cells.

The environmental and human effects of ptaquiloside-induced enzootic bovine hematuria: a tumorous disease of cattle

In this review, we address the major aspects of enzootic bovine hematuria and have placed special emphasis on describing the etiology, human health implications, and advanced molecular diagnosis of the disease.Enzootic bovine hematuria (EBH) is a bovine disease characterized by the intermittent presence of blood in the urine and is caused by malignant lesions in the urinary bladder. This incurable disease is a serious malady in several countries across many continents. Accurate early-stage diagnosis of the disease is possible by applying advanced molecular techniques, e.g., detection of genetic mutations in the urine of cows from endemic areas. Use of such diagnostic approaches may help create an effective therapy against the disease.There is a consensus that EBH is caused primarily by animals consuming bracken fern (P. aquilinum) as they graze. The putative carcinogen in bracken is ptaquiloside(PT), a glycoside. However, other bracken constituents like quercetin, isoquercetin,ptesculentoside, caudatoside, astragalin, and tannins may also be carcinogenic.Studies are needed to identify the role of other metabolites in inducing urinary bladder carcinogenesis.The bovine papilloma virus is also thought to be an associated etiology in causing EBH in cattle. There is growing alarm that these fern toxins and their metabolites reach and contaminate the soil and water environment and that the carcinogen (PT)is transmitted via cow's milk to the human food chain, where it may now pose a threat to human health. An increased incidence of gastric and esophageal cancer has been recorded in humans consuming bracken ferns, and among those living for long periods in areas infested with bracken ferns.Although preliminary therapeutic vaccine trials with inactivated BPV-2 against EBH have been performed, further work is needed to standardize and validate vaccine doses for animals.

Assessment of chromosome instability in geese (Anser anser)

Wójcik, E. and Smalec, E. 2012. Assessment of chromosome instability in geese ( Anser anser ). Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 49–57. The basic test applied in the research of chromosome instability is the test of sister chromatid exchange (SCE). It makes it possible to identify single-and double-strand DNA damage caused by genotoxic factors and those that disrupt DNA damage repair mechanisms. Fragile sites in chromosomes can be found in all organisms. They are chromosome sites showing susceptibility to breakages and discontinuities in specific conditions of cell culture and also following induction with chemical substances. Chromosome instability of Anser anser geese was assessed in the research, focussing on sister chromatid exchange and the identification of fragile sites. The mean SCE/cell was 4.75±1.00. Most SCEs were identified in the proximal part of the chromosomes. Fragile sites were also identified in the chromosomes during the research. Altogether, 138 breakages were observed in the chromosomes. Apart from identifying chromosome damage, the particular instances of damage were located in the chromosomes.

Cytogenetic studies in peripheral blood of bovines afflicted by papillomatosis

Ten types of bovine papillomavirus (BPV) have been described and there are reports of viral transmission via blood. The presence of viral DNA in lymphocytes was described to be associated with chromosome instability in these cells. This study presents an evaluation of chromosome instability in short-term peripheral lymphocyte cultures from cows presenting skin papillomatosis, compared with asymptomatic infected animals and non-infected healthy bovines. In a total of 2203 cells, 918 (42%) showed at least one chromosome aberration: 42.7 (± 7.8) in animals with papillomatosis (BPV + W), 40.2 (± 11) in asymptomatic animals (BPV-W) and 4 (± 2) in control animals. Significant differences were found between the infected group (with or without symptoms) and the control group (P < 0.0001). The increased frequencies of chromosome aberrations suggest an interaction between the virus and host cell chromatin.

A new, very sensitive method of assessment of ptaquiloside, the major bracken carcinogen in the milk of farm animals

We describe a new method to detect trace levels of ptaquiloside (Pta), a major carcinogen of bracken fern in biological samples such as milk from farm animals. The method involves the absorption of analyte on carbograph followed by elution with solvents mixtures. The unstable analyte is then converted into Br-Pt (II), which is specific for Pta, as it is not a natural decay product of the glycoside in aqueous media. An internal standard, the Br-pterosine-d₂, prepared in our laboratories has been used. Detection and quantification are possible with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) in single ion monitoring mode (SIM). The detectable amount is in the range of ppb. The method allowed us to detect Pta not only in the milk from bracken fern-poisoned cattle but also, for the first time, in the milk from healthy farm animals such as sheep, goat, horse, and donkey mares.

Bovine papillomaviruses, papillomas and cancer in cattle

Bovine papillomaviruses (BPV) are DNA oncogenic viruses inducing hyperplastic benign lesions of both cutaneous and mucosal epithelia in cattle. Ten (BPV 1-10) different viral genotypes have been characterised so far. BPV 1-10 are all strictly species-specific but BPV 1/2 may also infect equids inducing fibroblastic tumours. These benign lesions generally regress but may also occasionally persist, leading to a high risk of evolving into cancer, particularly in the presence of environmental carcinogenic co-factors. Among these, bracken fern is the most extensively studied. The synergism between immunosuppressants and carcinogenic principles from bracken fern and the virus has been experimentally demonstrated for both urinary bladder and alimentary canal cancer in cows whose diets were based on this plant. BPV associated tumours have veterinary and agricultural relevance in their own right, although they have also been studied as a relevant model of Human papillomavirus (HPV). Recent insights into BPV biology have paved the way to new fields of speculation on the role of these viruses in neoplastic transformation of cells other than epithelial ones. This review will briefly summarise BPV genome organization, will describe in greater detail the functions of viral oncoproteins, the interaction between the virus and co-carcinogens in tumour development; relevant aspects of immunity and vaccines will also be discussed.

Increased SCE levels in Mediterranean Italian buffaloes affected by limb malformation (transversal hemimelia)

In recent years some buffalo farms in Campania have reported the birth of calves with limb malformation, especially with transversal hemimelia. We investigated 20 Mediterranean Italian buffaloes (8 males and 12 females) from one day to six months of age, of which 10 were affected by transversal hemimelia (group 1) and 10 were healthy controls (group 2). The following clinical and radiological patterns were observed in the malformed animals: hind limbs amputated, the right amputated off the second tarsus bones and the left amputated off the proximal epiphysis metatarsus, and the right thoracic limb hypoplasic (1 female); left hind limb amputated off the proximal epiphysis metatarsus (2 females and 1 male); left hind limb amputated off the third tarsus bones (1 female); left hind limb amputated off the tibia (1 female and 1 male); left hind limb amputated off the distal epiphysis metatarsus (1 female); left hind limb amputated off the first phalanx (1 male); right hind limb amputated off the proximal epiphysis metatarsus (1 male). In their malformed limbs all the animals presented more or less developed outlines of claws. The mean rate of SCE/cell in animals with transversal hemimelia was 8.80 +/- 3.19, that of the controls 6.61 +/- 2.73. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001).