Influence of Dietary Copper Methionine Concentrations on Growth Performance, Digestibility of Nutrients, Serum Lipid Profiles, and Immune Defenses in Broilers

Dietary copper requirement of broilers fed a corn-soybean meal diet during 22-42 d of age

This research was to assess the dietary copper (Cu) requirement of broiler chickens fed a practical corn-soybean meal diet during 22-42 d of age. A total of 288 numbered Arbor Acres male broilers at 22 d of age were randomly allotted 6 treatments with 8 replicate cages (6 broilers per cage) per treatment. Broilers were fed a Cu-unsupplemented corn-soybean meal basal diet (control, containing 7.36 mg Cu/kg) or the basal diet added with 3, 6, 9, 12, or 15 mg Cu/kg from CuSO4·5H2O for 21 d. Quadratic, asymptotic and broken-line models were fitted and the best fitted models were selected to determine dietary Cu requirements. The results revealed that the contents of Cu in serum and liver, mRNA expression levels of Cu- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) in liver and monoamine oxidase b (MAO B) in heart, as well as protein expression level of CuZnSOD in liver were affected (P < 0.05) by supplemental Cu levels, and the above indices varied linearly and quadratically (P < 0.05) with increasing Cu levels. Dietary Cu requirements assessed according to the best fitted broken-line models (P < 0.05) of the above indexes were 10.45-13.81 mg/kg. It was concluded that mRNA expression levels of CuZnSOD in liver and MAO B in heart, as well as liver CuZnSOD protein expression level were new specific sensitive biomarkers for estimating dietary Cu requirements, and the dietary Cu requirement was recommended to be 14 mg/kg to support Cu metabolic needs related to key Cu-containing enzymes in broilers fed the corn-soybean meal diet during 22-42 d of age, which was higher than the dietary Cu requirement (8 mg/kg) for broilers at the corresponding stage suggested by the Chinese Feeding Standard of Chicken.

Selenium-Rich Black Soldier Fly Supplementation Enriches Serum Indexes and Egg Selenium Content in Laying Hens

A certain amount of selenium (Se) is usually added to the diet of laying hens to improve the quality and nutritional value of eggs. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of selenium-rich black soldier fly (BSF) supplementation in diets on laying production performance, egg quality, serum indexes, and egg selenium content of Hy-line variety brown laying hens. A total of 288 at 49-week-old healthy laying hens were divided into 3 treatment groups with 6 replicates per group and 16 hens per replicate using a single-factor completely randomized design. Treatments consisted of (1) control (basal diet without supplemental Se), (2) 0.30 mg/kg supplemental Se, (Se as sodium selenite, SS), and (3) 0.30 mg/kg supplemental Se (Se as selenium-rich black soldier fly, SE-BSF). Laying performance was not affected by dietary Se. There was no effect of selenium-rich BSF on egg quality (P > 0.05). The contents of malonaldehyde (MDA) were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). On the contrary, dietary Se supplementation increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD, P < 0.05) and catalase (CAT, P < 0.05) and increased the concentration of reduced glutathione (P < 0.05). In addition, selenium-rich BSF supplementation significantly increased the Se content of eggs (P < 0.05). These results indicate that Se supplementation did not affect laying production performance and egg quality of laying hens, but the supplementation could improve antioxidant capacity and increased the Se content of eggs.

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.

Protective Effects of Selenium Nanoparticles against Bisphenol A-Induced Toxicity in Porcine Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used to harden plastics and polycarbonates and causes serious toxic effects in multiple organs, including the intestines. Selenium, as an essential nutrient element for humans and animals, exhibits a predominant effect in various physiological processes. Selenium nanoparticles have attracted more and more attention due to their outstanding biological activity and biosafety. We prepared chitosan-coated selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and further compared the protective effects, and investigated the underlying mechanism of SeNPs and inorganic selenium (Na₂SeO₃) on BPA-induced toxicity in porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). The particle size, zeta potential, and microstructure of SeNPs were detected by using a nano-selenium particle size meter and a transmission electron microscope. IPEC-J2 cells were exposed to BPA alone or simultaneously exposed to BPA and SeNPs or Na₂SeO₃. The CCK8 assay was performed to screen the optimal concentration of BPA exposure and the optimal concentration of SeNPs and Na₂SeO₃ treatment. The apoptosis rate was detected by flow cytometry. Real-time PCR and Western blot methods were used to analyze the mRNA and protein expression of factors related to tight junctions, apoptosis, inflammatory responses and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Increased death and morphological damage were observed after BPA exposure, and these increases were attenuated by SeNPs and Na₂SeO₃ treatment. BPA exposure disturbed the tight junction function involved with decreased expression of tight junction protein Zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1), occludin, and claudin-1 proteins. Proinflammatory response mediated by the transcription factor nuclear factor-k-gene binding (NF-κB), such as elevated levels of interleukin-1β(IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-17 (IL-17), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression was induced at 6 and 24 h after BPA exposure. BPA exposure also disturbed the oxidant/antioxidant status and led to oxidative stress. IPEC-J2 cell apoptosis was induced by BPA exposure, as indicated by increased BCL-2-associated X protein (Bax), caspase 3, caspase 8, and caspase 9 expression and decreased B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-xl expression. BPA exposure activated the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) mediated by the receptor protein kinase receptor-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), Inositol requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1α), and activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6). We found that treatment with SeNPs and Na₂SeO₃ can alleviate the intestinal damage caused by BPA. SeNPs were superior to Na₂SeO₃ and counteracted BPA-induced tight junction function injury, proinflammatory response, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and ERS stress. Our findings suggest that SeNPs protect intestinal epithelial cells from BPA-induced damage, partly through inhibiting ER stress activation and subsequently attenuating proinflammatory responses and oxidative stress and suppressing apoptosis, thus enhancing the intestinal epithelial barrier function. Our data indicate that selenium nanoparticles may represent an effective and reliable tool for preventing BPA toxicity in animals and humans.

Effects of Cadmium on Liver Function and Its Metabolomics Profile in the Guizhou Black Goat

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal, which will lead to ecosystem contamination, threatening the life of grazing animals. Goats are an important grazing animal biomarker to evaluate Cd toxicity, but the effect of short-term and high-concentration Cd toxicity on goat liver function and its latent mechanism is still unclear. A total of ten male Guizhou black goats were randomly divided into two groups: CON group, sterilized tap water (no CdCl₂), and Cd group (20 mg Cd·kg^-1·BW, CdCl₂⋅2.5H₂O). The test lasted for 30 days. In this study, we found that Cd poisoning in drinking water affected significantly the distribution of Cd in the goat offal and tissues, and damaged the goat's immune function of the liver. With a metabolomics approach, 59 metabolites were identified. Metabolomics analysis suggested that Cd affected lipid and amino acid metabolism of the goat liver. Collectively, our results confirmed the effect of Cd on liver function and liver metabolism, and provided insights on the molecular basis for early warnings of Cd poisoning in goats.

Effects of Different Concentration of Copper on Performance, Immunity and Carcass Traits in Broiler Japanese Quails

In this study, the effects of dietary copper supplements on broiler Japanese quail growth performance, immune response, blood biochemistry, and carcass quality were examined. Two copper sources (copper sulphate-CuS, and copper methionine-CuM), each at five distinct dietary dosages of 5, 10, 15, 100, and 150 mg/kg, were used. A total of 280 (10 × 4 × 7) day-old quail chicks of uniform body weight were randomly distributed into 10 treatments with 4 replicates each and having 7 chicks in each replicate. In comparison to CuS-supplemented diets, CuM-supplemented diets (100 mg Cu/kg diet) considerably (P ≤ 0.01) increased body weight gain and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR). In the 150-mg CuM/kg diet, the cell-mediated immune response (foot web index to PHAP) was considerably (P ≤ 0.01) greater. The humoral immune response (HA titre to SRBC) was substantially (P ≤ 0.01) lower with CuS-supplemented meals than with CuM-supplemented diets. When compared to CuS source, the weight of the bursa and spleen from CuM source was considerably (P ≤ 0.01) higher. The 100- and 150-mg CuM/kg diets considerably (P ≤ 0.01) reduced serum cholesterol levels. Thus, it may be concluded that dietary supplementation of copper methionine as a source of Cu @ 100 mg Cu/kg diet to broiler Japanese quails was more effective in improving growth performance, immunological response, carcass quality features, and serum cholesterol reduction.

Effects of supplementation of inorganic trace elements with organic trace elements chelated with hydroxy methionine on laying performance, egg quality, blood micronutrients, antioxidant capacity and immune function of laying ducks

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the effects of organic trace elements chelated with hydroxy methionine (OTE-HM) in diets, which substituted inorganic trace elements, on laying performance, egg quality, blood microelement content, antioxidant capacity and immune function of laying ducks.

Methods

A total of 300 healthy laying ducks at age of 30 wk were randomly divided into 5 treatments and 10 ducks per replicate. The treatments included a control group (CON) which was served with basal diet supplemented with 20 mg/kg Cu, 50 mg/kg Fe, 70 mg/kg Mn, and 70 mg/kg Zn in inorganic form, and 4 OTE-HM treated groups (OTE-HM25, OTE-HM50, OTE-HM75, OTE-HM100) which were served with basal diets supplemented with OTE-HM providing trace elements (combination of Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn) at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of the commercial levels, respectively.

Results

Results showed that substitution of inorganic trace elements with OTE-HM did not affect egg production, qualified egg rate, average egg weight, average daily egg mass, average daily feed intake, or feed per kg egg of laying ducks (P &gt; 0.05). Dietary with OTE-HM did not influence eggshell strength, eggshell thickness, egg shape index, eggshell ratio, yolk ratio, albumen ratio, albumen height, and Haugh unit of the sampled eggs of ducks (P &gt; 0.05), but increased the yolk color, compared with dietary with inorganic trace elements (P&lt; 0.01). Moreover, the blood content of Cu of the laying ducks was significantly increased by OTE-HM compared with that in CON (P&lt; 0.001), but the other elements in laying duck blood were not different among treatments (P &gt; 0.05). OTE-HM (75% and 100%) significantly increased serum activities of glutathione peroxidase and Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase, and decreased serum content of malonaldehyde of laying ducks compared with those in CON (P&lt; 0.05). OTE-HM (50%, 75%, and 100%) significantly increased the serum contents of immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin A of laying ducks compared with those in CON (P&lt; 0.05).

Discussion

Collectively, replacing inorganic trace elements with 50% and 75% OTE-HM in diets did not influence the laying performance or egg quality, but improved trace element efficacy, antioxidant capacity and immune function of the laying ducks.

Condensed Tannins Improved Immune Functions and Reduced Environmental Pollution of Captive Sichuan Black Goat Kids Under Cadmium Toxicity

To investigate the effects of condensed tannins (CT) on immune functions and nitrogen (N) emissions of captive Sichuan black goat kids under cadmium (Cd) toxicity, a total of 18 Sichuan black goat kids (2 months old, 9.6 ± 1.2 kg) were randomly used in this 30-day trial. The dietary treatments were (1) CON group, basic diet; (2) Cd group, basic diet + oral 10 mg Cd/kg·BW; and (3) CT group, Cd group + 400 mg/kg CT. Oral Cd supplementation significantly decreased the Cu and Fe contents in serums and livers of captive Sichuan black goat kids (P < 0.05), but adding CT in the Cd group increased the Fe and Mo contents and decreased the Cd content in serums and livers (P < 0.05). Additional CT supplementation in the Cd group extremely increased the activities of serum SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT (P < 0.05), and greatly decreased the serum MDA content (P < 0.05). The CT supplementation in the Cd group also extremely increased the concentrations of serum IgG, IgM, and IgA (P < 0.05), and greatly decreased the contents of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in serums (P < 0.05). Adding CT in the Cd group significantly increased the apparent digestibility of CP and EE and decreased the urinary nitrogen (UN) content (P < 0.05, Table 7). In conclusion, the application of additional CT improved antioxidant capacities and immune functions of captive black goats under Cd toxicity, then reduced the oxidative stress and toxic damage of Cd contamination. CT also improved the N digestibility and reduced the N emission, which was helpful to reduce environmental pollution.

Gastrointestinal digestibility insights of different levels of coated complex trace minerals supplementation on growth performance of yellow-feathered broilers

This study was designed to evaluate the optimum additional level of coated complex trace minerals (TMs) and its impacts on the growth performance of broilers through measurement of digestibility of nutrients and intestinal development. In a 56-day trial, a total of 360 one-day-old male yellow-feathered broilers were randomly divided into six dietary treatment groups. Each treatment contained six replicates, with 10 birds. The control group was supplemented with 1,000 mg/kg of uncoated complex TMs in the basal diet (UCCTM1000). The remaining 5 treatments were degressively supplemented with coated complex TMs from 1,000 to 200 mg/kg in the basal diet, which were considered as (CCTM1000), (CCTM800), (CCTM600), (CCTM400), (CCTM200), respectively. Results: On comparing the UCCTM1000 supplementation, the CCTM1000 supplementation decreased the feed to gain ratio (F/G) (P < 0.05), increased digestibility of crude protein (CP) (P < 0.05), crude fat (CF) (P < 0.05), villus height (VH) of duodenum (P < 0.05), and the mRNA expression level of occludin in jejunal mucosa (P < 0.05). In addition, the F/G was lower in the CCTE600 group than that in the CCTE200 group (P < 0.05). The VH to crypt depth (CD) ratio (V/C) of jejunum and ileum in the CCTM400 and CCTM600 groups was higher (P < 0.05) than that in the CCTM1000 group. The serum endotoxin and D-lactate level and CP digestibility were increased by dietary coated complex TMs addition level. The mRNA expression levels of claudin-1 and ZO-1 in the CCTM600 group were higher (P < 0.05) than that in the CCTM1000 group. In conclusion, adding 600 mg/kg of coated complex TMs showed the minimum F/G and the maximum crude protein digestibility and intestine development of yellow-feathered broilers compared with other treatments. This supplementation level of coated complex TMs could totally replace 1,000 mg/kg of uncoated complex TMs to further decrease the dose of TMs and raise economic benefit.

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.

Broiler responses to copper levels and sources: growth, tissue mineral content, antioxidant status and mRNA expression of genes involved in lipid and protein metabolism

BACKGROUND

Five hundred 8-d old male broilers Cobb500 were randomly allotted into 10 treatments in factorial arrangement with 5 Cu levels (0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 mg/kg), and 2 sources (Cu proteinate, CuPro and Cu sulphate, CuSO4.5H2O) for a 10-d-experiment.

RESULTS

Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was better (P < 0.05) in CuPro fed chicks compared with CuSO4.5H2O group. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) decreased linearly (P < 0.05) as dietary Cu increased. A quadratic response (P < 0.05) to Cu levels was found for FCR, being optimized at 9.87 and 8.84 mg Cu/kg in CuPro and CuSO4.5H2O diets, respectively. Copper supplementation linearly increased liver Cu content (P < 0.05) and tended to linearly increase (P = 0.07) phosphorus (P) and copper in tibia. Manganese and zinc were higher (P < 0.05) in tibia of CuPro fed birds. Broilers fed CuPro exhibited lower liver iron (P < 0.05) content, lower activities of Cu, Zn superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) in breast muscle and liver, and glutathione peroxidase in liver. Glutathione peroxidase reduced linearly (P < 0.05) with CuPro levels and increased linearly (P < 0.05) with CuSO4.5H2O levels and were lower (P < 0.05) in all CuPro levels in breast muscle. Breast muscle malondialdehyde concentration tended to be higher (P = 0.08) in broilers fed CuSO4.5H2O. Copper levels linearly increased (P < 0.05) metallothionein (MT) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH) expression in liver, and six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate-1 (STEAP-1) in the intestine. Copper elicited a quadratic response (P < 0.050) in AKT-1 and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in breast muscle, CuZnSOD in liver and antioxidant 1 copper chaperone (ATOX 1) in intestine. Broilers fed CuPro exhibited higher mRNA expression of mTOR in muscle breast and lower CuZnSOD in liver and ATOX 1 in intestine. Interaction (P < 0.05) between levels and sources was found in mRNA expression for GSK-3β, MT, and CuZnSOD in breast muscle, FAS and LPL in liver and MT and CTR1 in intestine.

CONCLUSIONS

CuPro showed beneficial effects on feed conversion and bone mineralization. Organic and inorganic Cu requirements are 9.87 and 8.84 mg Cu/kg, respectively.

The Effects of Oral Administration of Molybdenum Fertilizers on Immune Function of Nanjiang Brown Goat Grazing on Natural Pastures Contaminated by Mixed Heavy Metal

Mineral development and metal smelting seriously polluted the surrounding groundwater and soil, threatening human health through the food chain. To investigate the effects of different sources of molybdenum (Mo) fertilizers on immune function of Nanjiang brown goats grazing on natural pastures under compound pollutions, fertilizing experiment was carried out in Liangshan Yi Nationality Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, China. Eighteen square hectometers of polluted meadows were fenced and were randomly divided into three groups (3 replications/group and 2 hm²/replication). A total of 54 healthy Nanjiang brown goats with an average BW of 31.6 ± 1.5 kg (1 year old) were used to this 30-day test (18 goats per group). The goats from CON group, AM group, and PM group were orally supplemented with deionized water, 15 mg Mo/BW·d (ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate), and 15 mg Mo/BW·d (potassium molybdate), respectively. Compared to CON group, the serum Fe content of grazing animals from AM group and PM group was 10.05% and 3.45% higher (P < 0.05), and the serum Cu content of grazing animals from AM group and PM group was 69.05% and 67.86% lower, respectively (P < 0.05). Mo fertilization significantly increased the levels of blood Hb, RBC, and PCV, and the activities of serum SOD, GSH-Px, CAT, and Cp of grazing goats (P < 0.05), and also extremely decreased the MDA content of experimental goats fed Mo compared to the control goats (P < 0.05). Compared to CON group, the activities of serum IgG, IgA, IgM, IL-2, and TNF-α of grazing animals from AM group and PM group were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the levels of serum IL-6 and IL-1β of grazing goats from AM group and PM group were extremely decreased (P < 0.05). In summary, oral Mo fertilizers can alter the contents of serum mineral elements, reduce oxidative stress, improve immune function, and relieve the toxic damage of goats grazing on contaminated natural grasslands.

Effects of Nano-selenium Poisoning on Immune Function in the Wumeng Semi-fine Wool Sheep

The Wumeng semi-fine wool sheep is vital to the production system in Southwest China. To study the effects of nano-selenium (Nano-Se) poisoning in the Wumeng semi-fine wool sheep, poisoning model was established. A total of 20 animals with an average initial body weight (BW) of 35.57 ± 3.31 kg were used in this study. After 1-week-long acclimatization period, all animals were randomly divided into two groups: (1) control, with no any treatment; (2) Nano-Se group, orally administered 5 mg Nano-Se (BW/kg/day). There were 10 replications/group and one sheep/replication. The experiment lasted for 30 days. Compared with the control, hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume in Nano-Se group markedly decreased (P < 0.01), and the activities of serum lactate dehydrogenase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, cereal third transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase in Nano-Se group significantly increased (P < 0.01). T₃ and FT₃ in serum in Nano-Se group were greatly lower than those in the control (P < 0.01). Contents of T₄, FT₄, and TSH in serum in Nano-Se group were extremely higher than those in the control (P < 0.01). Levels of IgG, IgM, IgA, interleukin 2 (IL-2), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in Nano-Se group were much lower than those of the control (P < 0.01), but levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were greatly higher than those in the control (P < 0.01). Compared with the control, serum superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxide, total antioxidant capacity, and catalase from Nano-Se group extremely decreased (P < 0.01), and content of serum malondialdehyde in Nano-Se group markedly increased (P < 0.01). The current results indicated that the blood parameters in the Wumeng semi-fine wool sheep were affected by Nano-Se poisoning, and the immune function and antioxidant capacity were greatly reduced too.

Effects of Nano-copper on Antioxidant Function in Copper-Deprived Guizhou Black Goats

Guizhou black goats are essential to the production system in the Wumeng prairie in the Western China. This study aimed to determine the influence of nano-copper on antioxidant system in copper-deprived Guizhou black goats. We analyzed mineral contents in soil, forage, and goats' tissues. Blood parameters were also determined. The results showed that copper concentrations in soil and forage were significantly lower, and the iron content was significantly higher in affected compared with healthy area (P < 0.01). Copper concentrations in animal tissues (blood, liver, and hair) were significantly lower and iron content was significantly higher in affected compared with healthy goats (P < 0.01). After supplementation of nano-copper or copper sulfate, copper concentration in blood was significantly increased and iron content was significantly lower (P < 0.01). Compared with nano-copper group, the effect of copper sulfate was slower. Hemoglobin levels, erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume from nano-copper and copper sulfate groups were significantly higher than those in copper-deprived goats (P < 0.01). Compared with the copper-deprived Guizhou black goats, serum ceruloplasmin levels in nano-copper and copper sulfate groups were significantly increased, while serum lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and creatinine were significantly decreased (P < 0.01). Compared with the copper-deprived animals, serum superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and total antioxidant capacity in nano-copper and copper sulfate groups were significantly higher, while serum malondialdehyde content was significantly lower (P < 0.01). The effect of copper sulfate group was significantly lower than that in nano-copper group (P < 0.01). Consequently, nano-copper could not only markedly increase the copper content in blood in copper-deprived Guizhou black goats but also much improves the antioxidant capacity.

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.

Responses of Chinese Merino Sheep (Junken Type) on Copper-Deprived Natural Pasture

To research responses of Chinese Merino Sheep (Junken type) to copper-deprived natural pasture, we analyzed mineral contents in soil, forage, and sheep tissues. Physiological and biochemical parameters were also determined. Results showed that copper concentrations in soil and forage from affected pastures were significantly lower than those in healthy ranges (P < 0.01). Copper contents in animal tissues (blood, liver, and wool) from affected Chinese Merino Sheep were also significantly lower than those in healthy sheep (P < 0.01). Hemoglobin levels, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin from affected Chinese Merino Sheep were significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Serum ceruloplasmin was significantly lower in affected Chinese Merino Sheep than that in healthy animals, while activities of lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase in serum were significantly higher in affected compared with healthy animals (P < 0.01). The levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, and catalase in serum were significantly lower, and the malondialdehyde content was significantly higher in affected compared with healthy sheep (P < 0.01). The levels of interleukin-2, interleukin 6, interleukin-1β, immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin M, and immunoglobulin G in copper-deprived sheep were significantly lower than those in healthy animals (P < 0.01). Copper deprivation in forage not only influenced the mineral content in blood but also severely disrupted blood parameters (physiology, biochemistry, immunity, and antioxidant) in Chinese Merino Sheep.

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.

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

The Wumeng semi-fine wool sheep is vital to the production system of the Wumeng mountainous area in Southwest China. To study the effect of nano-copper poisoning in the Wumeng semi-fine wool sheep, nano-copper poisoning model was established in sheep. We determined blood physiological and biochemical parameters, immune indexes, and antioxidant indicators. The results showed that Hb, RBC, and PCV levels in blood from the nano-copper group were markedly lower (P < 0.01) than those in the control group. Serum LDH, AST, ALT, CPK, and Cp from the nano-copper group were significantly higher (P < 0.01) than those in control animals. Serum SOD, GSH-Px, CAT, and T-AOC from the nano-copper group were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in control sheep, and MDA content in serum from the nano-copper group were markedly higher (P < 0.01) than those in control sheep. The levels of IL-2, IL-6, IL-1β, IgA, IgM, and IgG from the nano-copper group were significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those in the control group. It was concluded that nano-copper poisoning could not only affect the immune function of Wumeng semi-fine wool sheep but also reduce the antioxidant capacity.

Effects of Copper Sources and Levels on Lipid Profiles, Immune Parameters, Antioxidant Defenses, and Trace Element Residues in Broilers

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of copper sources and levels on lipid profiles, immune parameters, antioxidant defenses, and trace element contents of meat and liver in Arbor Acres broilers. A total of 504 male broilers were randomly divided into 7 groups with 6 replicates per group and 12 broilers per replicate. The experiment was used in a 3 × 2 + 1 factorial experiment design; broilers in the control group were fed a basal diet, and broilers in the other six groups were fed basal diets supplemented with 3 sources (copper sulfate, tribasic copper chloride, and copper methionate) and 2 levels (10 and 20 mg/kg). The results showed that the levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in broilers were significantly decreased with the increase of dietary copper level (P < 0.05). Serum IL-6 and IgA contents, ceruloplasmin and GSH-Px activities, and liver copper contents of broilers increased significantly with dietary copper levels (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, dietary copper supplementation significantly decreased serum cholesterol (P < 0.05) and significantly increased serum IL-6, ceruloplasmin, SOD, GSH-Px, and liver copper (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation of basic copper chloride and copper methionate significantly decreased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol content and liver iron content (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary copper supplementation can effectively reduce serum cholesterol content and improve immune and antioxidant functions in broilers. Adding 20 mg/kg copper to broiler diet can increase the copper content in the liver, but it will not affect the copper content in the chicken.