1
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Roth TL, Rebolloso SL, Donelan EM, Rispoli LA, Buchweitz JP. Rhinoceros horn mineral and metal concentrations vary by sample location, depth, and color. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13808. [PMID: 38877154 PMCID: PMC11178811 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64472-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Poaching is again driving rhinos to the brink of extinction due to the demand for rhino horn products consumed for cultural, medicinal, and social purposes. Paradoxically, the same horn for which rhinos are killed may contain valuable clues about the species' health. Analyses of horn composition could reveal such useful bioindicators while elucidating what people actually ingest when they consume horn derivatives. Our goals were to quantify minerals (including metals) in rhino horn and investigate sampling factors potentially impacting results. Horns (n = 22) obtained during necropsies of white (n = 3) and black (n = 13) zoo rhinos were sampled in several locations yielding 182 specimens for analysis. Initial data exposed environmental (soil) contamination in the horn's exterior layer, but also confirmed that deep (≥ 1 cm), contaminant-free samples contained measurable concentrations of numerous minerals (n = 18). Of the factors examined in deep samples, color-associated mineral differences were the most profound with dark samples higher in zinc, copper, lead, and barium (p < 0.05). Our data demonstrate that rhino horns contain both essential and potentially toxic minerals that could be relevant to rhino health status, but low concentrations make their human health benefits or risks unlikely following consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri L Roth
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA.
| | - Sarah L Rebolloso
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 4125 Beaumont Rd, Lansing, MI, 489100, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Donelan
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA
| | - Louisa A Rispoli
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH, 45220, USA
| | - John P Buchweitz
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 4125 Beaumont Rd, Lansing, MI, 489100, USA
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2
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van der Meijs RM, van Leeuwen W, Prins C, Wittink F, Pirovano W, Duijsings D, van den Bogert B, Bruins-van Sonsbeek LGR. GUT MICROBIOME DIVERSITY OF THREE RHINOCEROS SPECIES IN EUROPEAN ZOOS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 55:301-312. [PMID: 38875187 DOI: 10.1638/2023-0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The wild rhinoceros populations have declined drastically in the past decades because the rhinoceros are heavily hunted for their horns. Zoological institutions aim to conserve rhinoceros populations in captivity, but one of the challenges of ex situ conservation is to provide food sources that resemble those available in the wild. Considering that the mammalian gut microbiota is a pivotal player in their host's health, the gut microbiota of rhinoceros may also play a role in the bioavailability of nutrients. Therefore, this study aims to characterize the fecal microbiome composition of grazing white rhinoceros (WR; Ceratotherium simum) and greater one-horned rhinoceros (GOHR; Rhinoceros unicornis) as well as the browsing black rhinoceros (BR; Diceros bicornis) kept in European zoos. Over the course of 1 yr, 166 fecal samples in total were collected from 9 BR (n = 39), 10 GOHR (n = 56), and 14 WR (n = 71) from 23 zoological institutions. The bacterial composition in the samples was determined using 16S rRNA gene Illumina sequencing. The fecal microbiomes of rhinoceros clustered by species, with BR clustering more distantly from GOHR and WR. Furthermore, the data report clustering of rhinoceros microbiota according to individual rhinoceros and institutional origin, showing that zoological institutions play a significant role in shaping the gut microbiome of rhinoceros species. In addition, BR exhibit a relatively higher microbial diversity than GOHR and WR. BR seem more susceptible to microbial gut changes and appear to have a more diverse microbiome composition among individuals than GOHR and WR. These data expand on the role of gut microbes and can provide baseline data for continued efforts in rhinoceros conservation and health status.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Willem van Leeuwen
- University of Applied Sciences Leiden, Zernikedreef, 2333 CK Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Casper Prins
- BaseClear B.V., Sylviusweg, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Floyd Wittink
- University of Applied Sciences Leiden, Zernikedreef, 2333 CK Leiden, The Netherlands
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3
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Wittwer A, Roller M, Müller DWH, Bertelsen MF, Lackey LB, Steck B, Biddle R, Versteege L, Clauss M. Historical development of the survivorship of zoo rhinoceroses-A comparative historical analysis. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:797-810. [PMID: 37350431 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Zoo animal husbandry is a skill that should be developing constantly. In theory, this should lead to an improvement of zoo animal survivorship over time. Additionally, it has been suggested that species that are at a comparatively higher risk of extinction in their natural habitats (in situ) might also be more difficult to keep under zoo conditions (ex situ). Here, we assessed these questions for three zoo-managed rhinoceros species with different extinction risk status allocated by the IUCN: the "critically endangered" black rhino (Diceros bicornis), the "vulnerable" greater one-horned (GOH) rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), and the "near threatened" white rhino (Ceratotherium simum). Comparing zoo animals ≥1 year of age, the black rhino had the lowest and the white rhino the highest survivorship, in congruence with their extinction risk status. Historically, the survivorship of both black and white rhino in zoos improved significantly over time, whereas that of GOH rhino stagnated. Juvenile mortality was generally low and decreased even further in black and white rhinos over time. Together with the development of population pyramids, this shows increasing competence of the global zoo community to sustain all three species. Compared to the continuously expanding zoo population of GOH and white rhinos, the zoo-managed black rhino population has stagnated in numbers in recent years. Zoos do not only contribute to conservation by propagating ex situ populations, but also by increasing species-specific husbandry skills. We recommend detailed research to understand specific factors responsible for the stagnation but also the general improvement of survivorship of zoo-managed rhinos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Wittwer
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rebecca Biddle
- Twycross Zoo-East Midland Zoological Society, Norton Grange, Warwickshire, UK
| | | | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Corder ML, Petricoin EF, Li Y, Cleland TP, DeCandia AL, Alonso Aguirre A, Pukazhenthi BS. Metabolomic profiling implicates mitochondrial and immune dysfunction in disease syndromes of the critically endangered black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). Sci Rep 2023; 13:15464. [PMID: 37726331 PMCID: PMC10509206 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41508-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The critically endangered black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis; black rhino) experiences extinction threats from poaching in-situ. The ex-situ population, which serves as a genetic reservoir against impending extinction threats, experiences its own threats to survival related to several disease syndromes not typically observed among their wild counterparts. We performed an untargeted metabolomic analysis of serum from 30 ex-situ housed black rhinos (Eastern black rhino, EBR, n = 14 animals; Southern black rhino, SBR, n = 16 animals) and analyzed differences in metabolite profiles between subspecies, sex, and health status (healthy n = 13 vs. diseased n = 14). Of the 636 metabolites detected, several were differentially (fold change > 1.5; p < 0.05) expressed between EBR vs. SBR (40 metabolites), female vs. male (36 metabolites), and healthy vs. diseased (22 metabolites). Results suggest dysregulation of propanoate, amino acid metabolism, and bile acid biosynthesis in the subspecies and sex comparisons. Assessment of healthy versus diseased rhinos indicates involvement of arachidonic acid metabolism, bile acid biosynthesis, and the pentose phosphate pathway in animals exhibiting inflammatory disease syndromes. This study represents the first systematic characterization of the circulating serum metabolome in the black rhinoceros. Findings further implicate mitochondrial and immune dysfunction as key contributors for the diverse disease syndromes reported in ex-situ managed black rhinos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly L Corder
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Species Survival, Front Royal, 22630, USA
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, 20900, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, 22030, USA
| | - Emanuel F Petricoin
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, 20900, USA
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | | | - Alexandra L DeCandia
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Conservation Genomics, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - A Alonso Aguirre
- Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, 80523, USA
| | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Center for Species Survival, Front Royal, 22630, USA.
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5
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Steyrer C, Miller M, Hewlett J, Buss P, Hooijberg EH. Markers of inflammation in free-living African elephants (Loxodonta africana): Reference intervals and diagnostic performance of acute phase reactants. Vet Clin Pathol 2023; 52 Suppl 1:75-86. [PMID: 36303463 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute phase reactants (APRs) have not been investigated in free-living African elephants (Loxodonta africana), and there is little information about negative APRs albumin and serum iron in elephants. OBJECTIVES We aimed to generate reference intervals (RIs) for APRs for free-living African elephants, and to determine the diagnostic performance of APRs in apparently healthy elephants and elephants with inflammatory lesions. METHODS Stored serum samples from 49 apparently healthy and 16 injured free-living elephants were used. The following APRs and methods were included: albumin, bromocresol green; haptoglobin, colorimetric assay; serum amyloid A (SAA), multispecies immunoturbidometric assay, and serum iron with ferrozine method. Reference intervals were generated using the nonparametric method. Indices of diagnostic accuracy were determined by receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. RESULTS Reference intervals were: albumin 41-55 g/L, haptoglobin 0.16-3.51 g/L, SAA < 10 mg/L, and serum iron 8.60-16.99 μmol/L. Serum iron and albumin concentrations were lower and haptoglobin and SAA concentrations were higher in the injured group. Serum iron had the best ability to predict health or inflammation, followed by haptoglobin, SAA, and albumin, with the area under the ROC curve ranging from 0.88-0.93. CONCLUSIONS SAA concentrations were lower in healthy African vs Asian elephants, and species-specific RIs should be used. Serum iron was determined to be a diagnostically useful negative APR which should be added to APR panels for elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Steyrer
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Michele Miller
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jennie Hewlett
- Department of Production Animal Studies and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Department of Production Animal Studies and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, South Africa
| | - Emma H Hooijberg
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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6
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Hooijberg EH, Cray C. Acute phase reactants in nondomesticated mammals-A veterinary clinical pathology perspective. Vet Clin Pathol 2023; 52 Suppl 1:19-36. [PMID: 36289012 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Applications for acute phase reactants (APRs) in nondomesticated mammals include identifying inflammatory disease, monitoring the course of specific disease processes and recovery during rehabilitation, detecting preclinical or subclinical disease, being used as bioindicators for monitoring population and ecosystem health, and as markers of stress and animal welfare. Serum amyloid A, haptoglobin, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, albumin, and iron are most commonly measured. The procedure for evaluating an APR in a nondomesticated mammalian species should follow a stepwise approach beginning with an assessment of analytical performance, followed by an evaluation of overlap performance, clinical performance, and impact on patient outcomes and management. The lack of species-specific standards and antibodies for nondomesticated mammals presents a challenge, and more attention needs to be focused on assessing cross-reactivity and ensuring adequate analytical performance of APR assays. Sample selection for the initial evaluation of APRs should consider preanalytical influences and should originate from animals with confirmed inflammatory disease and healthy animals. Reference intervals should be generated according to published guidelines. Further evaluation should focus on assessing the diagnostic utility of APRs in specific disease scenarios relevant to a species. Greater attention should be paid to assay performance and uniformity of methods when using APRs for population and ecosystem surveillance. Veterinary clinical pathologists should work closely with zoo veterinarians and wildlife researchers to optimize the accuracy and utility of APR measurements in these various conservation medicine scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma H Hooijberg
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies and Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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7
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Leiberich M, Pohlin F, Hooijberg EH, Hofmeyr M, Cooper D, Reuben M, Meyer LCR. The effects of feeding and transport length on the welfare of white rhinoceroses (
Ceratotherium simum simum
) during long-distance translocations: a preliminary study. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2022; 93:131-138. [DOI: 10.36303/jsava.480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Leiberich
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
| | - F Pohlin
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna,
Austria
| | - EH Hooijberg
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
| | - M Hofmeyr
- Great Plains Conservation and Rhinos Without Borders,
Botswana
- Rhino Recovery Fund/Wildlife Conservation Network and Oak Foundation,
United Kingdom
| | - D Cooper
- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife,
South Africa
| | - M Reuben
- Department of Wildlife and National Parks,
Botswana
| | - LCR Meyer
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
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8
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ASSESSMENT OF CAPILLARY ZONE ELECTROPHORESIS AND SERUM AMYLOID A QUANTITATION IN CLINICALLY NORMAL AND ABNORMAL SOUTHERN WHITE RHINOCEROS ( CERATOTHERIUM SIMUM SIMUM) AND SOUTHERN BLACK RHINOCEROS ( DICEROS BICORNIS MINOR). J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 53:319-330. [PMID: 35758573 DOI: 10.1638/2021-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and an immunoassay for serum amyloid A (SAA) were used to examine serum samples from clinically normal and abnormal southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) and southern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis minor) under managed care. CZE resolved seven fractions as well as subfractions for α1 globulins. Reference intervals were calculated for white rhinoceros (n = 33) and found to have some differences over previously reported intervals generated using agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE) methods in sera from free-ranging animals. In addition, the coefficient of variation related to fraction quantitation was found to be overlapping or superior to that reported for AGE. No significant differences were observed in CZE measurands and total protein between clinically normal and abnormal rhinoceros. In contrast to CZE, significant differences in SAA levels (P < 0.001) were observed in samples from the white rhinoceros between clinically normal and abnormal animals. In addition, in limited sample sets with repeated measures, SAA provided prognostic value. Future studies should generate more robust reference intervals and delineate the application of both SAA quantitation and CZE in routine health assessments and in prognostication.
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DEVELOPMENT OF A QUANTITATIVE IMMUNOASSAY FOR SERUM HAPTOGLOBIN AS A PUTATIVE DISEASE MARKER IN THE SOUTHERN WHITE RHINOCEROS (CERATOTHERIUM SIMUM SIMUM). J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 53:141-152. [DOI: 10.1638/2020-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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10
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Roth TL, Philpott M, Wojtusik J. Rhinoceros serum labile plasma iron and associated redox potential: interspecific variation, sex bias and iron overload disorder disconnect. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 10:coac025. [PMID: 37155459 PMCID: PMC9040876 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
A consequence of the poaching crisis is that managed rhinoceros populations are increasingly important for species conservation. However, black rhinoceroses (BR; Diceros bicornis) and Sumatran rhinoceroses (SR; Dicerorhinus Sumatrensis) in human care often store excessive iron in organ tissues, a condition termed iron overload disorder (IOD). IOD research is impeded by the challenge of accurately monitoring body iron load in living rhinoceroses. The goals of this study were to (i) determine if labile plasma iron (LPI) is an accurate IOD biomarker and (ii) identify factors associated with iron-independent serum oxidative reduction potential (ORP). Serum (106 samples) from SRs (n = 8), BRs (n = 28), white rhinoceros (n = 24) and greater one-horned rhinoceros (GOH; n = 16) was analysed for LPI. Samples from all four species tested positive for LPI, and a higher proportion of GOH rhinoceros samples were LPI positive compared with those of the other three species (P < 0.05). In SRs, the only LPI-positive samples were those from individuals clinically ill with IOD, but samples from outwardly healthy individuals of the other three species were LPI positive. Serum ORP was lower in SRs compared with that in the other three species (P < 0.001), and iron chelation only reduced ORP in the GOH species (P < 0.01; ~5%). Serum ORP sex bias was revealed in three species with males exhibiting higher ORP than females (P < 0.001), the exception being the SR in which ORP was low for both sexes. ORP was not associated with age or serum iron concentrations (P ≥ 0.05), but was positively correlated with ferritin (P < 0.01). The disconnect between LPI and IOD was unanticipated, and LPI cannot be recommended as a biomarker of advanced rhino IOD. However, data provide valuable insight into the complex puzzle of rhinoceros IOD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri L Roth
- Corresponding author: Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA. Tel: 513-569-8220.
| | - Megan Philpott
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220 USA
| | - Jessye Wojtusik
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220 USA
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Wojtusik J, Curry E, Roth TL. Rhinoceros Serum microRNAs: Identification, Characterization, and Evaluation of Potential Iron Overload Biomarkers. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:711576. [PMID: 34977204 PMCID: PMC8716540 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.711576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron overload disorder (IOD) in critically endangered Sumatran (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) and black (Diceros bicornis) rhinoceros is an over-accumulation of iron in organs which may exacerbate other diseases and indicate metabolic disturbances. IOD in rhinos is not well understood and diagnostics and therapeutics are limited in effectiveness. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs capable of altering protein synthesis. miRNA expression responds to physiological states and could serve as the basis for development of diagnostics and therapeutics. This study aimed to identify miRNAs differentially expressed among healthy rhinos and those afflicted with IOD or other diseases ("unhealthy"), and assess expression of select miRNAs to evaluate their potential as biomarkers of IOD. miRNAs in serum of black (n = 11 samples; five individuals) and Sumatran (n = 7 samples; four individuals) rhinos, representing individuals categorized as healthy (n = 9), unhealthy (n = 5), and afflicted by IOD (n = 3) were sequenced. In total, 715 miRNAs were identified, of which 160 were novel, 131 were specific to black rhinos, and 108 were specific to Sumatran rhinos. Additionally, 95 miRNAs were specific to healthy individuals, 31 specific to unhealthy, and 63 were specific to IOD individuals. Among healthy, unhealthy, and IOD states, 21 miRNAs were differentially expressed (P ≤ 0.01). Five known miRNAs (let-7g, miR-16b, miR-30e, miR-143, and miR-146a) were selected for further assessment via RT-qPCR in serum from black (n = 61 samples; seven individuals) and Sumatran (n = 38 samples; five individuals) rhinos. let-7g, miR-30e, and miR-143 all showed significant increased expression (P ≤ 0.05) during IOD (between 1 and 2 years prior to death) and late IOD (within 1 year of death) compared to healthy and unhealthy individuals. miR-16b expression increased (P ≤ 0.05) in late IOD, but was not different among IOD, healthy, and unhealthy states (P > 0.05). Expression of miR-146a increased in IOD and late IOD as compared to unhealthy samples (P ≤ 0.05) but was not different from the healthy state (P > 0.05). Selected serum miRNAs of black and Sumatran rhinos, in particular let-7g, miR-30e, and miR-143, could therefore provide a tool for advancing rhino IOD diagnostics that should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessye Wojtusik
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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12
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Sullivan KE, Mylniczenko ND, Nelson SE, Coffin B, Lavin SR. Practical Management of Iron Overload Disorder (IOD) in Black Rhinoceros (BR; Diceros bicornis). Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10111991. [PMID: 33138144 PMCID: PMC7692874 DOI: 10.3390/ani10111991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Black rhinoceros under human care are predisposed to Iron Overload Disorder that is unlike the hereditary condition seen in humans. We aim to address the black rhino caretaker community at multiple perspectives (keeper, curator, veterinarian, nutritionist, veterinary technician, and researcher) to describe approaches to Iron Overload Disorder in black rhinos and share learnings. This report includes sections on (1) background on how iron functions in comparative species and how Iron Overload Disorder appears to work in black rhinos, (2) practical recommendations for known diagnostics, (3) a brief review of current investigations on inflammatory and other potential biomarkers, (4) nutrition knowledge and advice as prevention, and (5) an overview of treatment options including information on chelation and details on performing large volume voluntary phlebotomy. The aim is to use evidence to support the successful management of this disorder to ensure optimal animal health, welfare, and longevity for a sustainable black rhinoceros population. Abstract Critically endangered black rhinoceros (BR) under human care are predisposed to non-hemochromatosis Iron Overload Disorder (IOD). Over the last 30 years, BR have been documented with diseases that have either been induced by or exacerbated by IOD, prompting significant efforts to investigate and address this disorder. IOD is a multi-factorial chronic disease process requiring an evidence-based and integrative long-term approach. While research continues to elucidate the complexities of iron absorption, metabolism, and dysregulation in this species, preventive treatments are recommended and explained herein. The aim of this report is to highlight the accumulated evidence in nutrition, clinical medicine, and behavioral husbandry supporting the successful management of this disorder to ensure optimal animal health, welfare, and longevity for a sustainable black rhinoceros population.
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Pouillevet H, Soetart N, Boucher D, Wedlarski R, Jaillardon L. Inflammatory and oxidative status in European captive black rhinoceroses: A link with Iron Overload Disorder? PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231514. [PMID: 32785261 PMCID: PMC7423059 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron Overload Disorder (IOD) is a syndrome developed by captive browsing rhinoceroses like black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis), in which hemosiderosis develops in vital organs while free iron accumulates in the body, potentially predisposing to various secondary diseases. Captive grazing species like white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum) do not seem to be affected. The authors hypothesized that inflammation and oxidative stress may be implicated in the pathogenesis of IOD in captive black rhinoceroses, making this syndrome a potential common denominator to various diseases described in captivity in this species. In this prospective study, 15 black (BR) and 29 white rhinoceroses (WR) originating from 22 European zoos were blood-sampled and compared for their iron status (serum iron), liver/muscle biochemical parameters (AST, GGT, cholesterol), inflammatory status (total proteins, protein electrophoresis) and oxidative stress markers (SOD, GPX, dROMs). Results showed higher serum iron and liver enzyme levels in black rhinoceroses (P < 0.01), as well as higher dROMs (P < 0.01) and a trend for higher GPX (P = 0.06) levels. The albumin/globulin ratio was lower in black rhinoceroses (P < 0.05) due to higher α2-globulin levels (P < 0.001). The present study suggests a higher inflammatory and oxidative profile in captive BR than in WR, possibly in relation to iron status. This could be either a consequence or a cause of iron accumulation. Further investigations are needed to assess the prognostic value of the inflammatory and oxidative markers in captive black rhinoceroses, particularly for evaluating the impact of reduced-iron and antioxidant-supplemented diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanae Pouillevet
- Oniris Nantes-Atlantic National College of Veterinary Medicine, Nantes, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Nicolas Soetart
- Oniris Nantes-Atlantic National College of Veterinary Medicine, Nantes, France
- LDHVet-LabOniris, Nantes, France
| | - Delphine Boucher
- Oniris Nantes-Atlantic National College of Veterinary Medicine, Nantes, France
- LDHVet-LabOniris, Nantes, France
| | | | - Laetitia Jaillardon
- Oniris Nantes-Atlantic National College of Veterinary Medicine, Nantes, France
- LDHVet-LabOniris, Nantes, France
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CHALLENGES TO ANIMAL WELFARE ASSOCIATED WITH CAPTURE AND LONG ROAD TRANSPORT IN BOMA-ADAPTED BLACK (DICEROS BICORNIS) AND SEMI-CAPTIVE WHITE (CERATOTHERIUM SIMUM) RHINOCEROSES. J Wildl Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.7589/2019-02-045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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15
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Hooijberg EH, Cray C, Steenkamp G, Buss P, Goddard A, Miller M. Assessment of the Acute Phase Response in Healthy and Injured Southern White Rhinoceros (C eratotherium simum simum). Front Vet Sci 2020; 6:475. [PMID: 31998761 PMCID: PMC6962144 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute phase reactants (APRs) have not been investigated in white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). This study aimed to identify clinically useful APRs in this species. Reference intervals (RIs) were generated for albumin, fibrinogen, haptoglobin, iron and serum amyloid A (SAA) from 48 free-ranging animals, except for SAA (n = 23). APR concentrations between healthy animals and those with tissue injury (inflammation) (n = 30) were compared. Diagnostic performance was evaluated using receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) curve and logistic regression analyses. RIs were: albumin 18–31 g/L, fibrinogen 1.7–2.9 g/L, haptoglobin 1.0–4.3 g/L, iron 9.7–35.0 μmol/L, SAA <20 mg/L. Iron and albumin were lower and fibrinogen, haptoglobin and SAA higher in injured vs. healthy animals. Iron showed the best diagnostic accuracy followed by fibrinogen, albumin, haptoglobin and SAA. Iron ≤ 15.1 μmol/L and haptoglobin >4.7 g/L were significant predictors of inflammatory status and together correctly predicted the clinical status of 91% of cases. SAA > 20 mg/L had a specificity of 100%. In conclusion, albumin and iron are negative and fibrinogen, haptoglobin and SAA positive APRs in the white rhinoceros. The combination of iron and haptoglobin had an excellent diagnostic accuracy for detecting inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma H Hooijberg
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies & Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Gerhard Steenkamp
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies & Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Kruger National Park, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies & Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Michele Miller
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science and Technology-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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16
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Kellon EM, Gustafson KM. Possible dysmetabolic hyperferritinemia in hyperinsulinemic horses. Open Vet J 2020; 9:287-293. [PMID: 32042647 PMCID: PMC6971364 DOI: 10.4314/ovj.v9i4.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hyperinsulinemia associated with equine metabolic syndrome and pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction is a risk factor for laminitis. Research in other species has shown elevated body iron levels as both a predictor and consequence of insulin resistance. In humans, this is known as dysmetabolic hyperferritinemia. Aim To explore the relationship between equine hyperinsulinemia and body iron levels. Methods We reviewed case histories and laboratory results from an open access database maintained by the Equine Cushing's and Insulin Resistance Group Inc. (ECIR). We identified 33 horses with confirmed hyperinsulinemia and laboratory results for serum iron, total iron binding capacity, and ferritin. Pearson correlation was used to test the relationship between insulin and iron indices. Additionally, we performed a secondary analysis of a previously reported controlled trial that was originally designed to test the correlation between iron status and the insulin response in horses. Here, we used a t-test to compare the mean values of insulin and ferritin between horses we categorized as normal or hyperinsulinemic based on their response to an oral challenge. Results Serum ferritin exceeded published reference range in 100% of the horses identified from the ECIR database. There were no statistically significant associations between insulin indices (RISQI, log insulin) and iron indices (log serum iron, log TSI%, log ferritin). There were trends for a negative association between RISQI and log iron [r(31) = -0.33, p = 0.058] and a positive association between age and ferritin [r(30) = 0.34, p = 0.054]. From the secondary data analysis of published data, we found significantly elevated ferritin (p = 0.05) in horses considered hyperinsulinemic by dynamic insulin testing compared to horses with a normal response. Conclusion These results suggest the potential for iron overload in hyperinsulinemic horses, a feature documented in other species and should stimulate further study into the relationship between insulin and iron dysregulation in the horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor M. Kellon
- Equine Cushing’s and Insulin Resistance Group, Inc, 2307 Rural Road, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
| | - Kathleen M. Gustafson
- Equine Cushing’s and Insulin Resistance Group, Inc, 2307 Rural Road, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
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Roth TL, Switzer A, Watanabe-Chailland M, Bik EM, Relman DA, Romick-Rosendale LE, Ollberding NJ. Reduced Gut Microbiome Diversity and Metabolome Differences in Rhinoceros Species at Risk for Iron Overload Disorder. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2291. [PMID: 31649637 PMCID: PMC6792462 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron overload disorder (IOD) affects many wildlife species cared for ex situ. Two of the four rhinoceros species in human care, Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) and black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis), are susceptible, whereas the other two, white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) and greater one-horned (GOH) rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), are relatively resistant to IOD. Complex interrelationships exist between mammalian hosts, their indigenous gut microbiota, metabolome, physical condition, and iron availability. The goal of this study was to gain insight into these relationships within the family Rhinocerotidae. Specific objectives were to (1) characterize the gut microbiome and metabolome of four rhinoceros species; (2) compare the microbiome and metabolome of IOD-susceptible and IOD-resistant rhinoceros species; and (3) identify variation in the microbiome and metabolome associated with compromised health or disease in IOD-susceptible rhinoceroses. Fecal samples were collected from 31 rhinoceroses (Sumatran rhinoceros, n = 3; black rhinoceros, n = 6; GOH rhinoceros, n = 9; white rhinoceros, n = 13) located at five facilities, and matched fecal aliquots were processed for microbiome and metabolome analyses using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, respectively. Despite the phylogenetic disparity and dissimilar zoo diets of the hosts, the structure of the fecal microbiota of the two IOD-susceptible rhinoceros species were more closely related to each other than to those of the two IOD-resistant species (Bray–Curtis dissimilarity; IOD-susceptible vs. IOD-resistant p-value < 0.001). In addition, IOD-susceptible rhinoceroses exhibited less microbial diversity than their IOD-resistant relatives (Shannon diversity; p-value < 0.001) which could have health implications. Of note, the black rhinoceros was distinct among the four rhinoceros species with the most divergent fecal metabolome; interestingly, it contained higher concentrations of short chain fatty acids. Neither age nor sex were associated with differences in microbial community composition (p = 0.253 and 0.488, respectively) or fecal metabolomic profile (p = 0.634 and 0.332, respectively). Differences in the distal gut microbiomes between IOD-resistant and IOD-susceptible rhinoceroses support hypotheses that gut microbes play a role in host iron acquisition, and further studies and experiments to test these hypotheses are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri L Roth
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Alexandra Switzer
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Miki Watanabe-Chailland
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Elisabeth M Bik
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - David A Relman
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.,Infectious Diseases Section, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Lindsey E Romick-Rosendale
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Nicholas J Ollberding
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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18
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INVESTIGATION OF FACTORS POTENTIALLY ASSOCIATED WITH SERUM FERRITIN CONCENTRATIONS IN THE BLACK RHINOCEROS ( DICEROS BICORNIS) USING A VALIDATED RHINOCEROS-SPECIFIC ASSAY. J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 49:297-306. [PMID: 29900786 DOI: 10.1638/2017-0131.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron overload disorder (IOD) can lead to organ dysfunction and may exacerbate other diseases in the critically endangered black rhinoceros ( Diceros bicornis). It is important to develop methods for monitoring the progression of iron storage (hemosiderosis), diagnosing the disease, and evaluating treatments in this species. Traditionally, an equine enzyme immunoassay (EIA) was used to measure rhinoceros ferritin, a serum protein correlated to iron stores. The goal of this study was to validate a rhinoceros-specific assay and investigate factors potentially associated with ferritin concentrations in black rhinoceros. A ferritin EIA developed for Sumatran rhinoceros was validated for black rhinoceros via Western blot analysis of liver ferritin and confirmed parallelism of serum samples to the EIA standard curve and used to analyze serum samples ( n = 943) collected from 36 black rhinoceros (<1-33 yr) at 14 U.S. institutions. Mean (±SEM) serum ferritin concentration was 6,738 ± 518 ng/ml (range: 85-168,451 ng/ml). Concentrations differed among individuals with eastern black rhinoceros (7,444 ± 1,130 ng/ml) having a higher mean ferritin than southern black rhinoceros (6,317 ± 505 ng/ml; P < 0.05) and higher mean values in wild-born (11,110 ± 1,111 ng/ml) than captive-born individuals (3,487 ± 293 ng/ml; P < 0.05). Ferritin concentrations did not differ between young rhinoceros (<5 yr old; 2,163 ± 254 ng/ml) and adults (7,623 ± 610 ng/ml) and were not correlated with age ( r = 0.143) or time in captivity ( r = 0.146, wild born; r = 0.104, all animals). Ferritin concentration was not impacted by sex (female: 2,086 ± 190 ng/ml; male: 8,684 ± 717 ng/ml), date, month, or season of collection ( P > 0.05). Data indicate ferritin concentrations are variable and not necessarily associated with IOD; ferritin is not recommended for diagnosing or monitoring IOD in black rhinoceros.
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SERUM FERRITIN CONCENTRATION IS NOT A RELIABLE BIOMARKER OF IRON OVERLOAD DISORDER PROGRESSION OR HEMOCHROMATOSIS IN THE SUMATRAN RHINOCEROS (DICERORHINUS SUMATRENSIS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 48:645-658. [PMID: 28920821 DOI: 10.1638/2017-0010.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine if ferritin is a reliable biomarker of iron overload disorder (IOD) progression and hemochromatosis in the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) by developing a species-specific ferritin assay and testing historically banked samples collected from rhinos that did and did not die of hemochromatosis. Ferritin extracted from Sumatran rhino liver tissue was used to generate antibodies for the Enzyme Immunoassay. Historically banked Sumatran rhino serum samples (n = 298) obtained from six rhinos in US zoos (n = 290); five rhinos at the Sumatran Rhino Conservation Centre in Sungai Dusun, Malaysia (n = 5); and two rhinos in Sabah, Malaysia (n = 3) were analyzed for ferritin concentrations. Across all US zoo samples, serum ferritin concentrations ranged from 348 to 7,071 ng/ml, with individual means ranging from 1,267 (n = 25) to 2,604 ng/ml (n = 36). The ferritin profiles were dynamic, and all rhinos exhibited spikes in ferritin above baseline during the sampling period. The rhino with the highest mean ferritin concentration did not die of hemochromatosis and exhibited only mild hemosiderosis postmortem. A reproductive female exhibited decreases and increases in serum ferritin concurrent with pregnant and nonpregnant states, respectively. Mean (±SD) serum ferritin concentration for Sumatran rhinos in Malaysia was high (4,904 ± 4,828 ng/ml) compared to that for US zoo rhinos (1,835 ± 495 ng/ml). However, those in Sabah had lower ferritin concentrations (1,025 ± 52.7 ng/ml) compared to those in Sungai Dusun (6,456 ± 4,941 ng/ml). In conclusion, Sumatran rhino serum ferritin concentrations are dynamic, and increases often are not associated with illness or hemochromatosis. Neither a specific pattern nor the individual's overall mean ferritin concentration can be used to accurately assess IOD progression or diagnose hemochromatosis in this rhino species.
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR. J Zoo Wildl Med 2018; 49:834-836. [DOI: 10.1638/1042-7260-49.3.834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Affiliation(s)
- Parker M. Pennington
- San Diego Zoo Global; Institute for Conservation Research; 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road Escondido CA 92027 USA
| | - Barbara S. Durrant
- San Diego Zoo Global; Institute for Conservation Research; 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road Escondido CA 92027 USA
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Williams CL, Caraballo-Rodríguez AM, Allaband C, Zarrinpar A, Knight R, Gauglitz JM. Wildlife-microbiome interactions and disease: exploring opportunities for disease mitigation across ecological scales. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ddmod.2019.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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BRIDGING GAPS BETWEEN ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE: ESTABLISHING REFERENCE INTERVALS FOR FREE-RANGING AFRICAN LIONS (PANTHERA LEO). J Zoo Wildl Med 2017; 48:298-311. [PMID: 28749296 DOI: 10.1638/2016-0021r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The International Species Information System has set forth an extensive database of reference intervals for zoologic species, allowing veterinarians and game park officials to distinguish normal health parameters from underlying disease processes in captive wildlife. However, several recent studies comparing reference values from captive and free-ranging animals have found significant variation between populations, necessitating the development of separate reference intervals in free-ranging wildlife to aid in the interpretation of health data. Thus, this study characterizes reference intervals for six biochemical analytes, eleven hematologic or immune parameters, and three hormones using samples from 219 free-ranging African lions ( Panthera leo ) captured in Kruger National Park, South Africa. Using the original sample population, exclusion criteria based on physical examination were applied to yield a final reference population of 52 clinically normal lions. Reference intervals were then generated via 90% confidence intervals on log-transformed data using parametric bootstrapping techniques. In addition to the generation of reference intervals, linear mixed-effect models and generalized linear mixed-effect models were used to model associations of each focal parameter with the following independent variables: age, sex, and body condition score. Age and sex were statistically significant drivers for changes in hepatic enzymes, renal values, hematologic parameters, and leptin, a hormone related to body fat stores. Body condition was positively correlated with changes in monocyte counts. Given the large variation in reference values taken from captive versus free-ranging lions, it is our hope that this study will serve as a baseline for future clinical evaluations and biomedical research targeting free-ranging African lions.
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Eid R, Arab NTT, Greenwood MT. Iron mediated toxicity and programmed cell death: A review and a re-examination of existing paradigms. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2016; 1864:399-430. [PMID: 27939167 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Iron is an essential micronutrient that is problematic for biological systems since it is toxic as it generates free radicals by interconverting between ferrous (Fe2+) and ferric (Fe3+) forms. Additionally, even though iron is abundant, it is largely insoluble so cells must treat biologically available iron as a valuable commodity. Thus elaborate mechanisms have evolved to absorb, re-cycle and store iron while minimizing toxicity. Focusing on rarely encountered situations, most of the existing literature suggests that iron toxicity is common. A more nuanced examination clearly demonstrates that existing regulatory processes are more than adequate to limit the toxicity of iron even in response to iron overload. Only under pathological or artificially harsh situations of exposure to excess iron does it become problematic. Here we review iron metabolism and its toxicity as well as the literature demonstrating that intracellular iron is not toxic but a stress responsive programmed cell death-inducing second messenger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Eid
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nagla T T Arab
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael T Greenwood
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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