Evaluation of Oxidant/Antioxidant Markers, Cytokines, DNA Damage and Trace Mineral Levels in Goats Naturally Single and Co-Infected with Theileria Ovis and Anaplasma Ovis

Abstract

The impact of co-infections with Theileria ovis and Anaplasma ovis on caprine health is very limited knowledge and is rarely documented in the literature. Türkiye is endemic for tick-borne diseases (TBDs), posing a risk of co-infections in goats. To evaluate the impact of single and co-infection with T. ovis and A. ovis on caprine health, four groups of goats were examined: healthy goats, goats infected with T. ovis, goats infected with A. ovis and goats co-infected with both species. Sera from blood samples was tested for oxidant/antioxidant markers [malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST)], cytokines [interleukins (IL)-6, IL-1, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)], DNA damage [8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)] and trace minerals [(copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se)]. MDA, 8-OHdG, TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6 levels, CAT and GST enzyme activities were found to be significantly increased in both Theileria ovis and Anaplasma ovis single- and co-infections (P<0.05). In goats, single and co-infected with A. ovis showed a statistically significant increase in SOD enzyme activity compared to goats infected only with T. ovis (P<0.05). In goats co-infected with A. ovis and T. ovis, considerable decrease in GPx enzyme activity were observed (P<0.05). Zn and Se levels in single infected with A. ovis indicated a significant decrease. Also, Cu, Zn, and Se levels in co-infected animals decreased significantly (P<0.05). Significant increase in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activity in goats with single and double infections indicates impaired erythrocyte membrane integrity due to oxidative stress. Moreover, increased proinflammatory cytokine concentrations in all groups indicate that a high degree of systemic inflammation is induced during parasitaemia. © 2024 Alexandria University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. All rights reserved.