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Published on: May 2, 2019
Field study on nematode resistance in Nelore-breed cattle
P A Bricarello1, L G Zaros, L L Coutinho
1UNESP, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Biociências, Caixa Postal 510, Botucatu, CEP 18618-000, SP, Brazil. bricarellopa@yahoo.com.br
Veterinary Parasitology
|July 31, 2007
Summary
This study found that Nelore cattle resistant to gastrointestinal nematodes had lower fecal egg counts and worm burdens. Higher total serum IgE levels were observed in resistant cattle, suggesting IgE as a potential marker for selecting resistant animals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Animal Immunology
- Livestock Science
Background:
- Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) cause significant economic losses in cattle production.
- Nelore cattle are susceptible to GIN infections, necessitating strategies for resistance.
- Understanding host resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective control measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Nelore cattle with varying resistance levels to natural GIN infections.
- To identify immunological and parasitological markers associated with GIN resistance.
- To explore the role of serum IgE in nematode immunity in Nelore cattle.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of 100 Nelore cattle for natural GIN infections over five months.
- Collection of fecal and blood samples for parasitological, hematological, and immunological analyses.
- Selection of most resistant and susceptible animals for slaughter to determine worm burden and species identification.
Main Results:
- Resistant cattle exhibited significantly lower fecal egg counts (FEC) and worm burdens compared to susceptible cattle.
- Higher total serum IgE levels were detected in resistant cattle.
- A positive correlation (0.64) was found between Cooperia punctata and Haemonchus placei burdens.
Conclusions:
- Total serum IgE levels may serve as a valuable marker for selecting Nelore cattle with enhanced resistance to H. placei and C. punctata.
- The study reinforces the role of IgE in mediating immunity against nematode infections in cattle.
- Selective breeding based on IgE levels could improve parasite resistance in Nelore cattle populations.
