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Acute phase proteins in cattle after exposure to complex stress
S R Lomborg1, L R Nielsen, P M H Heegaard
1Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegaardsvej 8, DK-1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
Stressors increase acute phase proteins (APP) in calves. In adult cattle, serum amyloid A (SAA) and haptoglobin levels significantly rose after transportation, indicating they may serve as stress markers.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Physiology
- Stress Biomarkers
Background:
- Acute phase proteins (APP), such as serum amyloid A (SAA) and haptoglobin, are known indicators of stress in young cattle.
- Previous research has established a link between stressors and elevated APP levels in calves.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether SAA and haptoglobin concentrations in adult cattle reflect physiological stress.
- To determine the utility of SAA and haptoglobin as stress indicators in adult cattle.
Main Methods:
- Six Holstein cows and two heifers were subjected to a four to six-hour transportation stressor.
- Blood samples were collected pre-transportation and at 8, 24, and 48 hours post-transportation.
- Leukocyte counts, serum SAA, and haptoglobin concentrations were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Serum SAA and haptoglobin concentrations showed significant increases at 48 hours post-transportation (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively).
- Animals exhibited transient neutrophilia at 8 and 24 hours post-transportation (P < 0.05).
- Observed behavioral indicators of anxiety and difficulty coping with isolation and handling.
Conclusions:
- SAA and haptoglobin show potential as reliable biomarkers for detecting stress in adult cattle.
- Transportation and associated stressors induce a measurable acute phase response in adult cattle.
- These findings support the use of SAA and haptoglobin for monitoring animal welfare and stress levels in adult cattle.
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