Antioxidant dynamics and mRNA abundance alterations in dromedary camels during the transition period

Dromedary camels thrive in arid regions and play a crucial role in meat, milk, and labor production. The transition period around parturition impacts maternal and neonatal health by altering antioxidant capacity and increasing oxidative stress. This study investigated the relationship between the transition period and antioxidant capacity in dromedary camels to enhance management practices and welfare. Ten multiparous pregnant camels were monitored from 60 days AP to 60 days PP under ethical guidelines with proper feeding and management. Blood samples and liver biopsies were collected to assess antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, GPx), oxidized product (MDA), and hepatic gene expression via ELISA and qPCR. Statistical analyses in SAS determined time effects, with significance set at P < 0.05. Parturition significantly affected CAT, MDA, and GPx concentrations (P < 0.01). CAT peaked three days AP before declining PP, while MDA spiked at parturition. SOD decreased AP but returned to baseline PP, whereas GPx dropped significantly by seven days PP. Antioxidant-related gene expression increased significantly around parturition, while TNF-α and IL-6 remained stable. PP, some genes returned to AP levels, while others exhibited delayed recovery. This study highlights the liver's key role in regulating oxidative stress during the transition period and provides insights into improving camel health and productivity in harsh environments. These findings pave the way for future research on nutritional and management strategies to strengthen antioxidant defenses in livestock.