Impact of oxidative stress on the health and immune function of dairy cattle

• Published in: Veterinary immunology and immunopathology Vol. 128; no. 1-3; pp. 104 - 109
• Main Authors: Sordillo, Lorraine M., Aitken, Stacey L.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 15.03.2009; Amsterdam: Elsevier
• Subjects: Animals; Antioxidant; antioxidant activity; Antioxidants; Antioxidants - metabolism; biochemical mechanisms; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Cattle Diseases - immunology; cows; dairy cattle; dairy cows; defense mechanisms; diet therapy; dietary supplements; disease resistance; Disease Susceptibility; Disease Susceptibility - veterinary; Female; health status; human diseases; immune response; immune system; Immunity; immunology; Inflammation; Lactation; leukocytes; literature reviews; metabolism; optimal nutrition; oxidation; Oxidative Stress; Parturition; pathogenesis; periparturient diseases and disorders; Periparturient period; postpartum interval; Reactive oxygen species; tissue degeneration; veterinary; GSSG; Oxidative stress; Reactive oxygen species; Periparturient period; SOD; Inflammation; GR; Antioxidant; Immunity; GPX; Se; LHP; ROS; Trx; GSH; TrxR
• ISSN: 0165-2427; 1873-2534
• DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2008.10.305

Oxidation and the production of free radicals are an integral part of aerobic metabolism. A variety of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced by normal metabolic processes and by certain leukocyte populations during defense against disease. Accumulated scientific evidence supports the concept that oxidative damage of tissues and cellular components are either a primary or secondary cause of many human diseases. Unfortunately, considerably less is known about how oxidative stress can affect veterinary health and well-being, particularly during times of high metabolic activity. The performance of high producing dairy cattle can be optimized to a certain extent by supplementing diets with optimal levels of micronutrients with antioxidant capabilities. However, oxidative stress continues to be a problem in transition cows. Innovative approaches are needed to enhance the antioxidant defense mechanisms of dairy cattle during times of increased metabolic demands.