Discussion of the biochemical mechanisms of copper deficiency in Karakul sheep bred in the Hungry Steppe and its prevention

Abstract

Based on the literature data and the results of our own research, the article provides a detailed discussion of the mechanisms of occurrence, development and deepening of copper metabolism in Karakul sheep grazing in the biogeochemical province of the Hungry Steppe of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Studies have established correlations between the copper content in the liver and blood, between the copper content in the blood and the activity of copper-containing blood enzymes, between the copper content in the blood and the activity of copper-containing liver enzymes, between the activity of copper-containing enzymes in the blood and liver. Based on the use of these correlations, a convenient test has been developed, using which it is possible to establish the supply of the organism of Karakul sheep with copper, bred in the conditions of the Hungry Steppe. As a result of testing this test technique, a flock of sheep of 465 heads was examined and 76 (16.34%) heads with copper deficiency were identified, of which 8 (1.72%) had clear signs of endemic ataxia. Subsequently, these animals were fed with copper sulfate in the form of a salt mixture mixed with table salt, and their complete recovery was achieved.