Abstract
Copper deficiency was induced in eight male buffalo calves by adding molybdenum (30 ppm wet basis) to their diet. Copper status was monitored from the liver copper concentration and a level below 30 ppm (DM basis) was considered as deficient. Haemoglobin, haematocrit, total and differential leucocyte numbers were determined. The functions of peripheral neutrophils were assessed by in vitro phagocytosis and killing of Staphylococcus aureus. The effect of molybdenum induced copper deficiency on bone marrow was monitored. The mean total leucocyte count was unaffected whereas a significant fall in neutrophil count coincided with the fall in hepatic copper level to 23.9±2.69 ppm. Reduced blood neutrophil numbers was not accompanied by any change in the proportion of different neutrophil precursor cells in bone marrow. It was hypothesised that buffalo calves were more tolerant to dietary molybdenum excess than cattle. It was concluded that neutropenia in molybdenum induced copper deficiency occurred without any effect on their synthesis and maturation process. Bone marrow studies in healthy calves revealed higher percentage of neutrophilic myelocytes and metamyelocytes as compared to cattle. (Asian-Aust. J. Anim. Sci. 2002. Vol 15, No. 4 : 509-515)
Highlights
Neutrophils, macrophages and monocytes play a central role in immune responses against microbial pathogens
Studies suggest that alteration in the functions of neutrophils (Boyne and Arthur, 1981, 1986; Jones and Suttle, 1981; Babu and Failla, 1990b), macrophages (Babu and Failla, 1990a) and lymphocytes (Bala et al, 1991; Cerone et al, 1998) occurred in copper deficiency
In vitro studies have shown that the bactericidal activity of neutrophils and macrophages is decreased in cattle (Jones and Suttle, 1981; Boyne and Arthur, 1986; Xin et al, 1991) and rat (Babu and Failla, 1990a,b)
Summary
Neutrophils, macrophages and monocytes play a central role in immune responses against microbial pathogens. Studies suggest that alteration in the functions of neutrophils (Boyne and Arthur, 1981, 1986; Jones and Suttle, 1981; Babu and Failla, 1990b), macrophages (Babu and Failla, 1990a) and lymphocytes (Bala et al, 1991; Cerone et al, 1998) occurred in copper deficiency. In vitro studies have shown that the bactericidal activity of neutrophils and macrophages is decreased in cattle (Jones and Suttle, 1981; Boyne and Arthur, 1986; Xin et al, 1991) and rat (Babu and Failla, 1990a,b). Increased numbers of monocytes were observed by Cerone et al (1998) whereas Arthington et al (1996a,b)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
