Abstract
Trace elements and potential toxic elements were analyzed in bovine livers submitted for autopsy in the Netherlands during the years 2007 to 2018. The age of each animal was recorded. In total, 1544 livers were analyzed for cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, molybdenum, nickel, lead, selenium and zinc. Less than 2% of the liver samples were from veal calves. Young animals had significantly higher concentrations of iron and zinc in their livers compared to animals older than one year, while older animals had significantly higher levels of cadmium and molybdenum in their livers. Animals aged 1 to 2 years had the lowest copper and selenium levels. There was a tendency for lower chromium and nickel levels during the last years of the testing period, while copper showed an increase. Lead intoxication was only seen in the youngest group of cattle, while copper intoxication, defined as a liver copper of more than 1000 mg/kg dry matter, occurred in older animals, mainly in animals of 3 to 4 years old. This trend analysis of trace elements in bovine livers of cattle over time in recent years, and the relation of liver element concentrations with age of the animal, provides insight in the uptake and storage of these elements by cattle in The Netherlands. Possible reasons for observed trends and age-related patterns are discussed.
Highlights
Trace elements are essential for proper functioning of humans and animals, including cattle, and inadequate intake of these elements are deleterious to health and production potential [1]
We evaluated the concentrations of different trace elements and heavy metals in the livers of cattle based on 6 age groups, and the time period from 2007–2018
Copper and selenium concentrations were correlated. Both elements are relatively low in local forage, and are typically supplemented by farmers and/or feed companies
Summary
Trace elements are essential for proper functioning of humans and animals, including cattle, and inadequate intake of these elements are deleterious to health and production potential [1]. Several elements, including heavy metals and metalloids, are always present in livers and are often essential to health, even though they are toxic at high concentrations. Dysfunction of several organ systems and even mortality due to incorrect amounts of trace elements and / or toxic elements may occur [2]. More than 3000 bovines of all ages are sent to Animal Health Services in Deventer from all regions of The Netherlands for pathological examination.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
