Dietary Copper Levels Research Articles

Effect of Dietary Copper on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immunity in Juvenile Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study evaluated the optimal dietary copper (Cu) levels and their effects on growth performance, body composition, and antioxidant capacity in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). A total of 360 fish (initial average weight (1.67 ± 0.01 g) and initial average length (2.5 ± 0.2 cm)) were randomly assigned to 18 tanks, each containing 20 fish and six dietary Cu concentrations: 2.13 (control), 3.00, 3.66, 4.58, 4.64, and 5.72 mg/kg. The results indicated that fish receiving 3.00 mg/kg of Cu exhibited the best final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), and specific growth rate (SGR), with a significantly reduced feed conversion ratio (FCR). While body composition (moisture, protein, lipid, and ash) remained consistent across groups, plasma total protein (TP) levels increased with Cu supplementation. Elevated triglycerides (TG) and albumin (ALB) were noted at 4.64 and 5.72 mg/kg, respectively, while glucose (GLU) levels decreased with an increase in dietary Cu. Antioxidant capacity, assessed via hepatic glutathione (GSH) and the activities of catalase (CAT), and showed significant improvements at 3.00 and 3.66 mg/kg Cu, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) showed the highest activity at a dietary Cu level of 5.72 mg/kg. Additionally, the expressions of tgf-β and tnf-α genes were significantly upregulated at a dietary Cu level of 5.72 mg/kg, while il-8 and il-10 genes were upregulated at dietary 3.66 mg/kg. The expression of nrf2 was significantly upregulated in response to a dietary Cu level of 3.66 mg/kg compared to the control group, and the expression of the keap1 gene was significantly upregulated in the fish fed with 5.72 mg/kg of dietary Cu. The results indicated that appropriate dietary supplementation could promote the growth performance and improve the antioxidant status the immunity of largemouth bass, and the optimal Cu requirement for FCR and SGR were approximately 3.10 mg/kg and 3.00 mg/kg, respectively.

High Iron Consumption Modifies the Hepatic Transcriptome Related to Cholesterol Metabolism.

Iron supplementation is a common method for alleviating symptoms of iron deficiency, but excessive iron intake may lead to systemic copper deficiencies and hypercholesterolemia. In our study, we explored the intricate relationship between dietary iron and copper levels and their impact on cholesterol metabolism. Using a rat model, we conducted dietary interventions with varying iron and copper concentrations and analyzed hepatic transcriptomes. High iron intake coupled with low copper intake induced hypercholesterolemia and altered the expression of genes associated with cholesterol and lipid metabolism, thereby, exacerbating cardiovascular disease risks. Conversely, copper supplementation mitigated these hepatic gene expression alterations, suggesting that dietary copper plays a role in cholesterol regulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes involved in cholesterol synthesis and antioxidative pathways in response to high iron intake, while genes involved in cholesterol elimination were downregulated. Furthermore, high iron consumption was associated with cellular apoptosis and the activation of cholesterol synthesis. Our findings underscore the importance of balanced iron and copper intake in cholesterol homeostasis and highlight the potential of copper supplementation for mitigating iron-induced hypercholesterolemia.

Adequate Levels of Zinc and Copper on Turkey Poult Performance, Immunological Response, and Skeletal Health.

In this study, the impact of varying dietary zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) levels on the growth, immunological response, and skeletal health of developing turkey poults was investigated. For 0-4 and 5-8 weeks of age, respectively, three Zn levels of 50, 70, and 90mg/kg and 45, 65, and 85mg/kg were employed. Three Cu levels, namely 8, 12, and 16mg/kg for 0-8 weeks of age, were also utilized. There were 288 (9 × 4 × 8) day-old turkey poults with equal body weight that were randomly assigned to 9 treatments, each consisting of 4 replicates and 8 poults per replicate. In comparison to other dietary combinations, there was a significant (P ≤ 0.05) increase in body weight gain observed in the 90 and 85mg Zn/kg with 16mg Cu/kg diet during 0-4 and 0-8 weeks of age, respectively, and the 70 and 65mg Zn with 16mg Cu /kg diet during 0-4 and 0-8 weeks of age, respectively. When compared to low levels of zinc in the diet at 5-8 and 0-8 weeks of age, respectively, feed conversion ratio was shown to be significantly (P ≤ 0.01) better with 90 and 85mg Zn/kg diet. In a similar pattern, feed utilization efficiency was considerably (P ≤ 0.01) higher at 16mg Cu/kg diet than it was at lower Cu levels in the diets given to the animals over the 0-4 week period. Compared to other dietary combinations, there was a substantial (P ≤ 0.01) improvement in cell-mediated immune response (foot web index to PHAP) and humoral immune response (HA titer to SRBC) when 85mg zinc and 16mg copper/kg diet was consumed at 0-4 and 5-8 weeks of age. At greater dietary Zn and Cu levels than its lower values, the weight of the spleen and thymus was considerably (P ≤ 0.05) higher. In a dietary combination of 90mg Zn with 16mg Cu/kg during 0-4 and 85mg Zn with 16mg Cu/kg diet during 5-8 weeks of age, respectively, there were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) greater bone width (proximal and distal), tibia bone ash, calcium, and phosphorus detected respectively. Significantly (P ≤ 0.01) greater Zn and Fe contents were found in the tibia bone at 90 and 85mg Zn/kg diet, respectively, compared to values obtained at other Zn levels in the diet throughout 0-4 and 5-8 weeks of age. During the first 8 weeks of life, a diet containing 12mg of copper per kilogram was shown to have a significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased Zn and Fe content in the tibia bone compared to other levels. It is possible to draw the conclusion from the data that, for growing turkey poults, dietary combinations of 90mg Zn/kg with 16mg Cu/kg diet and 85mg Zn with 16mg Cu/kg diet between 0 and 4 and 5-8 weeks of age, respectively, were sufficient for optimum development, immunity, and skeletal health indices.

The Association Between Psoriasis and Trace Element Serum Levels and Dietary Intake: Results from USA National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014.

Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory disease. However, trace elements are essential to biochemical processes of the skin, it is suspected that the trace elements are vital in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Our research is aimed to investigate the association between serum levels and dietary intake levels of selenium, zinc, and copper with psoriasis. In this cross-sectional study, we utilized the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2011 to 2014 to examine the association between psoriasis and serum concentration and dietary intake of trace elements including copper, zinc, and selenium in the US individuals. Our research combined two cycles and weighted the data. Student's t-tests and χ2 test were used. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests were conducted by IBM SPSS Statistics 22 and EmpowerStats. This study indicates that the population with psoriasis has a lower dose of dietary intake selenium than the controls, and risk analysis showed that the men with selenium daily intake >150 mcg/day have a decreasing risk for psoriasis compared to those with daily intaking selenium <75 mcg/day. However, there are no differences on daily intake of selenium, zinc, and copper and serum levels of Zinc and Copper between psoriasis and healthy controls. The current study showed that the psoriasis group was significantly older with a bigger waist circumference, a higher education level, a higher ratio of people with smoke every day, and a higher ratio of people in USA and being non-Hispanic White. This cross-section study showed that a high selenium intake may benefit USA adults from psoriasis, especially for males. The social and cultural background and ethnic differences between the two groups influence the eating and living models, including the trace element intake. The national recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) might be considered to be modified with more reliable investigative clinical data and certain considering the social and cultural models.

Effect of using hydroxychloride as a copper source on performance, eggshell quality, tibia properties, mineral excretion, and antioxidant capacity of yolk in layer quails

Abstract This research aimed to examine the impact of varying levels of dietary copper (Cu) hydroxychloride on the performance, egg quality, yolk antioxidant capacity, tibia traits, and mineral excretion in laying quails. 125 female 10-week-old quails were randomly distributed into five experimental groups with five replicates, each consisting of five quails. Five experimental isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were designed to contain different Cu hydroxychloride (54% Cu) levels at 7.20 (basal diet), 15, 30, 45 and 60 mg/kg respectively. Quails were fed with trial diets for 12 weeks. Performance, egg production, eggshell quality, and biomechanical traits of the tibia were not impacted (P &gt; 0.005) by variations in dietary Cu levels. Yolk antioxidant capacity, measured as yolk DPPH value, exhibited an increase (P &lt; 0.01) in the high-dose group (60 mg/kg). Regarding tibia mineral concentration, Cu concentration decreased linearly (P &lt; 0.001) with increasing Cu level, manganese and zinc content recorded the highest values in quails that had received 60 mg/kg Cu in the diet (P &lt; 0.01), while the lowest phosphorus content was described for 45 and 60 mg/kg. Contrarily, increases (P &lt; 0.01) in dietary Cu resulted in raised faecal Cu content, while phosphorus, manganese, and zinc, were reduced when Cu was added. It can be inferred that adding Cu to the diet of laying quails would not be necessary, which in turn decreases Cu excretion and prevents substantial environmental harm.

The Effect of an Elevated Dietary Copper Level on the Vascular Contractility and Oxidative Stress in Middle-Aged Rats.

Copper (Cu), being an essential mineral, plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological homeostasis across multiple bodily systems, notably the cardiovascular system. However, an increased Cu level in the body may cause blood vessel dysfunction and oxidative stress, which is unfavorable for the cardiovascular system. Middle-aged (7-8 months old) male Wistar rats (n/group = 12) received a diet supplemented with 6.45 mg Cu/kg (100% of the recommended daily dietary quantity of copper) for 8 weeks (Group A). The experimental group received 12.9 mg Cu/kg of diet (200%-Group B). An ex vivo study revealed that supplementation with 200% Cu decreased the contraction of isolated aortic rings to noradrenaline (0.7-fold) through FP receptor modulation. Vasodilation to sodium nitroprusside (1.10-fold) and acetylcholine (1.13-fold) was potentiated due to the increased net effect of prostacyclin derived from cyclooxygenase-1. Nitric oxide (NO, 2.08-fold), superoxide anion (O2•-, 1.5-fold), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 2.33-fold) measured in the aortic rings increased. Blood serum antioxidant status (TAS, 1.6-fold), Cu (1.2-fold), Zn (1.1-fold), and the Cu/Zn ratio (1.4-fold) increased. An increase in Cu (1.12-fold) and the Cu/Zn ratio (1.09-fold) was also seen in the rats' livers. Meanwhile, cyclooxygenase-1 (0.7-fold), cyclooxygenase-2 (0.4-fold) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (0.5-fold) decreased. Moreover, a negative correlation between Cu and Zn was found (r = -0.80) in rat serum. Supplementation with 200% Cu did not modify the isolated heart functioning. No significant difference was found in the body weight, fat/lean body ratio, and organ weight for either the heart or liver, spleen, kidney, and brain. Neither Fe nor Se, the Cu/Se ratio, the Se/Zn ratio (in serum and liver), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), or intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (iCAM-1) (in serum) were modified. Supplementation with 200% of Cu potentiated pro-oxidant status and modified vascular contractility in middle-aged rats.

Dietary copper levels affect mineral absorbability, rumen microbial composition and metabolites of the grazing Mongolian sheep

Copper (Cu) is a critical limiting factor in grazing livestock production in Inner Mongolia. This study investigated the effects of Cu-deficient and Cu-supplemented diets on production metrics, nutrient digestion and absorption, ruminal microbiota, and metabolites in grazing Mongolian sheep. A total of 28 individually-housed Mongolian sheep were randomly assigned to a Cu-deficient feeding group (LCu) and a Cu-deficient feeding control group (LCG), supplemented with a multi-nutrient salt containing 0 mg Cu and 14.3 mg Cu, respectively, for 53 continuous days. Following this, a 7-day digestion test was conducted, after which seven sheep from each group were randomly slaughtered. The remaining sheep in LCu and LCG transitioned to a Cu-supplemented feeding group (SCu) and a Cu-supplemented feeding control group (SCG), receiving multi-nutrient salts with 43.0 mg Cu and 14.3 mg Cu, respectively. This phase entailed a 34-day diet acclimatization period, a 7-day digestion test, and eventual slaughter. The LCu diet significantly decreased the ruminal Cu and sulfur (S) content, as well as Cu apparent absorbability, compared to the LCG group (P<0.05). Conversely, SCu significantly increased the ruminal Cu content and the apparent absorbability of phosphorus (P), S, potassium (K), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), Cu and zinc (Zn) compared to the SCG group (P<0.05). Amplicon sequencing analysis revealed a significant downregulation of Alistipes and Barnesiella (P<0.05) in the LCu group. Metabolomic analyses supported an elevation in ruminal citrulline and L-ornithine levels, affecting amino acid metabolic pathways in the LCu group (P<0.05). In the SCu group, there was a significant increase in the relative abundance of Saccharofermentans and Ruminococcus (P<0.05), with metabolomic analysis revealed elevated levels of nucleic acid and purine analog affecting purine metabolic pathways (P<0.05). Notably, neither treatment had a significant impact production metrics, rumen fermentation parameters, or the apparent digestibility of crude protein, acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fiber (P>0.05). In conclusion, a Cu-deficient diet impairs Cu absorption and nutrient catabolism in grazing Mongolian sheep, while Cu supplementation effectively alleviated these deficiencies and enhances the absorption of various minerals.

High-iron consumption decreases copper accumulation and colon length, and alters serum lipids

In this study, we aimed to demonstrate that a significant increase in dietary iron intake disrupts the regulation of copper availability, ultimately leading to systemic copper deficiency. To investigate this, we conducted experiments using five-week-old male weanling Sprague–Dawley rats fed diets based on AIN-93G with some modifications. These diets featured varying iron content, offering choices of adequate iron (~ 120 μg/g, near the upper limit [UL]) or high iron (~ 7544 μg/g), along with low (~ 0.3 μg/g), adequate (~ 6 μg/g), or high (~ 153 μg/g) levels of dietary copper over a 5-week period. Rats consuming the high-iron diets displayed anemia, reduced copper levels in their organs and feces, and shortened colon lengths. Increased dietary iron intake resulted in an overall reduction in copper distribution within the body, likely leading to severe copper deficiency-related disorders in the experimental rats. However, the physiological disturbances caused by a high-iron diet were prevented when additional copper was included in the rodent diet. Furthermore, high iron intake led to copper deprivation, and high iron consumption resulted in elevated serum cholesterol levels. However, increasing dietary copper consumption led to a decrease in overall serum cholesterol levels. Additionally, serum alkaline phosphate and aspartate aminotransferase levels were increased by high-iron feeding, regardless of dietary copper concentration, while alanine aminotransferase levels decreased.

Impact of dietary zinc and copper levels on ileal and total apparent nutrient digestibility in growing pigs

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) levels on their apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and total tract digestibility (ATTD) and that of calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), phosphorus (P), and fiber in pigs. The experiment was carried out with six individuals fitted with a T-cannula. Pigs received one of four diets with two levels of Zn (100 [low] and 500 [high] mg/kg) and Cu (40 [low] and 80 [high] mg/kg). High Zn increased AID of Zn and Mn, but decreased that of Ca ( p &lt; 0.05). High Cu tended to improve AID of Cu, but only when high Zn was used (Interaction Zn × Cu, p = 0.051). ATTD of Zn, Cu, Mn, and P was greater in high Zn ( p &lt; 0.05). High Cu also increased ATTD of Cu, but reduced that of Ca ( p &lt; 0.05) as it likely did for ATTD of P in low Zn (Interaction Zn × Cu, p = 0.065). There was an improving trend for ATTD of NDF (Interaction Zn × Cu, p = 0.069), and ATTD of ADF was increased with a combination of high Zn and high Cu (Interaction Zn × Cu, p &lt; 0.05). This research showed that the levels of Cu and Zn modified the digestibility of minerals but also the degradability of fiber.

286 The Effect of Dietary Copper Levels and Source on the Performance and Profitability of Finishing Pigs

Abstract The micronutrient copper (Cu) is known to improve performance variables and the overall health of livestock animals. Different responses have been reported based on the molecular form of Cu and the inclusion level supplemented to growing pigs. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate four inclusion levels (25 ppm, 75 ppm, 125 ppm, 175 ppm) of CuSO4 and two Cu sources tribasic Cu chloride and organic Cu, in performance variables and economics of production of pigs during the grower-finisher phases. This trial was conducted at the Baynesfield Swine Research Unit at Baynsefield Estate in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, following local farm protocols. A total of 528 animals (70 d of age; Initial BW of 33.1 ± 0.31 kg; TN 70 Topig Genetics) were randomly allotted to 48 mixed sex pens, with 11 pigs/pen. The treatments were as follow: TRT1 25 ppm CuSO4, TRT2 75 ppm CuSO4, TRT3 125 ppm CuSO4, TRT4 175 CuSO4, TRT5 hydroxy Cu, and TRT6 organic Cu. Each treatment had 8 repetitions with an equal number of boars and gilts (44). A four-phase corn and soy-based diet were formulated on the same specs having the premixes altered to accommodate the four Cu levels and/or Cu sources. Experimental animals had ad libitum access to feed and water. Feed intake and body weight were measured at every phase change. Additionally, the carcass variables (lean meat %, grading, cold carcass weight, and dressing%) were measured at slaughter. Feed cost, carcass value, MOFC, and cost per gain were calculated to determine economic value for each treatment. Statistical analysis was conducted in SAS (2021) utilizing the Proc GLM model for the average effects within each period, and if significant (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the Fisher’s test was used for LSMeans. There were no significant differences between the dietary treatments for BW, ADFI, ADG, FCR, or yield (Table 1). However, cost over feed was greater for the TRT6 fed pigs compared with either the TRT2 or TRT3 treatments but similar to the other treatments (P &amp;lt; 0.05). But when considering margin over feed, there were no significant differences amongst the treatments. In conclusion, this trial did not demonstrate an economic advantage of feeding copper greater than 75 ppm or utilizing alternative forms of copper.

Effects of dietary copper (Cu) on growth performance, body composition, mineral content, hepatic histology and Cu transport of the GIFT strain of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

This study determined the influence of dietary copper (Cu) levels on growth and feed utilization, body composition, mineral content, liver histology and intestinal Cu transport, and identify dietary Cu requirement of the GIFT strain of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Six diets were prepared with Cu sulfate addition at levels of 0 (control), 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg, respectively. Analytical dietary Cu contents were 1.55, 2.97, 4.51, 7.25, 11.30, and 19.24 mg Cu/kg diet, respectively. Each experimental diet was fed to three replicates of GIFT tilapia (25 fish per tank, initial body weight 4.34 ± 0.01 g) in a recirculating freshwater system for eight weeks. GIFT tilapia fed 4.51 mg Cu/kg diet had higher growth performance and feed utilization. Cu contents in the whole-body, the liver and intestinal tract increased with dietary Cu levels. Moreover, dietary Cu addition also affected whole-body Mg content significantly, but did not affect whole body crude protein, lipid, zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and calcium (Ca) content. GIFT tilapia fed with 4.51 mg Cu/kg diet had lower liver vacuoles relative area. Furthermore, dietary Cu addition also significantly influenced mRNA expression of genes involved in intestinal Cu transport, such as copper transporter 1 (ctr1), copper transporter 2 (ctr2), antioxidant 1 copper chaperone (atox1), cytochrome c oxidase copper chaperone (cox17) and copper-transporting ATPase alpha (atp7a). The regression analysis of weight gain and whole-body Cu retention against the dietary Cu levels suggested that 4.23 to 4.57 mg Cu/kg diet was optimal for GIFT tilapia. Statement of relevanceOur study determined the optimal dietary Cu requirement of GIFT strain of tilapia, which provided good references for dietary Cu addition for the fish species, and accordingly was helpful for its feed formulation and aquaculture production. Our study also demonstrated that dietary Cu addition influenced mRNA expression of genes involved in Cu transport, which provides a good basis for exploring Cu metabolism in fish.

Effects of the dietary supplementation of copper on growth, oxidative stress, fatty acid profile and skeletal development in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) larvae

The effect of dietary copper (Cu) levels on growth, oxidative stress, fatty acid profile and bone health of gilthead seabream larvae (Sparus aurata) was studied in 47 days-post-hatching fish fed 4 experimental diets containing 17, 18, 19 and 25 mg Cu/kg diet. After 21 days of feeding, larval growth and survival were not affected by the dietary Cu levels. However, larvae fed the non-supplemented diet (17 mg Cu/kg) showed clear symptoms of Cu deficiency, including increased lipid peroxidation and reduced bone mineralization. Increased peroxidation risk caused a reduction in essential fatty acids and n-3 PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acids) contents in whole body lipids, whereas the poor vertebral body mineralization in seabream larvae was related to a marked increase in abdominal vertebrae anomalies. On the contrary, dietary Cu supplementation raised whole-body contents in DHA, EPA and n-3 PUFA and reduced MUFA, TBARS and the incidence of severe, cranial, branchiostegal rays and abdominal vertebral anomalies. Polynomial regression models applied to all these parameters suggested optimum dietary Cu levels to be 21.5–22.6 mg/kg in gilthead seabream larvae microdiets supplemented with CuSO4.5H2O. These levels (21.5–22.6 mg/kg) are in the range of the Cu contents in copepods (12–38 mg/kg) and on the verge of the dietary levels authorized by EU Commission in feeds for cultured fish species (25 mg Cu/kg diet).

Dietary Intake Levels of Iron, Copper, Zinc, and Manganese in Relation to Cognitive Function: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Previous studies have related circulating levels of trace metal elements, of which dietary intake is the major source, to cognitive outcomes. However, there are still relatively few studies evaluating the associations of dietary intake levels of iron, copper, zinc, and manganese with cognitive function (CF). Methods: We leveraged the data of 6863 participants (mean [standard deviation] age = 66.7 [10.5] years) in the Health and Retirement Study (2013/2014). Dietary intake levels of iron, copper, zinc, and manganese were calculated from a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. CF was assessed using the 27-point modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS). We used linear regression models to calculate the mean differences in global CF scores by quintiles of dietary intake levels of trace metal elements. Results: Among the study participants, the mean (SD) values of daily dietary intake were 13.3 (6.3) mg for iron, 1.4 (0.7) mg for copper, 10.7 (4.6) mg for zinc, and 3.3 (1.6) mg for manganese. Compared with the lowest quintile of dietary iron intake (<8.1 mg), the highest quintile (≥17.7 mg) was associated with a lower cognitive score (-0.50, -0.94 to -0.06, P-trend = 0.007). Higher dietary copper was significantly associated with poorer CF (P-trend = 0.002), and the mean difference in cognitive score between extreme quintiles (≥1.8 vs. <0.8 mg) was -0.52 (95% confidence interval: -0.94 to -0.10) points. We did not observe significant associations for dietary intake of zinc (P-trend = 0.785) and manganese (P-trend = 0.368). Conclusion: In this cross-sectional study, higher dietary intake of iron and copper was related to worse CF, but zinc and manganese intake levels were not significantly associated with CF.

Ionomics-metabolome association analysis as a new approach to the impact of dietary copper levels in suckling piglets model

Ionomics-metabolomics association analysis is a novel method to elucidating the potential mechanisms underlying the effects of dietary copper on the overall health parameters of suckling piglets model. Few studies have elucidated the relationship between the changes of ionic and metabolic homeostasis responses to dietary copper level. The growth performance data was obtained from 180 suckling piglets which access to different copper levels: 6 (low copper diet, LC), 20 (control diet, CON), and 300 (high copper diet, HC) mg·kg−1 copper (based on diet, supplementation from CuSO4), and offered ad libitum from d 14 until weaning at 40 d of age. Dietary high level copper (300 mg·kg−1) increased the ADG and ADFI during d 14 to 28 of piglets. Six elements (Mg, Na, K, P, Cu, and Mn) concentrations significantly changes in hair among the three treatment diets. The significant increased concentrations of Na and K, and decreased concentration of Mg and Mn in 300 mg·kg−1 than 20 mg·kg−1 copper diet was observed. In current study, with the increase in copper level from 20 to 300 mg·kg−1 in diet, the correlation between hair Na, K and Cu, Mn, Zn vanish. Hair Na and K were positively correlated with serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and negatively correlated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The hair Cu was negatively correlated with serum malondialdehyde (MDA), total bile acid (TBA). The fecal Cu was positively correlated with serum growth hormone (GH). The results suggested that the average daily gain (ADG) in 6 mg·kg−1 copper diet and the average daily feed intake (ADFI) in 20 mg·kg−1 copper diet were decreased than 300 mg·kg−1 copper diet during d 14 to 28 and the ADG was decreased in 6 and 20 mg·kg−1 copper diets in d 29 to 40 of piglets. Dietary 20 mg·kg−1 copper maintain ion homeostasis due to increase the number of positive correlations between macroelements-microelements in hair and serum. Significantly changed Na, K, Mg, Mn and Cu concentrations in hair can reflect the adverse effects of dietary 300 mg·kg−1 copper of suckling piglets. We believe our results may benefit people to gain a better understanding of the ion interactions and metabolic homeostasis of heavy metal elements that are critical to human and animal health.

Spontaneous fractures and hypocuprosis in pen-backgrounded Holstein calves

Bone fractures are a frequent cause of limp in cattle, being pre-existing bone lesions among the predisposing factors. However, there is scant information about the natural occurrence of bone disease. This report aimed to describe an outbreak of spontaneous fractures associated with hypocuprosis in pen-backgrounded calves. Hind limp and irreversible recumbency were noticed in 9-month-old calves of a dairy farm from Córdoba province (Argentina). The issue was only evident in males fed a diet composed (DM) of 57% wet corn, 24% dry corn distiller grains, and 19% corn silage. No mineral mix was supplied. Accumulated morbidity and fatality rates were 5.8 and 100%, respectively. Two autopsies were performed, observing multiple femoral and rib fractures. Severe hypocupremia, very low copper levels in the liver and plasma, deficient dietary copper levels, normocalcemia, marginal hypophosphatemia, and high sulfate concentrations in the water supply were determined. Except for the decreased bone quantity and the multiple fractures, no bone lesion was observed, confirming osteoporosis as the pathological diagnosis, and hypocuprosis as the etiology.

Effect of Source and Level of Dietary Supplementary Copper on In Vitro Rumen Fermentation in Growing Yaks

Copper (Cu) is essential for the health of livestock, however, the optimal source and level of dietary Cu for yaks are uncertain. To fill this important gap, we designed an in vitro study to examine the effects of three Cu sources, namely Cu methionine (Met-Cu), Cu chloride (CuCl2) and tribasic Cu chloride (TBCC), at five levels, namely 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 mg/kg DM (includes Cu in substrate), on rumen fermentation in yaks. In vitro dry matter degradability (IVDMD) and amylase activity were greater (p &lt; 0.05) with added Met-Cu than the other two Cu sources, and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), microbial protein (MCP) and propionate contents were greater with Met-Cu and CuCl2 than with TBCC. Total gas production and lipase activity were greater with Met-Cu and TBCC than CuCl2 (p &lt; 0.05), which meant that the metabolizable energy yield was greater in the two former Cu sources than the latter, but CH4 production did not differ (p = 0.92) among Cu sources. IVDMD and lipase activity were greatest (p &lt; 0.05) at 15 mg Cu/kg DM in the substrate and MCP, isobutyrate, butyrate and isovalerate contents, and amylase and trypsin activities were greatest or second greatest at 10 and 15 mg Cu/kg DM. It was concluded that Met-Cu was the best source of Cu and 10 to 15 mg Cu/kg DM was the optimal level for yaks, at least under in vitro conditions.

Organic copper promoted copper accumulation and transport, enhanced low temperature tolerance and physiological health of white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei Boone, 1931)

This study was conducted to assess the effects of dietary copper source and level on hematological parameters, copper accumulation and transport, resistance to low temperature, antioxidant capacity and immune response of white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei Boone, 1931). Seven experimental diets with different copper sources and levels were formulated: C, no copper supplementation; S, 30 mg/kg copper in the form of CuSO4·5H2O; SO, 15 mg/kg copper in CuSO4·5H2O + 7.5 mg/kg copper in Cu-proteinate; O1, O2, O3 and O4, 10, 20, 30 and 40 mg/kg copper in the form of Cu-proteinate, respectively. A total of 840 shrimp (5.30 ± 0.04 g) were randomly distributed to 21 tanks (3 tanks/diet, 40 shrimp/tank). An 8-week feeding trial was conducted. The results showed that there was no significant difference in growth performance and whole shrimp chemical compositions among all groups. Compared with inorganic copper, dietary organic copper (O2 and O3) increased total protein, albumin, and glucose content of plasma, while decreased triglyceride and total cholesterol of plasma. Copper concentration in plasma and muscle and gene expression of metallothionein and copper-transporting ATPase 2 like in hepatopancreas were higher in shrimp fed organic copper (SO, O2, O3 and O4). The lowest mortality after low temperature (10 °C) challenge test was observed in the O2 and O3 groups. Organic copper (SO, O2, O3 and O4) significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity (in terms of higher activities of total superoxide dismutase, copper zinc superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity, lower malondialdehyde concentration of plasma, and up-regulated gene expression of superoxide dismutase, copper zinc superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase of hepatopancreas). Organic copper (SO, O2, O3 and O4) enhanced the immune response (in terms of higher number of total hemocytes, higher activities of acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, phenoloxidase, hemocyanin and lysozyme in plasma, and higher gene expressions of alkaline phosphatase, lysozyme and hemocyanin in hepatopancreas). Inorganic copper (Diet S) also had positive effects on white shrimp compared with the C diet, but the SO, O2, O3 and O4 diets resulted in better results, among which the O2 diet appeared to be the best one. In conclusion, organic copper was more beneficial to shrimp health than copper sulfate.

Associations of Dietary and Plasma Copper Levels with Liver Function in a Chinese Population.

The potential mechanisms underlying the association between copper (Cu) exposure and impaired liver function are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential associations of dietary Cu intake and plasma Cu levels with liver function biomarkers. A cross-sectional study was performed to assess liver function biomarkers-namely, levels of total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), indirect bilirubin (IBIL), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST)-in 2376 subjects in Guangxi, China. Dietary Cu intake was determined from a food frequency questionnaire containing 109 common foods. Plasma Cu concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma‒mass spectrometry. Multiple linear regression and multivariate restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to evaluate the correlations of plasma Cu levels and dietary Cu levels with liver function biomarkers. The covariate-adjusted results of the linear regression analysis showed that plasma Cu levels were significantly negatively correlated with serum IBIL (β = - 0.37), DBIL (β = - 0.22), and TBIL levels (β = - 0.32) (all p < 0.05), and dietary Cu was negatively correlated with serum AST levels (β = - 0.12, p < 0.05). The RCS analysis further indicated a negative linear relationship between dietary Cu levels and AST levels. In summary, our results suggested that the plasma Cu level is associated with serum bilirubin levels and that dietary Cu intake is associated with serum AST levels. Further studies are needed to validate these associations and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

The Effect of Organic Copper Levels in Breeding Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix Japonica) Diets on Performance, Egg Quality, Incubation Parameters and Blood Parameters

This study was conducted to determine the effect of different levels of organic copper (organic Cu) supplementation on performance, egg quality, serum parameters and incubation characteristics in Japanese quail diets. 120 Japanese breeder quails of 7 weeks old were used in the study and lasted 84 days. Four diets containing different levels of organic copper (0, 75, 150 and 225 mg/kg) were used in the study. The study was a random design consisting of 20 subgroups with 5 replicates, and 4 females and 2 males were used in each subgroup. As a result of this study, final body weight and body weight gain in Japanese quails was significantly lower in the 75 and 150 mg/kg organic copper groups than in the groups containing 0 and 225 mg/kg copper (p&lt;0.01; p&lt;0.05). Egg production, egg weight, egg mass, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not affected by dietary copper levels (p&gt;0.05). Eggshell thickness and eggshell ratio were significantly higher in the groups containing 150 and 225 mg/kg organic copper than the control and 75 mg/kg organic copper groups (p&lt;0.05). Serum cholesterol level was significantly lower in 75 and 150 mg/kg copper groups compared to other groups (p&lt;0.05). Serum albumin, globulin and total protein levels were significantly lower in the 75 and 150 mg/kg copper groups compared to the control group (p&lt;0.01). Serum albumin and total protein concentrations were significantly higher in the 75 and 150 mg/kg copper groups than the other groups (p&lt;0.01). The highest serum calcium (Ca) level was in the group containing 225 mg/kg copper (p&lt;0.01). In the study, incubation parameters were not significantly affected by different copper levels in the diet. The results of the study showed that adding 150 mg/kg of organic Cu to quail diets can be effective in improving eggshell quality.

Effects of dietary copper sources and levels on growth performance, copper digestibility, fecal and serum mineral characteristics in growing pigs.

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of three different copper (Cu) sources (one inorganic and two organics) and levels (0, 50, and 100 mg/kg) on the growth performance, Cu digestibility, fecal mineral excretion, serum mineral concentration, jejunal morphology, and serum biochemical profile of growing pigs. A total of 42 male, growing pigs (31.08 ± 1.82 kg) were randomly assigned to seven treatments consisting of one negative control (0 mg/kg of added Cu level) and treatments with copper sulfate (CuSO4), Cu-amino acid complex (CuAA), and Cu-hydroxy-4-methylthio butanoate chelate complex (CuHMB) at 50 and 100 mg/kg each for 28 d. Pigs fed 50 or 100 mg/kg of Cu showed improved (p < 0.05) average daily gain and feed intake. Although Cu excretion decreased (p < 0.01) in pigs fed 100 mg/kg of organic Cu sources compared to those fed CuSO4, there was no difference between the Cu sources in pigs fed 50 mg/kg. However, the apparent total tract digestibility of Cu increased (p < 0.01) in pigs fed organic Cu sources compared with that in pigs fed CuSO4. The addition of CuHMB increased (p < 0.01) serum phosphorus and sulfur concentrations; however, there were no effects of source and level on jejunal morphology and serum biochemical profile. These results suggest that the inclusion (50 mg/kg) of organic Cu sources (CuAA and CuHMB) in the growing pig diet could be beneficial for growth performance and Cu availability and may reduce environmental pollution.