Effect of Copper Methionine Supplementation on Haemato-Biochemical Profile, Hormones, Serum Copper Status and Immunity in Male Kids

Abstract

Twenty male goat kids (non-descriptive) of 4–5 months age and 10.94±0.35 kg body weight were allocated into four equal groups in a randomized block design and maintained on a diet of concentrate mixture and wheat straw (60: 40). Treatment animals were fed the same diet as in control group (Con) but they were additionally supplemented with 7 ppm Cu as CuSO4 (Cu-Sulf), 7 ppm Cu as Cu-methionine (Cu-Met7) and 3.5 ppm Cu as Cu methionine (Cu-Met3.5) for 120 days. Blood samples were collected at 40 days intervals up to 120 days. Serum protein fractions, urea, creatinine and cholesterol concentrations were similar in all the groups but Hb level improved due to Cu supplementation. Activity of serum enzymes (alanine amino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, alkaline phospatase and super oxide dismutase) and hormones (T3, T4, testosterone and thyroid stimulating hormone) was also similar in all the groups but ceruloplasmin activity was higher (P<0.05) in Cu-Sulf and Cu-Met7 groups. The change in skin fold thickness and humoral immune response were higher (P<0.05) in Cu-Met7 kids as compared to control ones whereas there was no difference in other supplemented groups. Supplementation of Cu had no effect on serum minerals like Ca and P, however, Cu levels were higher (P<0.05) and Fe level lower (P<0.05) in Cu-Met7 group. Thus, supplementation of Cu improved haemoglobin, serum Cu, ceruloplasmin and immunity in the 7 ppm Cu-methionine supplemented goat kids.