Evaluation of acute phase proteins, hormonal changes and gene expression of immunological, metabolic and reproductive markers in she camel during the transition period

Abstract

To explore gene expression and serum profile of acute phase proteins (APPs) and hormones during transition period in dromedary camels, blood samples were collected from twenty apparently healthy pregnant female at−21, 0, and+ 21 days of expected date of delivery. Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4), Beta defensin 5 (BDEF5), Toll like receptor 6 (TLR6), interlukin 2 (IL2), IL6 and IL8 markers showed down-regulation at 0 day, whereas an opposite trend was noted for Estrogen receptor (ESR) and Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StaR). A significant up-regulation of progesterone receptor (PR) and aromatase gene was also reported at −21 and + 21, respectively. A significant up-regulation of Iodothyronine Deiodinase 3 (DIO3) genes reported at −21 followed by 0 and + 21 days; however mRNA level of Acetyl CoA Carboxylase Alpha (ACACA) elicited an opposite trend. Our findings revealed a significant (p = 0.001) high values of haptoglobin (Hp) at 0 and + 21 day while the concentration of ceruloplasmin increased significantly (P = 0.001) at −21 day. Serum amyloid A (SAA), fibrinogen, cortisol and estrogen level increased significantly (P = 0.003) at 0 day then decreased at + 21 day. Serum level of progesterone decreased significantly (P = 0.001) at the 0 day, although serum concentration of T3 and T4 increased significantly (P = 0.001) at + 21 days. Significant changes in the levels of APPs, hormones may be a biomarker that aids in female camel health monitoring during the periparturient phase in order to reduce the frequency, severity of illnesses and, as a result, to establish selection-effective management strategy by studying the animal adaptation to harsh conditions through genetic selection which is strengthened by identifying differences in the expression levels of regulatory genes. These genes could be used to create adaptable animals that can reproduce in harsh environments without suffering large losses.