Alterations in Erythrocyte Osmotic Fragility and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic One-Humped Dromedary Camels

Idoko Sunday Idoko; Oghenekaro Okeoghene; Samson Eneojo Abalaka; Nuhu Abdulazeez Sani; Oremeyi Zainab Tenuche; Ochuko Orakpoghenor

doi:10.5455/JRVS.20240624090124

Abstract
Although one-humped dromedary camels possess economic and cultural significance, there is a paucity of information on their erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) and oxidative stress biomarkers in relation to symptomatic and asymptomatic conditions. Therefore, this study assessed the alterations in EOF, and oxidative stress biomarkers in symptomatic and asymptomatic dromedary camels. A cross-sectional study of 30 randomly selected camels, categorized into symptomatic (10) and asymptomatic (20) groups based on clinical presentations, was utilized. Blood was collected from each camel and divided into two parts. One part was poured into a labeled vacutainer containing EDTA as anticoagulant, and examined for erythrocyte osmotic fragility. The other part was poured into a labeled plain tube, allowed to clot, and the serum harvested was analysed for oxidative stress biomarkers. The outcomes revealed significantly higher (p < 0.05) rate of haemolysis in the symptomatic camels compared to the asymptomatic camels at 0.3% NaCl concentration. There was significantly (p < 0.05) lower catalase activity in the symptomatic camels compared to asymptomatic camels. No significant (p > 0.05) difference existed for the activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde concentration between the symptomatic and asymptomatic camels. In conclusion, the findings of this study highlight a notable association between the symptomatic state in camels and elevated haemolysis rates at 0.3% NaCl concentration, as well as reduced catalase activity. There is need for further exploration into the underlying mechanisms involved in oxidative stress and antioxidant defense in camels under different health conditions.

Key words: one-humped dromedary camels, clinical presentation, EOF, serum, oxidative stress biomarkers