Selenium and Immune Responses in Sheep with Footrot
Author Information
Author(s): Jean A Hall, Rachel L Sendek, Rachel M Chinn, D Paul Bailey, Kate N Thonstad, Yongqiang Wang, Neil E Forsberg, William R Vorachek, Bernadette V Stang, Robert J Van Saun, Gerd Bobe
Primary Institution: Oregon State University
Hypothesis
Selenium functions as an immunonutrient, enhancing both arms of the immune response and accelerating recovery from footrot in sheep.
Conclusion
Selenium supplementation improves immune responses in footrot-affected sheep, particularly in those with higher whole-blood selenium concentrations.
Supporting Evidence
- Footrot-affected sheep receiving selenium had lower foot scores than those receiving saline.
- Sheep with whole-blood selenium concentrations above 250 ng/mL had improved immune responses.
- Neutrophil function was suppressed in footrot-affected sheep but not improved by selenium supplementation.
Takeaway
Sheep with footrot can get better if they get selenium shots, which help their immune system fight the disease.
Methodology
A placebo-controlled clinical trial where footrot-affected sheep received selenium or saline injections, and immune responses were measured through various tests.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the lack of randomization in the selection of sheep for treatment groups.
Limitations
The study did not account for individual variations in immune function due to factors like genetics and stress.
Participant Demographics
Crossbred, primarily black-faced mature ewes aged 2-6 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = 0.04
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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