Stanger, K.J., Ketheesan, N., Parker, A.J., Coleman, C.J., Lazzaroni, S.M., and Fitzpatrick, L.A. (2005) The effect of transportation on the immune status of Bos indicus steers. Journal of Animal Science, 83 (11). pp. 2632-2636.

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Abstract

This study investigated the effect of 72 h of road transport on the immune status of Bos indicus steers (n = 10; age = 15 to 18 mo). Total and differential leukocyte numbers and lymphocyte function were determined at 2 d before transport (–48 h), immediately after 72 h of transport (72 h), and 6 d after transport (216 h). Phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation, interferon-{gamma} production, and tetanus-toxoid specific antibody levels were determined. Total leukocyte and eosinophil numbers showed a transient decrease at 72 h (immediately after transport; P< 0.05) and returned to baseline values by 6 d after transport. Lymphocyte numbers and antibody titers were unaffected by transportation. The PHA-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation decreased (P < 0.05) at 72 h and returned to baseline levels 6 d after transport. This study demonstrated that transportation of mature Bos indicus steers caused transient decreases in leukocyte numbers and lymphocyte function, although all measures recovered by 6 d after transport. Therefore, Bos indicus cattle may be vulnerable to infection during this period.

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