Hematological and biochemical blood parameters of pirot pramenka - endangered sheep population

Abstract

Pirot breed is a highly endangered autochthonous population of sheep in Serbia, from which several important national brands originate: Pirot lamb, Pirot carpet and Pirot hard cheese. In the available literature, there are no data on hematological and biochemical parameters of the blood of this population. The aim of this paper, which represents the beginning of the research, is to determine the above indicators in the blood of Pirot Pramenka, which will contribute to the preservation of this population. Since the breed affects the value of blood parameters, the obtained results will be used to define reference intervals for this population and compare with others. The study included 30 clinically healthy sheep, 2-3 years old, from the area of Stara Planina. Blood samples were taken by puncture to c. jugularis from which, after coagulation and centrifugation, blood serum was extracted. Haematological analyzes were performed in the next 24 hours on a Siemens Advia 120 analyzer. The following parameters were determined: total number of leukocytes, erythrocytes, platelets, hemoglobin content, hematocrit value, MCV, MCH, PLT and MPV. Biochemical blood tests were performed using Olympus AU 400 analyzers.The following parameters were determined: total protein, albumin, globulin, urea, creatinine, glucose, total bilirubin, cholesterol. Also, the following minerals were determined - calcium, phosphate and magnesium, and following enzymes: AST, GGT and CK. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the statistical package STATISTICA (Version 8). Hematological indicators of Pirot pramenka are in reference intervals for sheep, which indicates good animal health status. Biochemical parameters of Pirot pramenka blood were within defined physiological limits, except for creatinine and phosphorus levels, which were below the lower limit, which is a consequence of dehydration and reduced alimentary intake. In accordance with the obtained results, it is necessary to correct the diet.