Evaluation of Metalloenzymes as Biomarkers of Copper and Zinc Status in Sheep

Evaluation of Metalloenzymes as Biomarkers of Copper and Zinc Status in Sheep

Copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) deficiency is widespread in grazing ruminants throughout the world. Our recent survey indicated that Cu and Zn, among all the minerals, are most limiting trace minerals for livestock production in different agro-climatic zones of India. Copper and zinc play many significant roles in metabolism and is a component of several metalloenzymes and transcription factors. A severe form of deficiency in animals can readily be diagnosed from the combined evidence of the clinical and pathological lesions. However, diagnosis in the early stages or milder forms presents difficulties. There are several effective ways to diagnose Cu and Zn deficiency; however, each poses unique challenges