Do intramuscular injections of beta 1,3-glucan affect metabolic and enzymatic profiles in Santa Ines ewes during late gestation and early lactation?
Résumé
The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of beta 1,3-glucan on the metabolic profile of Santa Ines ewes in the peri-partum period. Fourteen pregnant ewes were randomly divided into two groups: a glucan group (G) and a control group (C) 60d before expected lambing. Over eight weeks, between the -60 and -10 days in relation to lambing, each animal in the G group received weekly a 1mL intramuscular injection of beta 1,3-glucan. Nutritional requirements were covered. Blood samples were collected on the -30, -20, -10, 0, +10, +20, +30 and +60 day in relation to lambing. Glucose, L-lactate, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyric acid (beta HB), fructosamine, cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine, total and ionized calcium, chloride, sodium, potassium, inorganic phosphorous, magnesium, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma glutamyl transferase and creatine kinase were measured. The results were analysed with a repeated measures model. The ewes were clinically healthy. Glucose, L-lactate, NEFA and HB peaked at parturition (p< 0.05). AST, fructosamine and albumin were higher in C compared to G. The difference for AST was significant (p< 0.05) while for the latter two variables it was not (p< 0.10). Urea concentrations were higher in G compared to C but the difference was not statistically significant (p< 0.10). In conclusion, in this preliminary experiment, the changes with time were consistent with a change in physiological status (gestation/ lactation). beta 1,3-glucan did not affect energy metabolism. beta 1,3-glucan appeared to protect muscle and liver because AST activities were lower than in controls. The use of beta 1,3-glucan did not negatively affect the animals.