Glutathione Peroxidase Activity in Ewes on Scrapie Farms in Iceland
Author Information
Author(s): Gudmundsdóttir Kristín B, Kristinsson Jakob, Sigurdarson Sigurdur, Eiríksson Tryggvi, Jóhannesson Torkell
Primary Institution: University of Iceland
Hypothesis
The study aims to examine the GPX activity in blood and its distribution among ewes on farms in different scrapie categories.
Conclusion
GPX activity levels were significantly lower in ewes on scrapie-prone farms compared to those on scrapie-free or scrapie-afflicted farms.
Supporting Evidence
- GPX results were biphasically distributed across all scrapie categories.
- 30-50% of GPX results from ewes in scrapie categories were below 300 units g Hb-1.
- The mean GPX activity was highest on a scrapie-free farm.
- Significant differences in GPX activity were found between scrapie-prone and scrapie-free farms.
Takeaway
The study found that ewes on farms with scrapie had lower levels of a protective enzyme in their blood compared to ewes on healthy farms.
Methodology
Blood samples were collected from 635 ewes on 40 farms categorized by scrapie status, and GPX activity was analyzed using spectrophotometric assays.
Limitations
The study could not include large groups of ewes diagnosed with clinical scrapie due to culling regulations.
Participant Demographics
Ewes aged 2-5 years, both pregnant and non-pregnant.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0005
Statistical Significance
p<0.0005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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