TITLE:
The Role of Zinc, Manganse and Copper in Rumen Metabolism and Immune Function: A Review Article
AUTHORS:
Elhashmi Y. Hilal, Mohamed A. E. Elkhairey, Ayman O. A. Osman
KEYWORDS:
Dietary Trace Mineral, Rumen Metabolism, Immune Function, Performance, Reproductive and Rumen Fermentation
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Animal Sciences,
Vol.6 No.4,
October
31,
2016
ABSTRACT: Trace minerals are dietary elements required by the body in minute amounts, ranging
from 0.10 to 50.0 mg/kg dry matter in beef cattle diets [1]. These trace minerals
are all necessary for the biochemical processes of the body that support proper
growth and maintenance. For example, Cu is necessary for the function of superoxide
dismutase and its removal of toxic byproducts from metabolic pathways [2]. The
removal of these toxic byproducts allows for metabolism to proceed efficiently, uninhibited
by damaging oxygen free radicals. Zinc, an important trace mineral for enzyme
function, aides in the regulation of nucleic acid production, carbohydrate metabolism,
and protein synthesis, thus providing a stable framework for development
[3]. The immune system is part of the host’s defense against destructive forces from
outside the body, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, or from within, such as malignant
cells or those that produce autoantibodies [4]. This system is composed of
two branches: the innate or non-specific immune system, and the adaptive or specific
immune system [5]. In this review paper, an attempt has been made to review effects
of mineral supplements in Rumen Metabolism, effects on Immune Function in different
species of animals.