Effect of vitamin E, Zn and Cu supplementation on Immune status, reproductive health and production in dairy animals: A review

Abstract

Vitamin E and trace minerals are essential for immune status, reproductive health, and productivity in dairy animals. Vitamin E is an essential, fat-soluble antioxidant that is necessary for maintaining immunity and reproductive health. Zinc and Copper essential trace minerals. In order to maintain and develop immunocompetence, zinc is essential, Copper is also importantto maintain immunocompetence. Copper is a co-factor in hundreds of enzymatic activities as lysyl oxidase, cytochrome c oxidase that have a role in collagen synthesis, erythropoiesis, energy production, collagen synthesis, hormone production, and oxidative damage protection. Zinc and Copper are parts of cytosolic superoxide dismutase, an enzyme that shields cells from reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage. Along with vitamin E, zinc and selenium, copper is important for maintaining a healthy udder. Vitamin E and Zinc are also known to be associated with milk production and composition.A substantial drop in vitamin E levels occurs during the periparturient phase, which affects the neutrophil functions and immunity of the cow. Micronutrients and vitamin E supplements are considered to be essential to maximizing animal production and health. To produce a significant amount of colostrum and milk, periparturient cows show great mammary development and profuse synthesis and release of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Cows require a higher supply of vitamins A and E before calving because colostrum is loaded with these nutrients. During early lactation period cows require the highest Cu and Zn supplementation. Due to an increase in colostrogenesis, zinc is diverted from the plasma pool and directed toward the mammary gland after parturition. Acute phase response due to a drop in serum Zn concentration at the time of parturition results in uterine inflammation. When sufficient Cu is supplied, this is especially significant for phagocytic cells and could be the main mechanism of action for decreased infectious diseases.