Why black rhinos may get sick in captivity
Inflammatory and oxidative status in captive black rhinoceroses

Date:
August 12, 2020
Source:
PLOS
Summary:
Inflammation and oxidative stress may be involved in the
pathogenesis of iron overload disorder in captive black
rhinoceroses, making this syndrome a potential common denominator to
various diseases described in captivity in this species, according
to a new study.



FULL STORY ========================================================================== Inflammation and oxidative stress may be involved in the pathogenesis
of iron overload disorder in captive black rhinoceroses, making this
syndrome a potential common denominator to various diseases described
in captivity in this species, according to a study published August
12 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE by Hanae Pouillevet of Oniris Nantes-Atlantic National College of Veterinary Medicine, and colleagues.


========================================================================== Black rhinoceroses are considered to be vulnerable to critically
endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In
captivity, these animals develop serious diseases not seen in wild black rhinoceroses. One such condition is iron overload disorder, in which iron accumulates in the body, potentially contributing to organ failure. In the
new study, the researchers tested how iron overload disorder relates to inflammation and oxidative stress, which have been linked to a variety of health conditions. Inflammation is part of the complex biological response
of body tissues to protect against harmful stimuli, such as pathogens,
damaged cells, or irritants. Oxidative stress is a phenomenon caused
by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species in
cells and tissues and the ability to detoxify these oxygen- containing, chemically reactive molecules through protective mechanisms.

15 black rhinoceroses and 29 white rhinoceroses were sampled at 22
European zoos. Compared to white rhinoceroses, which do not develop iron overload disorder, black rhinoceroses showed higher iron levels and higher markers of inflammation and oxidative stress. The findings suggest that
iron accumulation may enhance inflammation and oxidative stress, leading
to additional diseases, rapid aging, and organ damage. According to the authors, the results highlight the importance of continuing efforts to
control iron overload disorder in captive black rhinoceroses, whether
through dietary interventions or through regular blood removal. Further investigations are needed to assess the value of the inflammatory
and oxidative markers for determining the prognosis of captive black rhinoceroses, particularly for evaluating the impact of reduced-iron
and antioxidant-supplemented diets.


========================================================================== Story Source: Materials provided by PLOS. Note: Content may be edited
for style and length.


========================================================================== Journal Reference:
1. Hanae Pouillevet, Nicolas Soetart, Delphine Boucher, Rudy Wedlarski,
Laetitia Jaillardon. Inflammatory and oxidative status in European
captive black rhinoceroses: A link with Iron Overload Disorder? PLOS
ONE, 2020; 15 (8): e0231514 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231514 ==========================================================================

Link to news story: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/08/200812144131.htm

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