Background: Intoxication caused by Senecio sp is characterized by irreversible damage to liver cells and may be associated with oxidative stress.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of intoxication by Senecio sp on lipoperoxidation, antioxidant defenses, and the osmotic resistance of erythrocytes in cattle.
Methods: Blood samples from 30 intoxicated animals (group 1) and 30 healthy animals (group 2) were analyzed. The diagnosis of poisoning by Senecio sp was based on histopathologic lesions verified through hepatic biopsy. The following biochemical parameters of oxidative stress in the erythrocytes were determined: thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) activity, and nonprotein sulfhydryl (NPSH) groups. Erythrocyte osmotic fragility also was evaluated.
Results: TBARS concentration and CuZnSOD activity were significantly (P <.001) higher in group 1 when compared with group 2. The concentration of erythrocyte NPSH groups was significantly (P <.03) lower in group 1 when compared with group 2. Osmotic fragility was more pronounced in the erythrocytes of group 1 when compared with group 2 (P < .001).
Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that poisoning by Senecio sp causes an increase in lipoperoxidation, oxidation of NPSH groups, and consequently, oxidative stress in bovine erythrocytes that may contribute to hemolysis. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in cell damage in animals intoxicated by Senecio sp.