Effect of Prepartum Maternal Supplementation with Diphenyl Diselenide on Biochemical, Immunological, and Oxidative Parameters of the Offspring

Simple Summary The rearing of calves is a challenging phase in the production of dairy cattle. These animals face challenges from birth, as they require ingestion of colostral immunoglobulins for transfer of passive immunity, given that their immune systems are still immature. If there is a failure in the transfer of passive immunity, they become vulnerable to disease. This vulnerability, combined with stressors such as weaning, can predispose them to cellular oxidative stress. Similarly, to the immune system, the antioxidant defense system is also in the developmental stage, therefore, providing antioxidant substances during this phase could be a valuable option. Considering this, our team proposed to assess the impact of prepartum maternal selenium supplementation on the offspring, given its established benefits and its transfer through the placenta, colostrum, and milk. Diphenyl diselenide, an organic analog, was selected because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can be administered safely subcutaneously, ensuring the correct dosage and facilitating its use at strategic times without any risk of toxicity. Maternal supplementation with diphenyl diselenide has been found to significantly increase passive immunity transfer rates in calves, as well as help establish and improve humoral immunity. This provides new insight into the immunomodulatory capabilities of this molecule.Abstract This study aimed to assess the impact of prepartum maternal diphenyl diselenide (PhSe)2 supplementation on the development, biochemical, immune, and antioxidant parameters of calves. Eighteen Holstein breed calves were used, born to females who were or were not subjected to supplementation, at 42, 28, and 14 days prior to calving. The (PhSe)2 group (DDG) was administered 3 mu mol/kg of (PhSe)2 in 4 mL of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), while the DMSO and NaCl groups were administered 4 mL of DMSO and 0.9% NaCl, subcutaneously. The calves were evaluated based on their weight, withers height, body condition score 24 h post-birth (0), as well on days 14, 28, 42, 56, 70. Blood samples were also taken to determine serum variables. Calves on the DDG showed higher average levels of total protein, albumin, and globulins on day 0, and the immunoglobulin G level was significantly higher than the other groups on days 0, 14, 56, 70. Maternal supplementation showed immunomodulatory effect on calves, evidenced by the exceptional rates of passive immunity transfer, as well as the enhancement of humoral immunity. Our research offers fresh insights into the immunomodulatory potential of (PhSe)2, making it a viable alternative in facing this challenging phase, rearing dairy calves.