[Normal values of the hematological, biochemical and enzymological indices of the donkey].

This research analyzes 85 donkeys of the Martina Franca breed, highlighting parameters such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, ESR, erythrocyte and leukocyte counts, blood sugar, cholesterol, urea, protein fractions, micro and macro elements and enzymes. The study shows that there are no significant variances based on gender; however, age affects the values of some of these indices.

Sampling and Data Collection

• The researchers studied 85 donkeys of Martina Franca breed, a type of domestic ass. The sample included both males and females, ranging in age from one to twelve years. The animals were brought together for testing and data collection.
• The various physiological markers measured include hemoglobin, hematocrit, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), total erythrocyte and leukocyte counts, leukocyte formula, blood sugar, cholesterol, urea, total protein and protein fractions, several micro- and macroelements, and enzymes.

Main Findings

• The study found no substantial differences in these physiological markers between male and female donkeys. This consistency across genders is an important finding, indicating that gender does not significantly influence these physiological parameters in the Martina Franca breed of donkeys.
• Age, however, has a significant effect on certain parameters. Younger donkeys exhibit lower hemoglobin and erythrocyte numbers. As the animals age, leukocyte counts tend to decrease, while the percentage of neutrophiles (a type of white blood cell) increases.
• The lymphocyte profile (another type of white blood cell) in these donkeys was found to be associated with eosinophilia (an increased eosinophil count, which could be an indication of an allergic reaction or parasitic infection).
• The amount of total protein was observed to be lower in young donkeys in comparison to older ones, although the albumin-globulin ratio remained the same. This may indicate that as donkeys age, they produce more protein overall, but the relative proportions of different protein types remain consistent.
• The concentration of inorganic phosphorus and calcium was inversely related to the age of the animals. Younger animals had a higher concentration of inorganic phosphorus and lower calcium, while the situation was reversed in older ones. This finding can provide insights into the alteration in mineral metabolism with age in donkeys.
• Regarding enzyme activity, it was established that activities of the assessed enzymes were generally lower in donkeys than in horses, providing a comparative perspective on enzyme behavior across equine species.