Survey on basal blood plasma catecholamine concentrations in Martina Franca donkey (Equus asinus).

This research article investigates the basal plasma concentrations of hormones known as catecholamines (adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine) in healthy Martina Franca donkeys. The study found that these hormone levels were not affected by sex, however, older donkeys had lower adrenaline and noradrenaline concentrations than younger ones.

Objective of the Study

• The main goal of the research was to evaluate the basal plasma concentrations of catecholamines, specifically adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine, in healthy Martina Franca donkeys. These hormones are common indicators used in the examination of an animal’s sympathoadrenal activity in response to stress.

Methods Used in the Study

• For this cross-sectional study, the researchers collected catecholamine concentration data from 440 Martina Franca donkeys, which included 269 females and 171 males with ages ranging from 4 months to 24 years.
• The donkeys were grouped into four age categories for further analysis.
• Blood samples were drawn from indwelling jugular catheters inserted at least 12 hours before collection. The data collected was then analyzed considering age, sex, and their interaction as independent variables.
• Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated for the three catecholamines in question.

Results of the Study

• The average concentration values were identified for each catecholamine, along with the ratio of noradrenaline to adrenaline additionally being calculated.
• Through this analysis, it was concluded that catecholamine plasma levels were not influenced by the sex of the donkeys.
• However, it was observed that donkeys over 37 months old showed lower adrenaline and noradrenaline plasma concentrations compared to younger individuals, and a higher noradrenaline/adrenaline ratio.

Conclusions from the Research

• In their conclusion, the researchers acknowledged that the method of catheter insertion and blood collection could have potentially influenced the recorded catecholamine levels.
• The study succeeded in establishing a baseline level of catecholamine concentrations within a large group of healthy Martina Franca donkeys, which can be utilized for future research and health assessments in this specific donkey breed.