Assessment of oxidative stress biomarkers in felines infected with calicivirus

Feline Calicivirus (FCV) affects cats, causing respiratory and oral issues. Oxidative stress is a key aspect in FCV pathology, stemming from imbalances between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses. Given cats' heightened sensitivity to oxidative stress, this study aims to explore its presence in FCV-afflicted felines via serum markers. A total of 20 Plasma samples from the Control Group cat and patient group (n=10 each) were obtained and the patient group was confirmed using RT-PCR. Additionally, the presence of Plasma markers (Malondialdehyde: MDA, Superoxide Dismutase: SOD, Catalase, Glutathione Peroxidase: GPx, and Total Antioxidant Capacity: TAC) for oxidative stress were assessed using the ELISA kit. Finally, data analyses and visual representations were executed using Python. Distinct variations in oxidative stress markers among feline cohorts were observed. Patient SOD and GPx levels were 39.73 u/L and 75.63 u/L, respectively, while controls showed 36.41 u/L and 218.48 u/L (p-values: 0.05, 0.017). CAT and MDA values in patients were 3.7 u/L and 9.85 nmol, respectively, contrasting with 11.81 u/L and 4.17 nmol in controls (p-values: 0.002, 0.050), while TAC levels showed minimal differences. The study's results revealed distinct changes in oxidative markers like SOD, GPx, and MDA compared to healthy cats. The slight increase in SOD and decreased GPx activity suggests heightened oxidative stress. Furthermore, these findings highlight potential oxidative disruptions in FCV-infected cats, emphasizing the need for further investigation and potential therapeutic strategies. Additionally, exploring potential therapeutic interventions, like antioxidant supplementation, may open avenues for improved disease management strategies in affected felines.