Serum Levels of Some Trace Elements and Thyroid Hormones in Yearling Rams with Retardation in Growth

Serum levels of T3, T4, and TSH hormones, some elements, and glucose with regard to their involvement for growth retardation in yearling rams were investigated. A total of 70 yearling rams of the Akkaraman breed, 50 of which were classified with a retarded growth, and the remaining 20 were classified as normal, were included in the study. Serum total T3, total T4, and TSH were measured using chemiluminescent enzyme-labelled immunometric assay with immulite kits. Serum levels of Zn, Cu, and Co were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Serum glucose was measured using auto analyser. There were significant differences between the yearling rams, with and without retarded growth for serum levels of T3, Zn, Cu, Co, and glucose. However, there no significant differences for T4, and TSH between the yearling rams, with and without retarded growth. The results of the study suggest that retarded growth in yearling rams is associated with the lower levels of serum total T3, Zn, Cu, Co, and glucose; however, there is no scientific evidence for the association of T4, and TSH in the condition.