Effect of copper deficiency on blood lipid profile and haematological parameters in broilers

The aim of the study was to observe the changes in haematological parameters and blood lipid profile through copper (Cu) deficiency. Eighty broiler chicks were used in the study. The chicks were separated into two equal groups (n = 40), feed treatment according to the groups started on day 7. The animals in the control group were fed with normal feed. Those in the Cu-deficient group were fed with feed that did not contain supplemental Cu. Blood samples were taken from all the animals on days 7, 21 and 49. Fibrinogen and prothrombin time were assayed in plasma; total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol), triglyceride and ceruloplasmin were assayed in sera; and haematocrit and thrombocyte levels were assayed in the blood samples. Total cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol levels were significantly higher in the Cu-deficient group than in the control group. Serum ceruloplasmin levels were lower in the Cu-deficient group than in the control group. Prothrombin time was higher in the Cu-deficient group than in the control group. Haematocrit levels were lower in the Cu-deficient group than in the control group. It was concluded that Cu deficiency created hypertriglyceridaemia, hypercholesterolaemia, insufficient growth and anaemia in broilers.