Effects of Graded Levels of Vitamin E Supplementation on Hematology, Biochemical Parameters and Stress Resilience in Uda Rams

Mikailu, M. M.

Department of Animal Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria.

Aljameel, K. M. *

Department of Animal Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria.

Abubakar, A. A.

Department of Animal Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria.

Allahbamu, F.

Department of Animal Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of graded levels of vitamin E supplementation on hematological, serum biochemical, stress indicators, and oxidative stress biomarkers in Uda rams. Fifteen rams (18–23 kg) were randomly assigned to three treatments: control (no vitamin E), 40 g/kg (Vit.E1), and 60 g/kg (Vit.E2) dry matter supplementation, following a completely randomized design. Hematological analysis revealed significantly higher red blood cell (RBC) counts in Vit.E1 (12.533 ×10⁶/mm³) and Vit.E2 (13.230 ×10⁶/mm³) groups compared to control (8.667 ×10⁶/mm³; p < 0.05), with concurrent reductions in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), indicating smaller, more efficient erythrocytes. White blood cell (WBC) counts increased significantly in the Vit.E2 group (12.617 ×10³/mm³), suggesting enhanced immune competence. Serum biochemical analysis showed significant decreases in total cholesterol and increases in HDL levels in supplemented groups (p < 0.05), while liver enzymes and protein profiles remained unchanged, confirming the safety of supplementation. Stress indicators revealed reduced respiratory rates and rectal temperature at higher vitamin E levels, reflecting improved physiological adaptability. Oxidative stress biomarkers, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), decreased significantly in supplemented groups (p < 0.05), demonstrating enhanced antioxidant defense, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) exhibited dose-dependent stabilization. Thyroxine (T4) levels decreased significantly with supplementation, indicating modulation of thyroid metabolism. Vitamin E supplementation, particularly at 60 g/kg DM, improved hematological parameters, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress resilience, and stress adaptability in Uda rams.

Keywords: Hematology, superoxide dismutase, haemoglobin, red blood cell (RBC)


How to Cite

M. M., Mikailu, Aljameel, K. M., Abubakar, A. A., and Allahbamu, F. 2026. “Effects of Graded Levels of Vitamin E Supplementation on Hematology, Biochemical Parameters and Stress Resilience in Uda Rams”. International Journal of Research and Reports in Hematology 9 (1):27-36. https://doi.org/10.9734/ijr2h/2026/v9i1207.

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