Serum proteinogram of cats experimentally infected by Trypanosoma evansi.

Abstract

This study was aimed at evaluating the electrophoretic profile of serum proteins in Trypanosoma evansi-infected cats during different periods of infection. Thirteen adult females non-breeding Felis catus were separated into two groups. Animals from the infected group (n=7) were inoculated intraperitoneally with a strain of T. evansi; whereas, animals from the control group (n=6) received a physiological solution. Blood samples were collected at days 0, 7, 21, and 35 for total protein evaluation and protein fractionation by electrophoresis. Albumin (P<0.01), alpha-2 globulin and gamma globulin (P<0.05) concentrations were statistically different from the seventh day post-inoculation onwards. Beta-globulin levels were increased from day 21 onwards (P<0.05). Alpha-1 globulin fraction did not differ statistically. These results indicate that the infection by T. evansi in cats alters the serum protein electrophoretic profile.