Abnormal Phenylalanine Metabolism of Procapra przewalskii in Chronic Selenosis in Selenium-Enriched Habitats

Abstract

Selenium (Se)-enriched habitats have led to chronic selenosis, seriously affecting the health and survival of Procapra przewalskii (P. przewalskii). Our targets were to explore the molecular mechanisms of chronic selenosis and to look for a new way to protect endangered species. The mineral contents of soils, grass, blood, and muscle were analyzed. The biochemical indices, antioxidant capability, and immune function were also investigated. The analyses of proteomics and metabolomics were also carried out. The results showed that the Se contents in the muscle and blood of P. przewalskii, and the soil and grass in the Se-enriched habitats were significantly higher than those in healthy pastures. The P. przewalskii in the Se-enriched habitats showed symptoms of anemia, decreased antioxidant capability, and low immune function. A total of 44 differential proteins and 36 differential metabolites were screened by analyzing their proteomics and metabolomics. These differential proteins and metabolites were involved in glycolysis pathway, amino acid biosynthesis, carbon metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, and energy metabolism. In particular, phenylalanine metabolism was the common pathway of proteomics and metabolomics, which was an important finding in studying the mechanism of chronic selenosis in animals. This study will help us to further understand the mechanism of chronic selenosis in P. przewalskii, and it provides a scientific basis for the protection of endangered species in Se-enriched habitats.

Studies of a Naturally Occurring Selenium-Induced Microcytic Anemia in the Przewalski’s Gazelle

“…Research in both animals and humans has demonstrated a significant correlation between Cu deprivation and anemia. Cu plays a crucial role in the body, particularly in the formation of red blood cells, as it is a cofactor for enzymes involved in hemoglobin synthesis and Fe metabolism [18]. In the case of Cu deficiency, these processes are impaired, leading to a reduction in Hb levels and disturbance in Fe metabolism.…”

“…Similarly, when animals consume Se-rich plants, it usually accumulates in the form of selenate or Se-methylselenocysteine, resulting in acute selenosis and eventual death of livestock [17]. Long-term survival in a Se-rich environment can result in chronic selenosis in the Przewalski's gazelle, which is marked by anemia, impaired antioxidant function, poor immunological function, and aberrant phenylalanine metabolism [18].…”