Abstract
Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a pathogen that affects cats, causing respiratory and oral issues. Oxidative stress constitutes a pivotal element in the pathophysiology of FCV, arising from imbalances between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses. Given the heightened sensitivity of cats to oxidative stress, the present study aims to explore its presence in felines afflicted with FCV via serum markers. A total of 20 plasma samples were obtained from the control group and the patient group (n=10 each). The patient group was confirmed using RT-PCR. Furthermore, the presence of plasma markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, has been observed. The present study will examine the relationship between GPx and Total Antioxidant Capacity. TAC) for oxidative stress were assessed using the ELISA kit. Finally, data analyses and visual representations were executed using Python. Distinct variations in oxidative stress markers were observed among feline cohorts. The patient's SOD and GPx levels were 39.73 u/L and 75.63 u/L, respectively, while the control group exhibited levels of 36.41 u/L and 218.48 u/L (p-values: 0.05, 0.017). The mean values of CAT and MDA in patients were 3.7 u/L and 9.85 nmol, respectively, contrasting with 11.81 u/L and 4.17 nmol in the control group (p-values: 0.002, 0.050). Meanwhile, the levels of TAC exhibited minimal differences. The study's findings indicated significant variations in oxidative markers such as SOD, GPx, and MDA when compared to healthy cats. The observed rise in SOD and decline in GPx activity indicate a heightened state of oxidative stress. Moreover, these findings underscore the possibility of oxidative disruptions in FCV-infected cats, underscoring the necessity for additional investigation and the potential development of therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, the exploration of potential therapeutic interventions, such as antioxidant supplementation, may facilitate the development of enhanced disease management strategies for affected felines.