Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of fermented spent mushroom substrate (FSM) supplementation on hematological, serum biochemical, immune, and antioxidant parameters in Hanwoo heifers.Twelve healthy Hanwoo heifers (average body weight 390±25 kg, average age 21±2 months) were randomly assigned to two groups: a control group (fed a conventional total mixed ration) and a treatment group (FSM, 30% of TMR replaced with FSM) for a total of 90 days, including a 10-day adaptation period.The results showed that red blood cell count and hematocrit were significantly higher in the FSM group compared with the control (P<0.05).In serum biochemical indices, total protein and globulin concentrations were significantly increased in the FSM group (P<0.01),while albumin and total cholesterol remained within the normal range without significant differences.Regarding immune indices, interleukin-6 concentration was significantly elevated in the FSM group (P<0.01),whereas interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-α showed no significant differences.In antioxidant parameters, superoxide dismutase activity was higher, catalase activity was lower (P<0.05),and malondialdehyde showed no significant change between the groups.These findings suggest that FSM supplementation improves erythropoiesis, protein metabolism, immune activation, and antioxidant enzyme regulation in Hanwoo cattle.Therefore, FSM has potential as a sustainable functional feed resource, although further studies are required to clarify its long-term effects and optimal feeding levels.
Authors: Jong-Pil Lee, Guk-Hyun Suh, Bong-Joo Lee
Institution: Chonnam National University
Language: English
Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7083417492