​Mineral Analysis in the Amniotic Fluid of Gaddi Sheep during Different Stages of Gestation

Abstract

Background: Amniotic fluid surrounds the fetus and is considered as an important source of certain trace elements essential for fetal tissue growth and metabolism. The concentration of these trace elements in amniotic fluid changes with the progression of gestation. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the concentration of some micro and macro minerals in the amniotic fluid of Gaddi sheep and their relation to fetal age and weight. Methods: Amniotic fluid was collected from fifty normal gravid uteri for mineral analysis. The foetii were weighed and their crown rump length was measured and then they were divided into four groups i.e. group I (31-60 days), group II (61-90 days), group III (91-120 days) and group IV (121-till term) on the basis of their gestational age. Result: The mean concentration of sodium and potassium showed a declining trend with the progression of gestation. The level of chloride decreased and that of phosphorus increased significantly from group III to IV. Statistical analysis revealed no significant variation in the concentration of copper among different age groups. Significant correlation was observed between the concentration of minerals and fetal age and fetal weight. Based on the changes in the concentration of minerals in the amniotic fluid, it may be possible to detect the early deviations in the metabolism and thereby appropriate farm management practices could be adopted.