The application of acute phase protein as biomarkers in bovine mastitis

Abstract

Acute phase proteins (APP) are components of the blood that plays a very significant role in maintaining or restoring homeostasis and inhibiting microbial growth in animal prior to the development of antibodies by the host during trauma, inflammation or infection process.  The concentration of circulating APP in the blood is directly related to the degree and or severity of disease and the extent of tissue damage. Additionally, it is also useful in monitoring response to disease, in disease diagnosis, prognosis and general health screening and evaluation. Acute phase proteins are classified according to concentration of protein, mode of action and concentration in other animals. The description of APP in cases of disease will help in mapping out a profile of APP characteristics of that disease, thus providing valuable information with regards to the mechanism of the disease process and also serves as a very good diagnostic aid. This review focuses on the role of APP in determining the type of mastitis, severity of mastitis and determinant of herd health.