Evaluation of Serum/Urine Desmosine and Laminin Concentrations in Premature Calves with Respiratory Distress

Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is crucial for diagnosing and assessing acutely ill patients. While ABG provides exceptional insights into the body's response to hypoxemia, its true value emerges when interpreted alongside the patient’s medical history and underlying pathologies. Additionally, certain biomarkers can further clarify the ongoing pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in premature calves. Objective of the study is to evaluate the pathogenesis of ARDS in premature calves by analyzing tissue-specific biomarkers such as laminin and desmosine in both serum and urine samples, along with ABG results, and their correlations. All animals were admitted to Harran University Veterinary Faculty Animal Hospital either for diagnostic, treatment, or check-up purposes. Those who were premature and confirmed to have ARDS were included in the patient group (n: 22), while those who were determined to be healthy and non-premature were included in the control group (n: 10). Following the physical examination, ABG and venous metabolic and electrolyte evaluations, serum/urine desmosine and laminin concentrations were measured. As a result, it was determined that urine desmosine and laminin levels were not statistically different between the groups. Serum desmosine was significantly higher (p<0.0001) and laminin significantly lower (p<0.031) in the patient group compared to the control group. It was concluded that in investigating the pathogenesis of lung damage in ARDS, serum desmosine concentration appears useful for evaluating the presence and severity of lung damage, while serum laminin concentration may help assess the extent of the repair response.