Research on the impact of graphene oxide in feed on growth and health parameters in calves

Mycotoxins, as feed contaminants, pose serious health risks and cause significant economic losses on farms. The selection of an appropriate and effective adsorbent remains a key challenge for many researchers. Graphene oxide (GO) and its derivatives have garnered interest due to their exceptional physicochemical properties. However, the increasing use of GO necessitates a thorough investigation into its potential toxic impacts on animal and human health, as well as the environment. This study evaluates the effects of GO as a feed additive on calf health. Ten calves (100 ± 6 kg) participated in a 20-day experiment: five in the control group (C) and five in the experimental group (T). The control group (C) received feed without GO, while the experimental group (T) was fed a diet containing 30 g of GO/kg/day. Key parameters evaluated included growth performance, biochemical markers (ALT, AST, ALP), and mineral levels (Ca, P, Mg, K, Na, Cl, Fe, Cu, Zn). The average weight gain was 16.20 ± 0.32 kg in the control group and 15.40 ± 0.26 kg in the GO group, with no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). Calves fed GO-enriched feed exhibited significant reductions in Fe (p = 0.041) and Zn (p = 0.0006) levels, while Mg increased significantly in the control group (p = 0.029). Liver parameters in group T showed significant increases in ALT (p = 0.022), AST (p = 0.027), and ALP (p = 0.015) after 20 days. Additionally, GPx activity was significantly decreased in the GO group (p = 0.011). These results suggest that GO at a dose of 30 g/kg/day in feed can negatively affect calf health.