Effect of zinc oxide or selenium nanoparticles on body weight, growth related genes and physiology in Baladi goats

Enhancing meat production is essential to meet the rising global demand for animal protein, improve food security, and support sustainable agriculture. This study evaluated the effects of zinc oxide (ZnO) and selenium (Se), each administered individually in conventional or nanoparticle (NP) forms on growth of Egyptian Baladi goats. Twenty-two pregnant Egyptian Baladi goats were divided into five groups, each receiving a different treatment via drinking water: 150 mg ZnO, 15 mg ZnO-NPs, 0.3 mg Se, or 0.03 mg Se-NPs. The control group received unsupplemented water. Treatments began 30 days before parturition and continued until weaning (90 days postpartum). Body weight, expression of GH, IGF-1, and leptin genes, along with physiological parameters, were evaluated. Goats receiving either ZnO-NPs or Se-NPs had significantly higher body weights at parturition and greater weight gain from birth to weaning than those in the conventional elements and control groups. Suckling kids from ZnO-NP or Se-NP-treated goats showed significantly higher birth and weaning weights, total body gain, and daily weight gain (P < 0.001), particularly in the ZnO-NP group. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulated GH and IGF-1 and leptin expression in ZnO-NP- and Se-NP-treated goats, with the highest levels observed in the Se-NPs group. Physiological analysis showed protein and esterase isoenzyme pattern changes in ZnO-treated goats, while Se caused no alterations. Neither ZnO nor Se affected catalase, peroxidase or α-amylase activity. These findings highlight the potential of ZnO-NPs and Se-NPs as effective and safe nutritional supplements for improving livestock productivity.