Variation in expression of HSPs and their corresponding mRNA transcripts in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of beef cattle by transportation durations

The expression of Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) and corresponding mRNA transcription in Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes (PBL) of transported beef cattle are poorly documented despite potential health implications for consumers. Herein, concentrations of adrenal Cortisol (COR) and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), the expression of HSP70, HSP27, HSP90 and corresponding mRNA transcripts were examined in PBL of transported Xia Nan cattle, the first commercial breed used in China. Six cattle were transported and samples were collected prior to transportation at 1 and 0 h during transportation at 2, 3, 9, 10, 15 and 20 h and after transportation at 10, 20 and 30 11. As revealed by radioimmunoassay, COR and ACTH concentrations increased after 2 and 3 h of transportation, likely due to stress. Various HSPs in PBL had unique expression patterns. ELISA results showed that HSP70 expression was initiated at 2 h of transportation and the level was the highest at 2 h of transportation; however, HSP27 and HSP90 were primarily expressed just at 9 h of transportation. HSP70 mRNA transcripts was induced after 3 and 9 h of transportation. Additionally, a significant increase in HSP27 mRNA after 3 h of transportation was observed while no change in HSP90 expression was observed during transportation.