Effect of 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 on inflammation, antimicrobial peptide, and D-dimer levels in Escherichia coli-induced sepsis in neonatal calves

This study evaluated the immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and anticoagulant effects of 1.25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 in neonatal calves with Escherichia coli-induced sepsis. Thirty neonatal Simmental calves were assigned to three groups: Control (n = 10), Medical Treatment (MT; n = 10), and Medical Treatment plus vitamin D3 (MT + D3; n = 10). The MT group received standard sepsis therapy, while the MT + D3 group was additionally administered 20,000 IU/kg intramuscular vitamin D3. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 1, 3, and 5 to analyze inflammatory cytokines (NF-kappa B, TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-10), cathelicidin, D-dimer, iron levels, and hematological parameters. Biochemical indicators including liver, kidney, and heart function, as well as calcium and vitamin D3 levels, were assessed on days 0 and 5. The MT + D3 group showed significant clinical and laboratory improvements compared to the MT group. Notably, SpO2levels increased, and metabolic acidosis resolved earlier. Hematological findings indicated reduced sepsis-associated anemia, with better preservation of RBC, HGB, and HCT levels. Inflammatory cytokines (NF-kappa B, TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta) significantly decreased, and IL-10 levels were more effectively regulated. Lower D-dimer levels indicated improved coagulation balance. Although cathelicidin levels initially increased, their subsequent decline by day 5 suggested controlled innate immune activation. In conclusion, vitamin D3 supplementation in combination with standard treatment effectively reduced systemic inflammation, supported innate immunity, and improved coagulation in neonatal calves with sepsis. These results suggest that vitamin D3 may serve as a beneficial adjunct therapy in bovine neonatal sepsis. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosing strategies and long-term clinical benefits.

Journal

VETERINARY IMMUNOLOGY AND IMMUNOPATHOLOGY

Year

2025

Volume

285

ISSN

0165-2427

eISSN

1873-2534

DOI

10.1016/j.vetimm.2025.110963

WoS UID

WOS:001504819900001