Fig. 8
Interactions among white blood cells, serum metabolites, and nasopharyngeal microflora in transported calves. Transportation stress, such as fear, hunger, and dehydration, significantly alters the composition and gene expression profiles of white blood cells, as well as the profiles of serum metabolites. These changes adversely affect the performance of calves and disrupt the balance of their nasopharyngeal microflora. Exposure to unfamiliar individuals and new environments further destabilizes the nasopharyngeal microflora equilibrium in calves. This disruption not only affects the white blood cell composition and gene expression profiles but also alters the serum metabolites profiles, culminating in diminished calf performance. Management practices play a crucial role in mitigating these effects. The administration of colostrum and electrolyte water supplements enhances the immune function of calves, thereby improving their performance and restoring the balance of nasopharyngeal microflora. Similarly, the use of antibiotics and probiotics supplements aids in maintaining the nasopharyngeal microflora’s equilibrium. These practices weaken the negative impacts of transpiration stress on white blood cells and serum metabolites, leading to improved calf performance. HPA, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis