Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Dogs

Oxidative stress is the repair process that cells normally undergo after they metabolize oxygen and form free radicals called reactive oxygen species (ROS). When ROS production is excessive, however, cells undergo damage and release biomarker lipids and enzymes that lead to tissue inflammation, infections, obesity and cancers. This study describes a practical and rapid screening salivary test for cellular oxidative stress (OS) in dogs, which can be addressed to help enhance their health and longevity.

Of the 228 dogs tested for ROS, 79 had elevated levels of the biolipid isoprostane; and 38 of them also had saliva-based profiles for food sensitivity and intolerances to 24 primary foods. Only 3 dogs were found to be reactive to 20 or more foods. These results suggest that dogs with elevated ROS and clinical issues related to intense itching, scratching, chewing, and bowel irritability had relatively few identified foods as the culprits.