Methane Emission in Lambs Supplemented with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Infected with Haemonchus contortus

• Grant number: 25/19148-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Animal Husbandry - Animal Production
• Principal Investigator: Helder Louvandini
• Grantee: Henrique de Brito Guedes
• Host Institution: Centro de Energia Nuclear na Agricultura (CENA). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Piracicaba , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micromineral for animal metabolism, playing a key role in the immune system, antioxidant defense, and development. Its deficiency in ruminants may cause growth retardation and increased susceptibility to infections, making daily supplementation necessary. Traditionally supplied as inorganic salts (ZnO and ZnSO¿), Zn in the form of nanoparticles (ZnO-N) has gained interest due to its high bioavailability and absorption. Endoparasite infections, particularly by the nematode Haemonchus contortus, impair the health and productivity of sheep, causing anemia, weight loss, and, in severe cases, death. The presence of the parasite reduces nutrient digestibility and absorption. In addition, methane (CH¿) emission by ruminants is an environmental concern, as this gas significantly contributes to global warming and represents an energy loss for the animals. In vivo techniques are essential to evaluate the effects of ZnO-N supplementation and H. contortus infection on ruminal metabolism and gas production in sheep.