Lipid composition of erythrocytes and thrombocytes of a subantarctic seabird, the king penguin

Abstract

Phospholipid (PL) compositions and fatty acid (FA) patterns of PL were determined in the erythrocytes and blood thrombocytes of a seabird, the king penguin, living in the subantarctic area and feeding on prey rich in n-3 polyunsaturated FA. Results were compared between birds in three different physiological states (breeding and molting adults, chicks) to those reported for other birds. In erythrocytes, the ratios of cholesterol to PL and of sphingomyelin to phosphatidylcholine (PC) were lower than in other birds. The PL distribution was similar to those previously reported in the hen and pigeon. In contrast to other birds, cardiolipin levels were unexpectedly high (4%). Very long chain n-3 FA were abundant (13-27%) in phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylserine and PC, probably in relation to the natural diet of these birds. Among n-3 FA, 22:6n-3 was the most abundant in all PL (2-20%), whereas the highest levels of arachidonic acid were observed in PE (14%). In thrombocytes, the PL distribution and FA composition of the main PL (PC, PE) differed from those of erythrocytes, and in particular, levels of n-3 FA (9-12%) were 1.5-2 times lower. The highest levels of arachidonic acid were found in phosphatidylinositol (24%). The lipid profile of penguin erythrocytes could contribute to the efficiency of blood circulation and oxygen delivery in microvascular beds, thus favoring diving capacity of these animals. Our observations do not support the hypothesis of a common origin of avian thrombocytes and erythrocytes.

Influence of Plasma Lipid Composition on Activity of Factors V, VII and X in Single Comb White Leghorn and Fatty Liver Haemorrhagic Syndrome-Susceptible Laying Hens

“…It is noteworthy that in studies looking at thrombocyte-poor plasma, PS was not detected (Christie and Moore, 1972;Thomson et al, 2003). This is in agreement with our study and Fayolle et al (2000), where PS was present in thrombocyte-rich plasma. By using thrombocyterich plasma, we were able to detect specific phospholipids and fatty acids and correlate them with clotting activity.…”