As systemic response acute phase proteins are formed which have different functions in scavenging substances such as bacteries, free hemoglobin, cell remnants, nucleic acids, and in regulating the inflammatory reaction and immune response. The liver is the central organ for acute phase protein synthesis. In the project upregulation of mRNAs is assessed.
Most current assays are without species-specificity, whereas more sensitive methods are required.
To get maximal information of individual subjects, positive and negative blood analytes are combined in an acute phase index. Moreover, meat juice is to be included in studies for application in slaughter environment.