Taurine and Betaine, Alone and in Combination, Mitigate Lysis of Canine Erythrocytes in an In Vitro Model of Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Dog anemia can result in symptoms such as lethargy, reduced appetite, weight loss, and dull coat, and in severe cases, it can become life-threatening. Currently available nutritional supplements for addressing anemia in pets often suffer from low bioavailability and significant side effects. This study investigates the effects of taurine and betaine on the survival and functionality of canine erythrocytes in vitro under conditions of nutritional anemia induced by the iron chelator desferrioxamine (DFO). Our findings indicate that taurine and betaine significantly enhance erythrocyte resilience and functionality in this specific in vitro model of nutritional anemia. Notably, this research sheds light on potential strategies for reducing lysis of canine RBCs in an in vitro model of iron deficiency.