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Morphologic changes in the bovine mammary gland during involution and lactogenesis
1Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Homer 71040.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Bovine mammary involution involves reduced milk synthesis and secretion, with tissue changes reversing before calving. Infection impacts these changes, increasing immune cell activity and antibody production.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Dairy Science
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Bovine mammary involution is a critical physiological process.
- Understanding involution is key for dairy herd health and productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the morphologic changes during bovine mammary involution.
- To compare involution in infected versus uninfected mammary quarters.
Main Methods:
- Weekly biopsy specimens from 5 cows were analyzed using light and electron microscopy.
- Morphometric analysis quantified changes in epithelial and stromal components.
Main Results:
- Involution showed reduced epithelial synthetic/secretory activity, increased stroma, and decreased lumen size.
- Infected quarters exhibited reduced secretory ability and increased leukocyte infiltration.
- Immune cells like macrophages and neutrophils cleared debris, while plasma cells indicated antibody production.
Conclusions:
- Bovine mammary involution involves significant cellular and tissue remodeling.
- Mammary infections alter involution dynamics, promoting inflammation and immune responses.
- The mammary gland exhibits active immune functions during involution and the periparturient period.