Related Experiment Videos
Secretion composition during bovine mammary involution and the relationship with mastitis
L M Sordillo1, S C Nickerson, R M Akers
1Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Homer 71040.
The International Journal of Biochemistry
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Bovine intramammary infections alter mammary secretion composition during involution and lactogenesis. Reduced antibacterial components during the peripartum period may compromise gland defense.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Intramammary infections (IMIs) are a significant concern in dairy cattle.
- Bovine involution and lactogenesis involve complex physiological changes in mammary secretion.
- Understanding the impact of IMIs on secretion composition during these periods is crucial for udder health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of intramammary infection on the composition of bovine mammary secretion during involution and lactogenesis.
- To identify specific changes in somatic cell counts, biochemical components, and antibacterial factors associated with IMIs.
Main Methods:
- Bacteriological analysis of mammary quarters to identify causative agents of infection.
- Analysis of mammary secretion composition, including somatic cell counts, protein, fat, pH, and specific component concentrations (e.g., albumin, lactoferrin, immunoglobulin G, citrate).
- Comparison of secretion composition between infected and uninfected quarters during involution and lactogenesis.
Main Results:
- Bacteriological analysis identified coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Corynebacterium bovis, or streptococci in 30% of infected quarters.
- During involution, somatic cell counts, protein, pH, albumin, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulin G increased, while fat, citrate, and the citrate to lactoferrin ratio decreased.
- Mammary secretions from infected quarters showed higher somatic cell counts, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and pH, but lower lymphocyte percentages, fat, and lactoferrin compared to uninfected quarters.
Conclusions:
- Intramammary infection significantly alters the normal composition of bovine mammary secretion during involution and lactogenesis.
- Reduced levels of key antibacterial components in mammary secretions during the peripartum period may compromise the gland's natural defense mechanisms against infection.