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Summary
Silage quality impacts estrogenic effects. Lactic acid and pH levels significantly influence both plant estrogen levels and their biological activity in animal feed.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Animal Nutrition
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Estrogenic compounds in forage can affect animal health.
- Silage production methods can alter nutrient content and biological activity.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for livestock management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare estrogen levels and estrogenic effects in silage prepared using different methods.
- To investigate the correlation between silage quality parameters and estrogenic activity.
- To identify factors influencing changes in isoflavone content and estrogenic effects.
Main Methods:
- Silage was prepared from grass and red clover using three methods: no additives, green-solution, and molasses.
- Quantified known estrogenic isoflavones (formononetin, biochanin-A, genistein, daidzein) using liquid chromatography.
- Assessed estrogenic effects via bioassay in female rats (uterine weight, vaginal opening, uterine liquid quantity).
- Determined 21 other fodder characteristics through laboratory analysis and estimates.
Main Results:
- Significant correlations were found between fodder characteristics, lactic acid, and estrogenic effects.
- Lactic acid and pH levels significantly affected the quantities of known estrogenic isoflavones.
- Isoflavone quantities and estrogenic effects varied depending on the ensiling method used.
Conclusions:
- Silage preparation methods influence isoflavone content and estrogenic effects.
- Lactic acid and pH are key factors modulating estrogenic activity in silage.
- These findings are important for optimizing silage quality and animal health.