1
|
Leitner G, Blum SE, Krifucks O, Lavon Y, Jacoby S, Seroussi E. Alternative Traits for Genetic Evaluation of Mastitis Based on Lifetime Merit. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:92. [PMID: 38254981 PMCID: PMC10815296 DOI: 10.3390/genes15010092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetic selection has achieved little progress in reducing mastitis incidence. Mastitis traits are problematic due to the lack of sensitivity of the data and reliance on clinical diagnosis, often missing subclinical cases, and/or on monthly somatic cell count (SCC) measurements. The current measure for mastitis is the lactation average of the somatic cells score (LSCS). We studied two datasets: (1) 148 heifers divided into non-intramammary infected, sub-clinically infected and clinical mastitis groups; (2) data from 89,601 heifers from Israeli Holsteins through the same period divided into "udder healthy" (UH) and "non-healthy" (UNH) by a threshold of SCC 120,000 cells/mL in all nine monthly milk recordings. In study 1, non-infected heifers had significantly (p < 0.05) more partum, production days and overall lifetime milk production compared to clinical and sub-clinically infected. In study 2, UH heifers (20.3%) had significantly higher (p < 0.01) lifetime milk, production days, and lactations. Subdividing datasets by sires, the same analyses detected differences in percentages of UH daughters between the sire groups. Lifetime milk production correlated (r = +0.83, p < 0.001) with udder health status. SCC threshold of less than 120,000 cells/mL during all first lactation measurements indicated healthy udder, providing a valuable insight that this dichotomous trait is advantageous for calculating lifetime net-merit index (NM$) over LSCS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Leitner
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; (G.L.); (S.E.B.)
| | - Shlomo E. Blum
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; (G.L.); (S.E.B.)
| | - Oleg Krifucks
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel; (G.L.); (S.E.B.)
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea 3781500, Israel;
| | - Shamay Jacoby
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), HaMaccabim Road, Rishon LeTsiyon 7528809, Israel
| | - Eyal Seroussi
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), HaMaccabim Road, Rishon LeTsiyon 7528809, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lavon Y, Weller JI, Zeron Y, Ezra E. Estimating the Effect of the Kappa Casein Genotype on Milk Coagulation Properties in Israeli Holstein Cows. Animals (Basel) 2023; 14:54. [PMID: 38200785 PMCID: PMC10778097 DOI: 10.3390/ani14010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In Israel, about 26% of produced milk is used to produce hard cheeses and 29% for soft cheeses. Milk with preferred coagulation properties requires a shorter coagulation time and yields a higher curd firmness than milk with inferior coagulation properties. Studies have shown that milk from cows with the B allele of kappa casein (κ-CN) produces more cheese than milk from those with A and E alleles. There is evidence that milk from AE or EE genotype cows is unsuitable for cheese production. In the early 1990s, the proportion of the B allele in Israeli Holstein cattle was about 17%, similar to its prevalence in the Holstein population worldwide. In recent years, however, its proportion has increased to about 40%. We analyzed milk coagulation properties as a function of the cow's κ-CN genotype, including time in minutes until the beginning of coagulation and curd firmness after 60 min-measured in volts via an optigraph device and scored on a scale of 0-4 by a laboratory technician. Cow selection was based on their sire's genotype, so that there would be sufficient genotypes that include the rare E allele. A total of 359 cows were sampled from 15 farms: 64 with genotype AA, 142 with AB, 41 with AE, 65 with BB, and 47 with BE. Data were analyzed via the general linear model procedure of SAS. We found the following: (a) There were significant differences between genotypes for optigraph-measured curd firmness. In a multi-comparison test, the BB genotype gave the highest curd firmness, and AB and BE showed a significant advantage compared to AA and AE (9.4, 8.6, 8.4, 6.9, 6.8 V, respectively). Assuming a frequency of about 55% for the A allele, about 30% of the milk delivered to dairy plants comes from AA cows. (b) There was a significant difference between the genotypes in technician-observed curd firmness, with BB scoring significantly higher than AA and AE. (c) The optigraph-measured curd firmness was significantly higher for milk from primiparous cows as compared to milk from second, third, or fourth lactation cows (8.9, 7.8, 7.9, 7.7 V, respectively). The technician-observed curd firmness was significantly higher for primiparous vs. multiparous cows. There was a clear advantage in curd firmness for genotypes that included the B allele compared to those with AA and AE genotypes. We can increase the proportion of the B allele in the population by insemination of cows using bulls with the genotypes AB and BB. This factor should therefore be included in the selection index.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesaria Industrial Park, Caesarea 38900, Israel; (J.I.W.)
| | - Joel I. Weller
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesaria Industrial Park, Caesarea 38900, Israel; (J.I.W.)
| | - Yoel Zeron
- Sion Artificial Insemination Center, Gadara 7057102, Israel;
| | - Ephraim Ezra
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesaria Industrial Park, Caesarea 38900, Israel; (J.I.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Daddam JR, Daniel D, Kra G, Pelech I, Portnick Y, Moallem U, Lavon Y, Zachut M. Plant polyphenol extract supplementation affects performance, welfare, and the Nrf2-oxidative stress response in adipose tissue of heat-stressed dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9807-9821. [PMID: 37641328 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
We examined the effects of a supplement of plant polyphenols extracts of green tea, capsicum, and fenugreek, and electrolytes ([Na+, K+]; AXT, Axion ThermoPlus, CCPA, France] during summer heat load on production, welfare, and oxidative stress proteins in adipose tissue (AT) of dairy cows. A total of 42 multiparous mid-lactation cows were divided into 3 groups during summer, and were fed for 2 wk either a standard milking cow diet (CTL, n = 14) or diets supplemented with 100 g/d of AXT (100AXT, n = 14), or 150 g/d of AXT (150AXT, n = 14), while being cooled 5 times a day. Then, half of the cows from each dietary treatment were cooled (CL) or not cooled (NCL) for 2 wk, after which the cooled and uncooled groups were switched for additional 2 wk. Cows were milked 3 times a day, and milk composition was analyzed at the end of each 2-wk period. Vaginal temperature (VT) was measured for 3 consecutive days in each period. Biopsies of subcutaneous AT were taken from 10 NCL cows (5 each of CTL and 150AXT) at the end of the period and examined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry proteomics analysis. Data were analyzed with PROC MIXED of SAS (version 9.2, SAS Institute Inc.). The model included the effects of dietary treatment, cooling regimen, period, and their interactions. Protein and mRNA abundances and proteomic data (P ≤ 0.05 and fold change [FC] ± 1.5) were analyzed by t-test. Milk yields and 4% fat-corrected milk (FCM) were higher in 100AXT than in CTL; milk components were not different. Dry matter intake (DMI) was higher in 100AXT than in CTL. The effect of cooling and the interactions of period × cooling were significant for DMI, 4% FCM, energy-corrected milk, and milk/DMI. The proportion of time that VT was >39°C was lower in 100AXT and in 150AXT than in CTL. Daily rumination time was greater in 150AXT than in CTL, and lying time was greater in 100AXT and 150AXT than in CTL. Proteomics of AT demonstrated that 150AXT had increased abundances of peroxidasin (FC = 1.6), microsomal glutathione S-transferase 2 (FC = 2.5), and heme oxygenase 1 (FC = 3.6) compared with CTL. Top enriched canonical pathways included acute phase response signaling, Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress response, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/IL-1-mediated inhibition of RXR function. Immunoblots of AT showed a higher abundance of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 and of LPS binding protein in AT of 150AXT compared with CTL. Supplementation of AXT increased DMI, milk, and 4% FCM, lowered VT, improved welfare indices, and enriched the AT with Nrf2-oxidative stress response and acute phase response proteins in heat-stressed dairy cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J R Daddam
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Science, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - D Daniel
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Science, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel; Department of Animal Science, the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100001, Israel
| | - G Kra
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Science, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel; Department of Animal Science, the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100001, Israel
| | - I Pelech
- Department of Cattle, Extension Service, Ministry of Agriculture, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Y Portnick
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Science, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - U Moallem
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Science, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Y Lavon
- Israeli Cattle Board Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel
| | - M Zachut
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Science, Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lavon Y, Ezra E, Friedgut O, Behar A. Economic Aspects of Bovine Ephemeral Fever (BEF) Outbreaks in Dairy Cattle Herds. Vet Sci 2023; 10:645. [PMID: 37999468 PMCID: PMC10674311 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10110645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Bovine ephemeral fever virus (BEFV) is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) transmitted by blood-feeding insects (mosquitoes and Culicoides biting midges). While the dispersal of arboviral diseases such as bovine ephemeral fever (BEF) into naive areas is often the result of globalization and animal movement, the endemization and local outbreaks of these diseases are mainly influenced by environmental changes. Climate change affects the activity, distribution, dynamics, and life cycles of these vectors (arthropods), the replication of viruses within their vectors, and weakens animal's immune systems. Although BEF does not currently occur in the Americas and Europe (other than in the western regions of Turkey), the risk of BEFV emergence, spread, and endemization in Europe is real. Over the past two decades, arboviruses such as the bluetongue virus (BTV) and Schmallenberg virus (SBV) have emerged in Europe without warning and caused significant losses to the dairy and meat industries. Since the European cattle population has never been exposed to BEFV, the economic losses to dairy and beef production in this continent due to the reduction in milk production, loss of valuable cows, and abortion, should BEF emerge, would probably be considerable. Moreover, arboviruses can also cause substantial financial damage due to restrictions on animal trade and transportation, like the current EHDV-8 outbreak in the Mediterranean basin. In this study, we used national data stored in the Israeli herd book to examine the economic aspects of BEF outbreaks in affected dairy cattle farms countrywide. Our results demonstrate that BEF outbreaks can have immediate and delayed effects, causing severe economic losses due to culling (loss of valuable cows) and a reduction in milk production that affects dairy farm income for months after clinical diagnosis. To our knowledge, this is the first extensive study on the impact of a BEF outbreak at a population level, enabling to conduct accurate risk assessments in future cases of BEFV emergence and re-emergence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel; (Y.L.); (E.E.)
| | - Ephraim Ezra
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel; (Y.L.); (E.E.)
| | - Orly Friedgut
- Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel;
| | - Adi Behar
- Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Blum SE, Krifuks O, Weisblith L, Fleker M, Lavon Y, Zuckerman A, Hefer Y, Goldhor O, Gilad D, Schcolnic T, Leitner G. Evaluation of acoustic pulse technology as a non-antibiotic therapy for bovine intramammary infections: Assessing bacterial cure vs. recovery from inflammation. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1079269. [PMID: 36992975 PMCID: PMC10040550 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1079269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major threat to human and animal health. Therefore, new solutions are needed to prevent returning to a world without effective antibiotics. Mastitis in dairy cows is a major reason for antimicrobial use in food animal production, and mastitis-causing bacteria have the potential to develop AMR. In this study, acoustic pulse technology (APT) was explored as an alternative to antimicrobials for the treatment of mastitis in dairy cows. APT involves the local transmission of mechanical energy through soundwaves which stimulate anti-inflammatory and angiogenic responses in the udder. These responses promote udder recovery and enhance resistance to bacterial infections.MethodsWe examined 129 Israeli dairy cows with mastitis in this prospective, controlled study to assess the efficiency of APT treatment on cure and recovery rates. An accurate diagnosis of suspected or confirmed infectious mastitis was made from cows having clinical signs of mastitis and/or somatic cell count (SCC) of above 400,000 cells/mL. The cows were divided into three groups: Group 1 (n = 29), cows with no bacterial findings (NBF); Group 2 (n = 82), cows with clinical signs of mastitis or SCC >400,000 cells/mL in the most recent test; and Group 3 (n = 18), cows with chronic mastitis (two or more tests with SCC >400,000 cells/mL within 3 months). All the cows received APT treatment, which involved 400 pulses on two sides of the infected quarter, delivered in three phases over 3 days. The cure for the mammary gland was indicated by the absence of bacterial growth in post-treatment cultures and recovery by a decrease in SCC to < 250,000 cells/mL in two of three post-treatment tests.Results and discussionIn Group 2, cure and recovery rates were 67.1 and 64.6%, respectively, and were not significantly different between Gram-negative and Gram-positive infections. A similar recovery rate was found in NBF cows. However, in cows with chronic mastitis, both the cure and recovery rates were significantly lower (22.2 and 27.8%, respectively). These results have important implications for dairy farmers, as APT treatment could lead to substantial savings of up to $15,106/year in a 100-cow herd, considering the national estimated prevalence of mastitis and the cost of individual treatment. APT should be further investigated as a viable and sustainable alternative to antimicrobial therapy for mastitis, offering economic benefits to dairy producers and the possibility of preventing AMR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shlomo Eduardo Blum
- Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
- *Correspondence: Shlomo Eduardo Blum
| | - Oleg Krifuks
- Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Limor Weisblith
- Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Marcelo Fleker
- Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Roth Z, Shiff O, Lavon Y, Kalo D, Wolfenson D. Progesterone supplementation to improve fertility of selected subgroups of lactating cows during the summer and fall. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:943-946. [PMID: 35582955 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
One major cause of low fertility of cows in the summer is progesterone deficiency. We found that insertion of a controlled intravaginal drug-releasing (CIDR) device containing progesterone after artificial insemination (AI) increases pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in cows with uterine disease and low body condition score after calving. Here we treated only these two subgroups, during the summer and autumn. Control (n = 191 AI) and treatment (n = 230 AI) cows were inseminated at estrus and the treated group received a CIDR device on day 5 post-AI, for 14 days. Overall analysis of data during the summer and autumn indicated no significant differences between treatment and control groups. Analysis of the summer data only indicated a significant effect of treatment: P/AI was higher in CIDR-treated vs. control groups (34.2 vs. 19.3%; P < 0.038). Results indicated a 15% increase in P/AI during the summer for CIDR-treated cows in subgroups that had responded positively to the progesterone treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Omri Shiff
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel
| | - Dorit Kalo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - David Wolfenson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Roth Z, Kressel YZ, Lavon Y, Kalo D, Wolfenson D. Administration of GnRH at Onset of Estrus, Determined by Automatic Activity Monitoring, to Improve Dairy Cow Fertility during the Summer and Autumn. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082194. [PMID: 34438650 PMCID: PMC8388439 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) administration at onset of estrus (OE), determined by automatic activity monitoring (AAM), to improve fertility of dairy cows during the summer and autumn. The study was performed on two dairy farms in Israel. The OE was determined by AAM recorded every 2 h, and a single im dose of GnRH analogue was administered shortly after OE. Pregnancy was determined by transrectal palpation, 40 to 45 d after artificial insemination (AI). Conception risk was analyzed by the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. Brief visual observation of behavioral estrus indicated that about three-quarters of the events (n = 40) of visually detected OE occurred within 6 h of AAM-detected OE. Accordingly, the GnRH analogue was administered within 5 h of AAM-detected OE, to overlap with the expected endogenous preovulatory LH surge. Overall, pregnancy per AI (P/AI) was monitored over the entire experimental period (summer and autumn) in 233 first, second or third AI (116 and 117 AI for treated and control groups, respectively). Least square means of P/AI for treated (45.8%) and control (39.4%) groups did not differ, but group-by-season interaction tended to differ (p = 0.07), indicating no effect of treatment in the summer and a marked effect of GnRH treatment (n = 58 AI) compared to controls (n = 59 AI) on P/AI in the autumn (56.6% vs. 28.5%, p < 0.03). During the autumn, GnRH-treated mature cows (second or more lactations), and postpartum cows exhibiting metabolic and uterine diseases, tended to have much larger P/AI than their control counterparts (p = 0.07-0.08). No effect of treatment was recorded in the autumn in first parity cows or in uninfected, healthy cows. In conclusion, administration of GnRH within 5 h of AAM-determined OE improved conception risk in cows during the autumn, particularly in those exhibiting uterine or metabolic diseases postpartum and in mature cows. Incorporation of the proposed GnRH treatment shortly after AAM-detected OE into a synchronization program is suggested, to improve fertility of positively responding subpopulations of cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel; (Z.R.); (Y.Z.K.); (D.K.)
| | - Yaron Z. Kressel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel; (Z.R.); (Y.Z.K.); (D.K.)
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel;
| | - Dorit Kalo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel; (Z.R.); (Y.Z.K.); (D.K.)
| | - David Wolfenson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel; (Z.R.); (Y.Z.K.); (D.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-54-8820700
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Weyl-Feinstein S, Lavon Y, Yaffa Kan N, Weiss-Bakal M, Shmueli A, Ben-Dov D, Malka H, Faktor G, Honig H. Welfare Issues on Israeli Dairy Farms: Attitudes and Awareness of Farm Workers and Veterinary Practitioners. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020294. [PMID: 33498914 PMCID: PMC7912428 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Animal welfare science embraces all factors that might affect the physical and emotional state of the animal, its ability to cope, and its overall quality of life. In recent years, awareness of farm animal welfare has increased among veterinary practitioners—a major professional figure influencing a farm’s routine, farm workers, consumers, and the general public. In particular, the farm worker’s knowledge of animal welfare is an essential component of the rearing system. The aim of this study was to examine attitudes toward and awareness of select animal welfare issues among farm workers and practitioners. A survey was performed based on anonymous questionnaires filled out by dairy farm workers and veterinary practitioners. The results demonstrated that farm workers’ enjoyment of their work is of great importance, as is their cows’ welfare. The survey showed the farm workers’ awareness of their influence on the cow during milking, the effects of stress on milk production, and the possible effect of human behavior on heifers and cows. The main areas where animal welfare might be improved were farmers’ awareness of learning, memory, and pain masking in cattle, and knowledge transfer from veterinary practitioners to the farm workers. The survey answers further emphasized the crucial importance of communication and understanding between farm workers and their practitioners. Abstract Attitudes toward practical dairy cow welfare issues were evaluated based on a questionnaire answered by 500 dairy farm workers and 27 veterinary practitioners. Primarily, the effect of demographic characteristics on attitudes toward cattle welfare was tested. Professionally, five themes were identified: effect of welfare awareness on productivity, knowledge of cattle’s senses and social structure, effects of man–animal interactions on milk yield, pain perception and prevention, and knowledge transfer from veterinary practitioners to farm workers. Farms with a higher welfare awareness score also had higher annual milk yield, with an annual mean difference of 1000 L of milk per cow between farms with higher and lower awareness scores. Veterinary practitioners showed high awareness of cows’ social structure, senses, and pain perception. Farm workers were aware of the influence of man–animal interactions during milking and stress effects on milk yield, and the possible effect of man’s behavior on heifers and cows. Practitioners and farm workers had different views regarding pain perception, mostly involving mutilation procedures. All veterinary practitioners advocated the use of pain alleviation in painful procedures, but only some of them instructed the farm workers to administer it. The survey results emphasize the variation in welfare knowledge and practical applications across farms, and the interest of both the animals and their managers to improve applied knowledge of best practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Weyl-Feinstein
- Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O.B. 12, Bet Dagan, Hamakabim St., Rishon Letzion 7519701, Israel; (M.W.-B.); (A.S.); (D.B.-D.)
- Correspondence: (S.W.-F.); (H.H.)
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders’ Association, P.O.B. 3015, Caesarea Industrial Park 38900, Israel;
| | - Noa Yaffa Kan
- Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, The Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 37, Midreshet Ben Gurion 84990, Israel;
| | - Meytal Weiss-Bakal
- Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O.B. 12, Bet Dagan, Hamakabim St., Rishon Letzion 7519701, Israel; (M.W.-B.); (A.S.); (D.B.-D.)
| | - Ayelet Shmueli
- Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O.B. 12, Bet Dagan, Hamakabim St., Rishon Letzion 7519701, Israel; (M.W.-B.); (A.S.); (D.B.-D.)
| | - Dganit Ben-Dov
- Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O.B. 12, Bet Dagan, Hamakabim St., Rishon Letzion 7519701, Israel; (M.W.-B.); (A.S.); (D.B.-D.)
| | - Hillel Malka
- Extension Service, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O.B. 30, Bet Dagan, Hamakabim St., Rishon Letzion 7519701, Israel;
| | - Gilad Faktor
- Hachaklait Veterinary Services Ltd. Corporation, Bareket St. 20, Caesarea 3097020, Israel;
| | - Hen Honig
- Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O.B. 12, Bet Dagan, Hamakabim St., Rishon Letzion 7519701, Israel; (M.W.-B.); (A.S.); (D.B.-D.)
- Correspondence: (S.W.-F.); (H.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zachut M, Kra G, Nemes-Navon N, Ben-Aharon N, Moallem U, Lavon Y, Jacoby S. Seasonal heat load is more potent than the degree of body weight loss in dysregulating immune function by reducing white blood cell populations and increasing inflammation in Holstein dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:10809-10822. [PMID: 32896401 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of seasonal heat stress and the degree of body weight (BW) loss postpartum (PP) on immune and inflammatory markers in transition dairy cows. Blood sampled twice weekly during the transition period (3 wk prepartum to 3 wk PP) from 12 peripartum Holstein cows in summer and 12 in winter was analyzed for plasma nonesterified fatty acids, the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA), haptoglobin, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Complete blood counts and white blood cell (WBC) subpopulations (CD4, CD8, CD25, WC1, and CD335) were examined weekly during the transition period. Adipose tissue biopsies were taken at 7 d PP from summer-calving cows. In cows calving during seasonal heat stress, plasma TNF-α concentrations were 4.9-fold higher prepartum and 5.1-fold higher PP, and MDA concentrations were higher prepartum and PP than in winter. Hematocrit was lower prepartum and tended to be lower PP in summer compared with winter, and after adjusting to hematocrit values fewer WBC prepartum (-17%) and PP (-22%), lower monocytes prepartum (-37%) and PP (-49%), and fewer neutrophils (-25%) PP were found in summer compared with winter-calving cows. The percentages of cytotoxic T cells (CD8) and natural killer cells (CD335) were lower, as well as prepartum gamma delta-T cells (WC1) in summer compared with winter-calving cows. Moreover, lower red blood cell counts prepartum and mean platelet volume and red blood cell distribution width prepartum and PP, as well as higher hemoglobin prepartum and PP, were found in summer than winter-calving cows. In summer, cows that lost more BW PP had higher plasma MDA and TNF-α concentrations, fewer basophil numbers prepartum, a decrease in the percentage of cells expressing the IL-2 receptor (CD25), increased ratio of T helper cells (CD4):CD8, and a tendency for increased WC1 percentages in blood prepartum, as well as a higher percentage of WC1 PP and higher abundance of TNF-α and lower lipopolysaccharide-binding protein in adipose tissue compared with cows that lost less BW PP. In conclusion, seasonal heat stress during the peripartum period was associated with lower WBC counts coupled with increased levels of subacute inflammation, indicating dysregulation of immune function, whereas the degree of BW loss had minor effects. This suggests that heat load is a more potent stressor associated with immune function than the variation in the degree of BW loss PP in high-yielding peripartum dairy cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Zachut
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, 7505101, Israel.
| | - G Kra
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, 7505101, Israel
| | - N Nemes-Navon
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, 7505101, Israel; The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| | - N Ben-Aharon
- Department of Animal Science, the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - U Moallem
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, 7505101, Israel
| | - Y Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders' Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel
| | - S Jacoby
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Rishon Lezion, 7505101, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Blum SE, Heller DE, Jacoby S, Krifuks O, Merin U, Silanikove N, Lavon Y, Edery N, Leitner G. Physiological response of mammary glands to Escherichia coli infection:A conflict between glucose need for milk production and immune response. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9602. [PMID: 32541828 PMCID: PMC7296043 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66612-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammary immune and physiological responses to distinct mammary-pathogenic E. coli (MPEC) strains were studied. One gland in each of ten cows were challenged intra-mammary and milk composition (lactose, fat, total protein, casein), biochemical (glucose, glucose-6-phosphate (Glu6P), oxalate, malate, lactate, pyruvate and citrate, malate and lactate dehydrogenases, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), nitrite, lactic peroxidase, catalase, albumin, lactoferrin, immunoglobulin) and clotting parameters were followed for 35 days post-challenge. Challenge lead to clinical acute mastitis, with peak bacterial counts in milk at 16-24 h post-challenge. Biochemical and clotting parameters in milk reported were partially in accord with lipopolysaccharide-induced mastitis, but increased Glu6P and LDH activity and prolonged lactate dehydrogenase and Glu6P/Glu alterations were found. Some alterations measured in milk resolved within days after challenge, while others endured for above one month, regardless of bacterial clearance, and some reflected physiological responses to mastitis such as the balance between aerobic and anaerobic metabolism (citrate to lactate ratios). The results suggest that E. coli mastitis can be divided into two stages: an acute, clinical phase, as an immediate response to bacterial infection in the mammary gland, and a chronic phase, independent of bacteria clearance, in response to tissue damage caused during the acute phase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shlomo E Blum
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O.Box 12, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Dan E Heller
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O.Box 12, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Shamay Jacoby
- Institute of Animal Science, A.R.O. The Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel
| | - Oleg Krifuks
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel
| | - Uzi Merin
- Food Quality and Safety, Postharvest and Food Sciences, A.R.O. The Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel
| | - Nissim Silanikove
- Institute of Animal Science, A.R.O. The Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea, 38900, Israel
| | - Nir Edery
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel
| | - Gabriel Leitner
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Behar A, Rot A, Lavon Y, Izhaki O, Gur N, Brenner J. Seasonal and spatial variation in Culicoides community structure and their potential role in transmitting Simbu serogroup viruses in Israel. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67:1222-1230. [PMID: 31869493 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are a successful group of small (1-3 mm) haematophagous flies, some species of which are biological vectors of veterinary arboviruses, such as bluetongue virus, epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus, African horse sickness virus and Simbu serogroup viruses. In this study, we examine seasonal and spatial effects on the presence and distribution of Culicoides communities associated with ruminant and equine farms in Israel, and their infection with Simbu serogroup viruses. Our results demonstrate that both the vectors and the viruses are widely spread in Israel, including regions that were previously considered Culicoides-free. Moreover, our results show that although seasonality affects infection with Simbu serogroup viruses, both viruses and potential vectors can be found year round, suggesting continuous circulation of Simbu serogroup viruses in Israeli livestock farms. Finally, this study provides novel and basic information on Simbu serogroup-infected Culicoides in Israel: it demonstrates that Sathuperi, Shuni and Peaton viruses were circulating in Israel in 2015-2017 as they were found in C. imicola and C. oxystoma, both potential vectors of these viruses, and supplies the first-ever genomic detection of Sathuperi in Israel. Consequently, the data emerging from this study are of importance in understanding the epidemiology of arboviruses in Israel and are of relevance to the potential spread and possible future outbreaks of different Simbu serogroup viruses within the Mediterranean region and Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adi Behar
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan, Israel
| | - Asael Rot
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan, Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders' Association, Caesarea, Israel
| | - Omer Izhaki
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan, Israel
| | - Nadav Gur
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan, Israel
| | - Jacob Brenner
- Division of Parasitology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Beit Dagan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Roth Z, Dvir A, Furman O, Lavon Y, Kalo D, Leitner G, Wolfenson D. Oocyte maturation in plasma or follicular fluid obtained from lipopolysaccharide-treated cows disrupts its developmental competence. Theriogenology 2019; 141:120-127. [PMID: 31536861 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mastitis has deleterious effects on ovarian function and reproductive performance. We studied the association between plasma or follicular fluid (FF) obtained from endotoxin-induced mastitic cows, and oocyte developmental competence. Lactating Holstein cows were synchronized using the Ovsynch protocol. On Day 6 of the synchronized cycle, an additional PGF2α dose was administered, and either Escherichia coli endotoxin (LPS, 10 μg; n = 3 cows) or saline (n = 3 cows) was administered to one udder quarter per cow, 36 h later. Milk samples were collected and rectal temperatures recorded. Cows treated with LPS showed a typical transient increase in body temperature (40.3 °C ± 0.4), whereas cows treated with saline maintained normal body temperature (38.9 °C ± 0.04). A higher (P < 0.05) somatic cell count was recorded for cows treated with LPS. Plasma samples were collected and FF was aspirated from the preovulatory follicles by transvaginal ultrasound probe, 6 h after LPS administration. Radioimmunoassay was performed on plasma samples to determine estradiol and cortisol concentrations. Either FF or plasma was further used as maturation medium. In the first experiment, oocytes were matured in TCM-199 (Control) or in FF aspirated from cows treated with saline (FF-Saline) or LPS (FF-LPS). Cleavage rate to the 2- to 4-cell stage embryo did not differ among groups. However, the proportion of developed blastocysts on Day 7 postfertilization in the FF-LPS group tended to be lower for that in FF-Saline and was lower (P < 0.05) than that in the Control groups (10.6 vs. 22.4 and 24.4%, respectively). In the second experiment, oocytes were matured in TCM-199 (Control), or in plasma obtained from cows treated with saline (Plasma-Saline) or LPS (Plasma-LPS). Similar to the FF findings, cleavage rate did not differ among groups; however, the proportion of developing blastocysts tended to be lower in the Plasma-LPS group than in the Plasma-Saline group and was lower (P < 0.05) from that in the Control group (11.0 vs. 25.5 and 34.7%, respectively). The proportion of apoptotic cells per blastocyst, determined by TUNEL assay, did not differ among the experimental groups. The findings shed light on the mechanism by which mastitis induces a disruption in oocyte developmental competence. Further studies are required to clarify whether the negative effect on oocyte developmental competence is a result of LPS, by itself, or due to elevation of secondary inflammatory agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, 76100, Israel.
| | - Ayala Dvir
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Ori Furman
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Dorit Kalo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Gabriel Leitner
- Mastitis Laboratory, The Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - David Wolfenson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lavon Y, Leitner G, Kressel Y, Ezra E, Wolfenson D. Comparing effects of bovine Streptococcus and Escherichia coli mastitis on impaired reproductive performance. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:10587-10598. [PMID: 31477304 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In 2 epidemiological studies, we evaluated the effect of mastitis induced by gram-positive Streptococcus and gram-negative Escherichia coli on impaired reproductive performance in lactating Holstein cows. In the first study, 52,202 cows from 178 dairy farms throughout Israel were divided into groups based on infection before first artificial insemination (AI) with Streptococcus or E. coli, 3 groups with elevated somatic cell count (SCC) without infection by those pathogens [low SCC (200-400) × 103 cell/mL; medium SCC (401-1,000) × 103 cell/mL; high SCC, >1,000 × 103 cell/mL], and uninfected controls. Pregnancy per first AI (P/1stAI) and pregnancy rate at 300 d in milk (PREG 300) were analyzed by the GLIMMIX procedure (SAS); number of AI per pregnancy (AI/P), days open, and rest days (calving to first AI) were analyzed by the MIXED procedure (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). Values of P/1stAI were similarly low for Streptococcus and E. coli (27-28%) versus 42% in controls; PREG 300 was lower for Streptococcus (76%) than for E. coli (79%) versus 88% for uninfected controls and a mean 83% for the elevated SCC groups. Days open and number of AI/P were higher than in controls and similar in Streptococcus and E. coli groups. The second study included 778 cows on 6 dairy farms; the cows were infected before first AI by Streptococcus or E. coli or uninfected. Resumption of cyclicity was determined by an automated activity-monitoring system, and data were sorted by time of infection before or after cyclicity resumed. The Streptococcus group had lower P/1stAI before and after cyclicity (26 and 27%, respectively) than the E. coli group (31 and 34%, respectively) and uninfected controls (42%). Notably, PREG 300 in the Streptococcus group before (73%) and after (67%) cyclicity was much lower than for the E. coli group (85 and 93%, respectively) and the controls (95%). A marked rise in day of cyclicity resumption (∼80 d) was observed in cows that were infected early on. Number of AI/P was higher in the mastitic groups than in uninfected controls. Uterine disease postpartum, although more prevalent among Streptococcus cows, did not substantially alter the larger reduction in P/1stAI and PREG 300 in Streptococcus versus E. coli cows. Thus, long-term Streptococcus-induced mastitis disrupted fertility more than short-term acute E. coli-induced mastitis, resulting in a much higher percentage of Streptococcus cows in late lactation that did not conceive due to reproduction failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders' Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel.
| | - G Leitner
- Mastitis Laboratory, the Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Y Kressel
- Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - E Ezra
- Israel Cattle Breeders' Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel
| | - D Wolfenson
- Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Leitner G, Lavon Y, Merin U, Jacoby S, Blum SE, Krifucks O, Silanikove N. Milk quality and milk transformation parameters from infected mammary glands depends on the infecting bacteria species. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213817. [PMID: 31260459 PMCID: PMC6602173 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study measured the influence of milk of subclinically infected glands by different bacteria species on the cow’s milk. The effects of bacterial infection or inflammation on gland milk yield were related to the bacteria species that caused the infection. The volume of milk of the inflamed gland from the cow’s milk yield was significantly lower (P<0.001) for the glands previously infected by Escherichia coli (PIEc) and those infected with Streptococcus dysgalactiae. Coagulation properties, rennet clotting time (RCT) and curd firmness (CF) also depended on the bacteria causing the infection. RCT values of all the inflamed glands were significantly longer (P<0.001) and CF values were significantly lower than that of the healthy ones. Moreover, in the whole milk, CF was also significantly lower and not proportional to the volume of the milk from the inflamed gland of the cow’s milk. Calculation of the predicted 40% dry matter curd weight (PCW) on the cow level, including the healthy and inflamed glands or the healthy glands alone, showed that for 10 of 13 PIEc cows, the presence of the affected gland’s milk in the whole cow milk resulted in a lower PCW value. Likewise, 7 of 20 cows infected by S. dysgalactiae had negative delta values. Unlike the latter bacteria, PCW from milk of glands infected with CNS increased, although in a lower magnitude than in the healthy glands. No correlation was found between logSCC in the whole cow milk (healthy and inflamed glands) and PCW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Leitner
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
- * E-mail:
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea, Israel
| | - Uzi Merin
- Institute of Technology and Storage of Agricultural Products, The Volcani Center Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Shamay Jacoby
- Institute of Animal Science, A.R.O., The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Shlomo E. Blum
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Oleg Krifucks
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Nissim Silanikove
- Institute of Animal Science, A.R.O., The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Seroussi E, Blum SE, Krifucks O, Lavon Y, Leitner G. Application of pancreatic phospholipase A2 for treatment of bovine mastitis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203132. [PMID: 30148880 PMCID: PMC6110515 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings have indicated that secreted phospholipases A2 (sPLA2s) have anti-inflammatory functions, including relief of symptoms in a mouse model of mastitis. This prompted us to investigate the therapeutic application of sPLA2, PLA2G1B, for bovine mastitis. Initial testing of PLA2G1B's effect on bovine mammary epithelial cell (bMEC) line PS revealed no changes in cell viability or cytokine-secretion pattern. However, when cells were first treated with lipopolysaccharide endotoxin (LPS) or live bacteria (Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus aureus), incubation with PLA2G1B significantly improved cell viability, suggesting involvement of sPLA2s in protecting membranes from lipid-peroxidation damage, rather than a bactericidal action. When PLA2G1B was applied simultaneously with LPS, a significant short-term reduction in interleukin-8 secretion was observed compared with bMECs treated only with LPS, supporting previous reports that PLA2G1B affects interleukin-8 signaling in similar cells. Following the favorable outcome of the in vitro experiments, we tested PLA2G1B in vivo by mammary infusion into infected glands. In one of a small sample (n = 4) of lactating cows chronically infected with Streptococcus dysgalactiae, a single PLA2G1B treatment completely cleared inflammation and bacteria, demonstrating its potential to cure subclinical mastitis. PLA2G1B treatment did not affect coagulase-negative staphylococci infection. These types of mastitis may involve formation of a resistant biofilm, and its elimination may relate to sPLA2s' characteristic ability to aggregate with cellular debris, facilitating their internalization by macrophages. In a bovine model of clinical mastitis based on introduction of E. coli via the streak canal, a single mammary infusion of PLA2G1B led to faster recovery to pre-infection milk-yield levels and decrease of somatic cell counts. In this case, all of sPLA2s' modes of resolving inflammation may apply, including competitive binding of the sPLA2s’ receptor, the inactivation of which confers resistance to endotoxic shock. Hence, this study strongly supports further research into PLA2G1B as a cure for bovine mastitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eyal Seroussi
- Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), Rishon LeTsiyon, Israel
- * E-mail:
| | - Shlomo E. Blum
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Oleg Krifucks
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea, Israel
| | - Gabriel Leitner
- National Mastitis Reference Center, Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wolfenson D, Leitner G, Lavon Y. The Disruptive Effects of Mastitis on Reproduction and Fertility in Dairy Cows. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2015.4125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
17
|
Lavon Y, Kaim M, Leitner G, Biran D, Ezra E, Wolfenson D. Two approaches to improve fertility of subclinical mastitic dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2016; 99:2268-2275. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-9745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
18
|
Silanikove N, Shapiro F, Merin U, Lavon Y, Blum SE, Leitner G. Reduced use of glucose by normoxic cow's mammary gland under acute inflammation: an example of homeostatic aerobic glycolysis. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra22934d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The concentration of glucose and glucose-derived carbons in milk reflect their concentrations in the mammary epithelial cell cytosol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nissim Silanikove
- Department of Ruminant Science
- Animal Science
- The Volcani Center
- Bet Dagan 50250
- Israel
| | - Fira Shapiro
- Department of Ruminant Science
- Animal Science
- The Volcani Center
- Bet Dagan 50250
- Israel
| | - Uzi Merin
- Food Quality and Safety
- Postharvest and Food Sciences
- The Volcani Center
- Bet Dagan 50250
- Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association
- Caesarea
- Israel
| | - Shlomo E. Blum
- National Mastitis Reference Center
- Kimron Veterinary Institute
- Bet Dagan 50250
- Israel
| | - Gabriel Leitner
- National Mastitis Reference Center
- Kimron Veterinary Institute
- Bet Dagan 50250
- Israel
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Biran D, Braw-Tal R, Gendelman M, Lavon Y, Roth Z. ACTH administration during formation of preovulatory follicles impairs steroidogenesis and angiogenesis in association with ovulation failure in lactating cows. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2015; 53:52-9. [PMID: 26099839 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Ovulation failure, follicular persistence, and formation of follicular cysts are known to impair dairy cow fertility. Although the underlying mechanism is not entirely clear, stress-induced alteration in adrenal hormone secretion can cause these ovarian pathologies. Six synchronized lactating cows were scanned daily by ultrasound, and plasma samples were taken throughout the estrous cycle. Treatment cows (n = 3) were administered with ACTH analog every 12 h from day 15 to day 21 of the cycle to induce formation of follicular cysts. Ovaries were collected at the slaughterhouse on day 23 of the cycle before appearance of follicular pathologies. Control cows (n = 3) were administered placebo, resynchronized, and administered PGF2α on day 6 of the new cycle to induce development of a preovulatory follicle. Follicular fluid was aspirated from the preovulatory follicles of each group to determine their steroid milieu. Slices were taken from the follicular wall for total messenger (m) RNA isolation and semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Administration of ACTH increased (P < 0.02) plasma cortisol concentration and reduced (P < 0.01) milk production. Androstenedione and estradiol concentrations in the follicular fluids were lower (P < 0.05) in ACTH-treated follicles than those in controls. The mRNA expression of luteinizing hormone receptor, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450arom), and cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase (P450c17) were lower (P < 0.02) in the ACTH-treated vs control cows. On the other hand, the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage did not differ between groups. In addition, mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)120 and VEGF164 was higher (P < 0.01) in control than in ACTH-treated follicles, but that for angiopoietin-1 and 2 did not differ between groups. Findings indicated that ACTH administration throughout preovulatory follicle development alters follicular steroidogenesis in association with impaired angiogenesis. Such alterations might explain, in part, the mechanism underlying ovulation failure and the formation of persistent or cystic follicles under stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Biran
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - R Braw-Tal
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - M Gendelman
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Y Lavon
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Z Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Roth Z, Asaf S, Furman O, Lavon Y, Kalo D, Wolfenson D, Leitner G. Subclinical mastitis disrupts oocyte cytoplasmic maturation in association with reduced developmental competence and impaired gene expression in preimplantation bovine embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 28:RD14431. [PMID: 25891636 DOI: 10.1071/rd14431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Subclinical chronic mastitis was induced to examine the effects on oocyte developmental competence. Uninfected Holstein cows were intramammary administrated with serial (every 48h for 20 days) low doses of toxin of Staphylococcus aureus origin (Gram-positive; G+), endotoxin of Escherichia coli origin (Gram-negative; G-) or sterile saline (control). Follicular fluid of toxin- and saline-treated cows was aspirated from preovulatory follicles and used as maturation medium. Oocytes harvested from ovaries collected at the abattoir were matured and then fertilised and cultured for 8 days. The percentage of oocytes undergoing nuclear maturation, determined by meiotic nuclear stages, did not differ between groups. Cytoplasmic maturation, determined by cortical granule distribution, was affected by both toxins (PPPPTGS2) mRNA increased, whereas that of growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) decreased in matured oocytes. In addition, PTGS2 expression increased and POU class 5 homeobox 1 (POU5F1) expression decreased in 4-cell embryos developed from both G+ and G- oocytes. Thus, regardless of toxin type, subclinical mastitis disrupts oocyte cytoplasmic maturation and alters gene expression in association with reduced developmental competence.
Collapse
|
21
|
Asaf S, Leitner G, Furman O, Lavon Y, Kalo D, Wolfenson D, Roth Z. Effects of Escherichia coli- and Staphylococcus aureus-induced mastitis in lactating cows on oocyte developmental competence. Reproduction 2014; 147:33-43. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Mastitis is associated with decreased fertility in dairy cows. In the current study, we created an experimental model to simulate short-term mastitis by a single intramammary administration of Gram-negative endotoxin ofEscherichia coliorigin (G−), or Gram-positive toxin ofStaphylococcus aureusorigin (G+), to examine the effect of mastitis on oocyte developmental competence. Healthy Holstein cows were synchronized, and follicular fluid (FF) of cows treated with G+ or G− and of uninfected cows (controls) was aspirated from the preovulatory follicles by transvaginal ultrasound procedure. The aspirated FF was used as maturation medium forin vitroembryo production. The distribution of matured oocytes into different cortical granule classes and meiotic stages was affected by G− administration (P<0.05) but not by G+ administration. The proportion of oocytes that cleaved to two- and four-cell stage embryos (44 h postfertilization) was lower in both G+ and G− groups than in controls (P<0.05). Blastocyst formation rate (7–8 days postfertilization) was lower in the G− group (P<0.05) and numerically lower in the G+ group compared with their uninfected counterparts. The total cell number in blastocysts did not differ among groups; however, the apoptotic index was higher in the G+ group (P<0.05), but not in the G− group, relative to controls. Examining mRNA relative abundance in oocytes and early embryos revealed mastitis-induced alterations inPTGS2(COX2),POU5F1, andHSF1but not inSLC2A1(GLUT1) orGDF9. Results indicate a differential disruptive effect of mastitis induced by G− and G+ on oocyte developmental competence in association with alterations in maternal gene expression.
Collapse
|
22
|
Roth Z, Dvir A, Kalo D, Lavon Y, Krifucks O, Wolfenson D, Leitner G. Naturally occurring mastitis disrupts developmental competence of bovine oocytes. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:6499-505. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2013-6903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
23
|
Glick G, Hogeg M, Moallem U, Lavon Y, Wolfenson D. Follicular characteristics and luteal development after follicle-stimulating hormone induced multiple ovulations in heifers. J Anim Sci 2012; 91:188-94. [PMID: 23097398 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A protocol based on small doses of FSH was examined for the induction of double or triple (multiple) ovulations in cattle. Ovulation rate, follicular characteristics, and luteal responses were determined. In Exp. 1, three groups of estrous-synchronized, cyclic Holstein heifers were treated once daily, on d 3 to 6 of the cycle, with a FSH product (Folltropin-V): large FSH dose (total of 150 mg; n=18), medium FSH dose (total of 130 mg, n=12), and small FSH dose (total of 80 mg; n=7). Controls received saline (n=6). Prostaglandin F(2α) was injected on d 6, ultrasound-guided aspiration of surplus follicles (if needed) was performed on d 7, and GnRH was injected on d 8 to induce ovulation. The large FSH dose induced growth of more (2.6±0.3, P<0.05) large follicles than controls on d 8; medium and small FSH doses insufficiently stimulated growth of <2 large follicles. Ovulation rates were determined in subgroups of heifers (n=10, 13, 4, and 6, respectively). The large FSH dose induced greater rates (P<0.01) of mostly double and triple ovulations (90% multiple ovulations, 70% double ovulations), most of which (89%) were bilateral, with only 2 out of 10 heifers requiring aspiration of surplus follicles. Medium and small FSH doses induced fewer multiple ovulations (38% and 25%, respectively). Estradiol concentrations on d 8 did not differ among treatments, but the concentration per large follicle in controls was greater (P<0.05) than in FSH treatments. Mean corpus luteum (CL) volume in single-ovulation controls was greater (P<0.05) than that of multiple ovulations in the large FSH group and total CL volume and progesterone concentrations were numerically greater in multiple ovulations. In Exp. 2, the characteristics of follicles aspirated on d 7 from large FSH (n=11) and control heifers (n=10) were compared. Based on estradiol-to-progesterone ratio, 57% of the large FSH-treated follicles were classified as codominant/healthy follicles and 43% as subordinate/early atretic. Although concentrations of estradiol and androstenedione in FSH-treated codominant follicles were less (P<0.05) than in controls, estradiol-to-progesterone ratio indicated that those follicles were steroidogenically active. Finely tuned small doses of FSH administered during the first follicular wave can induce a large incidence of double/triple, mainly bilateral, ovulations in cattle, which may serve as a basis for treatment aimed at promoting twinning in beef cattle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Glick
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Roth Z, Biran D, Lavon Y, Dafni I, Yakobi S, Braw-Tal R. Endocrine milieu and developmental dynamics of ovarian cysts and persistent follicles in postpartum dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2012; 95:1729-37. [PMID: 22459821 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2011-4513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian follicular cysts and persistent follicles are follicular pathologies involved in reduced fertility of dairy cows. Two separate experiments were performed on high-yielding Holstein cows to characterize ovarian cyclicity and evaluate the developmental dynamics of follicle pathologies postpartum. In experiment 1, 58 cows were monitored by ultrasonography twice weekly from d 18±1 to 69±2 postpartum. First ovulation occurred 38±3, 27±2, 20±1, and 25±3 d postpartum in cows with 1 cycle (n=11), 2 cycles (n=21), 3 cycles (n=13), and 4 cycles (n=7), respectively. Follicular pathologies were developed in cows that were either acyclic (n=6) or had 1 or 2 cycles, but not in cows with more than 2 cycles. In experiment 2, 47 cows were monitored twice weekly from 10 d postpartum to second ovulation. Follicles ≥17 mm in diameter in 2 consecutive scans were aspirated, and concentrations of various hormones were measured. Cows were defined as cyclic (n=30; 64%) or with the potential to develop follicular pathology (n=17; 36%). Aspirated follicles (n=27) were classified into 3 main groups based on follicular growth rate, follicular diameter, and ovarian activity before and after follicular aspiration. Dominant follicles (n=4) were defined as large follicles (20 mm in diameter) with growth rate ≤1 mm/d and normal ovarian activity. Persistent follicles (n=6) had the same growth rate and diameter as the dominant follicles, but persisted at the same diameter for ≥10 d. Ovarian cysts (n=17) were defined as the largest follicular structures (19 to 32 mm in diameter), with abnormal growth rate (>1 mm/d) and abnormal ovarian activity. Single or turnover cysts did not differ in their growth parameters and were therefore combined and further classified according to follicular-fluid hormone concentrations. Estradiol-dominant cysts (n=7) were characterized by normal estradiol (284 to 659 ng/mL) and progesterone (20 to 113 ng/mL) concentrations, similar to those of the dominant follicle (554 to 993 ng/mL and 44 to 106 ng/mL, respectively). Progesterone-dominant cysts (n=5) were characterized by low estradiol (0.06 to 330 ng/mL) and high progesterone (586 to 3,288 ng/mL) concentrations. Low-steroidogenic active cysts (n=5) were characterized by low concentrations of both estradiol (23 to 61 ng/mL) and progesterone (17 to 205 ng/mL). Characterization of spontaneously forming cysts might enable definition of the formation of ovarian follicular pathologies in postpartum cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Z Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Friedman E, Roth Z, Voet H, Lavon Y, Wolfenson D. Progesterone supplementation postinsemination improves fertility of cooled dairy cows during the summer. J Dairy Sci 2012; 95:3092-9. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2011-5017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
26
|
Lavon Y, Ezra E, Leitner G, Wolfenson D. Association of conception rate with pattern and level of somatic cell count elevation relative to time of insemination in dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2011; 94:4538-45. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2011-4293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 05/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
27
|
Lavon Y, Leitner G, Moallem U, Klipper E, Voet H, Jacoby S, Glick G, Meidan R, Wolfenson D. Immediate and carryover effects of Gram-negative and Gram-positive toxin-induced mastitis on follicular function in dairy cows. Theriogenology 2011; 76:942-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2010] [Revised: 05/02/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
28
|
Lavon Y, Leitner G, Klipper E, Moallem U, Meidan R, Wolfenson D. Subclinical, chronic intramammary infection lowers steroid concentrations and gene expression in bovine preovulatory follicles. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2011; 40:98-109. [PMID: 21163607 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2010.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2010] [Revised: 09/14/2010] [Accepted: 09/16/2010] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Chronic, subclinical intramammary infection depresses fertility. We previously found that 30% of subclinical mastitic cows exhibit delayed ovulation, low circulating estradiol levels, and delayed luteinizing hormone surge. We examined the function of preovulatory follicles of cows experiencing subclinical mastitis or a past event of acute clinical mastitis. Cows were diagnosed for mastitis by somatic cell count and bacteriological examination. All clinical infections were caused by Escherichia coli, and most subclinical infections were caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae and coagulase-negative staphylococci. On day 6 of the cycle, cows received PGF2α; 42 h later, follicular fluids and granulosa cells or theca cells were aspirated from preovulatory follicles in vivo or following slaughter, respectively. Overall, follicular estradiol and androstenedione concentrations in the subclinical group (n = 28) were 40% lower (P < 0.05) than those in uninfected cows (n = 24) and lower than in past clinical mastitic cows (n = 9). Distribution analysis revealed a clear divergence among subclinical cows: one-third (9/28) exhibited low follicular estradiol; the other two-thirds had normal levels similar to all uninfected (P < 0.01) and most clinical cows (P < 0.08) that had normal follicular estradiol levels. Subclinical normal-estradiol cows had twofold higher (P < 0.05) circulating estradiol concentrations and sevenfold and fourfold higher (P < 0.05) follicular androstenedione levels and estradiol-to-progesterone ratio, respectively, than subclinical low-estradiol cows. Follicular progesterone level was not affected. Reduced expression (P < 0.05) of LHCGR in theca and granulosa cells, CYP11A1 (mRNA and protein) and CYP17A1 in theca cells, and CYP19A1 in granulosa cells may have contributed to the lower follicular steroid production in the subclinical low-estradiol subgroup. StAR and HSD3B1 in theca cells and FSHR in granulosa cells were not affected. Mastitis did not alter follicular growth dynamics, and no carryover effect of past clinical mastitis on follicular function was detected. These data indicate that a considerable proportion (one-third) of subclinical mastitic cows have abnormal follicular steroidogenesis, which can explain the reproductive failure associated with this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Lavon
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Friedman E, Glick G, Lavon Y, Roth Z. Effects of low-dose follicle-stimulating hormone administration on follicular dynamics and preovulatory follicle characteristics in dairy cows during the summer. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2010; 39:106-15. [PMID: 20399062 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2010.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2010] [Revised: 02/26/2010] [Accepted: 02/26/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The well-documented phenomenon of reduced conception rate in dairy cows during the hot season involves impaired functioning of the ovarian follicles and their enclosed oocytes. Three experiments were performed to examine the administration of low doses of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to induce turnover of follicles that are damaged upon summer thermal stress and to examine whether this FSH administration has beneficial effects on preovulatory follicles. In experiment 1, synchronized heifers were treated with 100 mg of Folltropin-V (n = 7) or 4.4 mg of Ovagen (n = 6) on day 3 of the estrous cycle. Treatment with both FSH sources resulted in greater (P < 0.05) numbers of follicles than in control animals (n = 12) on day 6 of the estrous cycle, indicating that low doses of FSH can increase the number of emerging follicles in a follicular wave. In experiment 2, milking cows were assigned to a control group (n = 4) or treated with 2.2 mg (FSH-2.2; n = 6) or 4.4 mg (FSH-4.4; n = 5) Ovagen. Follicle-stimulating hormone was administrated on day 3 or 4 and day 10 or 11 of the estrous cycle, coinciding with emergence of the first and second follicular waves, respectively. The number of follicles emerging during the first wave tended to be higher (P < 0.1) in FSH-4.4-treated cows than in controls. The second-wave dominant follicles emerged 2 d later in the treated cows and were smaller in diameter (P < 0.05) than controls, 2 d before aspiration. Despite being younger, the preovulatory follicles of FSH-4.4 cows expressed a steroidogenic capacity that was similar to controls with a tendency toward greater insulin concentrations (P < 0.09). In experiment 3, milking cows were assigned to a control group (n = 6) or treated with 4.4 mg Ovagen (FSH-4.4; n = 6). Follicle-stimulating hormone was administrated on day 3 and day 12 or 13 of the estrous cycle. The number of emerging follicles was higher (P < 0.05) in the treated vs control cows. However, the features of the preovulatory follicle developed in the subsequent cycle did not differ between groups. In summary, low doses of FSH can efficiently induce follicular turnover accompanied by a modest effect on the preovulatory follicle of the treated cycle. It appears that the administration of low doses of FSH, precisely timed to synchronize with the emergence of follicular waves, might have a beneficial effect on the preovulatory follicle and its enclosed oocyte.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Friedman
- Department of Animal Sciences, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lavon Y, Leitner G, Voet H, Wolfenson D. Naturally occurring mastitis effects on timing of ovulation, steroid and gonadotrophic hormone concentrations, and follicular and luteal growth in cows. J Dairy Sci 2010; 93:911-21. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2009-2112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2009] [Accepted: 11/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
31
|
Wolfenson D, Friedman E, Lavon Y, Roth Z. 17 THE EFFECT OF EXOGENOUS PROGESTERONE ON CONCEPTION RATE OF COOLED COWS DURING THE SUMMER AND AUTUMN. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv21n1ab17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Dairy cows exhibit low concentrations of plasma progesterone during the summer. The effect of exogenous progesterone supplementation postinsemination (AI) in the summer on conception is equivocal. Moreover, the variability among studies in thermal stress severity contributes to the variable effect of exogenous progesterone on summer fertility. This study examined the effect of supplementing exogenous progesterone post-AI during the summer and autumn on conception rate of lactating cows that were efficiently cooled during the hot season. The study was conducted in Israel on 2 commercial farms of high-milk-producing cows, yielding, on average, 41.3 kg of milk day–1 around AI (124 days postpartum). These farms were equipped with efficient cooling systems along the feeding line and in the holding area. Mean body temperatures during the afternoon and evening hours in summer (air temperature and relative humidity of 30 to 32°C and 41 to 57%) were 39.1 ± 0.1°C, with a peak value of 39.5°C. Cows at first, second, or third AI that were inseminated after estrus (Day 0; detected by visual observation and computerized pedometric system; Afimilk, Israel) from July to August (summer) or September to October (fall) were included in the study (n = 377 cows). Treated cows (n = 181 cows) were fitted with an intravaginal device containing progesterone (CIDR) on Day 5 ± 1 after AI for 12 days; the device was removed on Day 17. Administration of the CIDR increased progesterone concentration by 2.3 ng mL–1 (P < 0.05). Conception rates were analyzed by a logistic regression procedure. Overall, the CIDR treatment increased conception rate by 6% compared with controls (39 v. 33%; NS). Day of CIDR insertion tended to affect conception rate (43, 39, and 34% for Days 4, 5, and 6, respectively; NS). The CIDR treatment significantly increased, compared with the control (+23%, P < 0.05), the conception rate of cows with a low body condition score at peak lactation (49.3 v. 26.6%). Similarly, the CIDR significantly increased (+22%, P < 0.05) the conception rate of cows that exhibited a uterine disorder at parturition (46.3 v. 24.6% in untreated control cows). The CIDR treatment also increased conception rate (NS) in the fall (+13%) in mature cows (+8%) and in the first AI (+12%). Similarly, cows treated with a CIDR before Day 120 postpartum, or cows yielding less than 40 kg of milk day–1 exhibited a numerically higher (+8%; NS) conception rate. Results indicated that exogenous progesterone administered post-AI increases conception during the summer and autumn in efficiently cooled cows during the hot months. The most beneficial effect was documented in cows that had been diagnosed as having a uterine disease postpartum, and in those that exhibited a low body condition score.
Collapse
|
32
|
Klipper E, Tatz E, Kisliouk T, Vlodavsky I, Moallem U, Schams D, Lavon Y, Wolfenson D, Meidan R. Induction of heparanase in bovine granulosa cells by luteinizing hormone: possible role during the ovulatory process. Endocrinology 2009; 150:413-21. [PMID: 18818292 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Follicular development, follicular rupture, and corpus luteum (CL) formation are accompanied by extensive tissue remodeling. We examined whether heparanase (HPSE), which cleaves heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans, is induced during these processes. Prostaglandin F2alpha injection, which initiated luteolysis and the development of a preovulatory follicle, moderately increased HPSE mRNA in bovine granulosa cells (GCs). GnRH, used to induce gonadotropin surge, markedly augmented HPSE mRNA levels 12 h after its injection. The temporal pattern of HPSE gene expression in follicular-luteal transition was further examined in follicles collected before, and 4, 10, 20, 25, and 60 h after GnRH injection. HPSE mRNA increased transiently 10-20 h after GnRH injection to levels 10-fold higher than in untreated heifers. HPSE protein levels were similarly elevated 20 h after GnRH injection in GCs, but not in the theca layer. Cyclooxygenase-2 (PTGS2) mRNA peaked before ovulation when HPSE levels returned to baseline levels. HPSE mRNA abundance also remained low in the CLs. The antiprogesterone, RU-486, elevated HPSE levels in GC culture, suggesting that progesterone secreted by CLs may inhibit HPSE. HPSE immunostaining was more abundant in GCs than thecae. In cultured GCs, LH induced a transient increase in HPSE mRNA 3-6 h after its addition, but not at 24 h. However, PTGS2 mRNA was clearly induced at this time. These findings suggest that: 1) HPSE may play a role in ovulation but much less so during CL development, and 2) GC-derived HSPE may be a novel member of the LH-induced extracellular matrix-degrading enzyme family and may contribute to follicular rupture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eyal Klipper
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Quality Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Roth Z, Friedman E, Lavon Y, Wolfenson D. 16 INDUCTION OF FOLLICULAR TURNOVER TO IMPROVE FERTILITY IN DAIRY COWS EXPOSED TO SUMMER HEAT STRESS. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv21n1ab16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The reduced conception rate of high-lactating cows during the hot season is a well-documented phenomenon. Previous studies have provided evidence of the ovarian follicle and the susceptibility of its enclosed oocyte to thermal stress, suggesting that heat-shock-induced disruption of follicular and oocyte function is involved in the mechanism underlying the reduced fertility. Evaporative cooling improves summer fertility to some extent. However, there is a compelling need to find additional ways to improve fertility further during the hot season. In the current study, we hypothesized that induction of consecutive follicular waves by administration of GnRH + PGF2α would improve fertility, with the aim of removing damaged follicles and enhancing the emergence of healthier ones. The study was conducted from July to November (2006 to 2007) on healthy, cyclic cows yielding an average of 43.6 kg of milk day–1 in 2 commercial herds exposed to an efficient cooling systems. Control cows (C; n = 187) were artificially inseminated (AI) after estrus around Days 80 to 90 postpartum. Treated cows (T; n = 195) were hormonally treated to induce consecutive follicular cycles, beginning with an injection of GnRH (1.5 mL, Gonabreed) to induce ovulation and followed by injection of PGF2α (2.5 mL, Estromat) 7 days later to regress the corpora lutea. In this manner, 3 successive 9-day follicular waves were induced. Cows manifesting estrus (determined by pedometric monitoring, Afimilk, Kibbutz Afikim, Israel) following the third PGF2α injection were inseminated, and pregnancy was determined 44 days post-AI. Statistical analysis (logistic regression, SAS) was performed, taking into account the following parameters: season, milk level, body condition score (BCS), somatic-cell count, and number of lactations. Overall, the GnRH-PGF2α treatment resulted in a slight increase in conception rate (27 and 32% for C v. T, respectively; NS). Conception rate was higher in cows exhibiting estrus within 5 days after the third PGF2α injection than in those exhibiting estrus later (41 v. 31%, respectively). The most prominent effect was associated with the number of lactations: treatment did not affect the conception of multiparous cows, but a significantly higher conception rate was noted for first-calf heifers (37 and 53% for C v. T, respectively; P < 0.05). A similar pattern was noted for cows yielding less than 40 kg of milk day–1 (36 and 51% for C v. T, respectively; NS), but not in those yielding more than 40 kg of milk day–1. Numerically, but not significantly, higher conception rates were noted for T cows with high BCS at parturition (+15%) or at peak lactation (+13%), and in cows with a low somatic cell count (+10%) relative to the C group. Interestingly, there was no treatment × season (summer v. fall) interaction. Taken together, the combination of hormonal treatment-induced follicular turnover and efficient cooling appears to improve summer and autumn fertility, mainly in first-calf heifers.
Collapse
|
34
|
Dvir A, Leitner G, Moallem U, Lavon Y, Roth Z. 244 ENDOTOXIN AFFECTS OOCYTE DEVELOPMENTAL COMPETENCE IN DAIRY COWS. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv21n1ab244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mastitis is the most common disease affecting dairy herds. The influence of mastitis on the oocyte and on early embryonic development is unclear. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of endotoxin on oocyte developmental competence. Six lactating Holstein cows were synchronized using the Ovsynch protocol. PGF2α was administered on Day 6 after the second GnRH injection, and 36 h later, either Escherichia coli endotoxin (LPS, 10 μg, n = 3) or saline (n = 3) was administered to one udder quarter of each cow. Milk samples were collected and rectal temperatures were recorded after treatment. Cows treated with LPS showed a typical increase in body temperature (40.27°C ± 0.37), whereas cows treated with saline did not (38.9°C ± 0.04). A higher (P < 0.05) somatic cell count was noted for cows treated with LPS. At the acute phase (6 h after LPS administration), which is characterized by increased secretion of cytokines and other substances, plasma samples were collected, and follicular fluid (FF) from the preovulatory follicle was aspirated by transvaginal probe (Pie Medical, Maastricht, The Netherlands) to serve as a maturation medium for IVF procedures. In 2 different experiments, bovine oocytes aspirated from ovaries collected from a local abattoir were matured (22 h, 5% CO2, 38.5°C) in the indicated media, fertilized (18 h), and cultured for 8 days (KSOM, 5% CO2, 5% O2, 38.5°C). The proportion of oocytes that cleaved and developed to blastocysts was recorded 44 h and 7 to 8 days postfertilization (p.f.). In the first experiment, oocytes were matured in standard maturation medium (TCM-199, control), in FF aspirated from cows treated with saline (FF-saline) or in FF from cows treated with LPS (FF-LPS). Cleavage rate to the 2- to 4-cell stages did not differ among groups. However, the proportion of developed blastocysts in the FF-LPS group was lower than that in the FF-saline and control groups (10.6 v. 22.4 and 24.4%, respectively; P < 0.05). In the second experiment, oocytes were matured in standard maturation medium (control), plasma obtained from cows treated with saline (Plasma-saline), or plasma from cows treated with LPS (Plasma-LPS). Similar to the first experiment, cleavage rate did not differ among groups, and the proportion of blastocysts for the Plasma-LPS group on Day 7 p.f. was lower than that for the Plasma-saline and control groups (11.0 v. 25.5 and 34.7%, respectively; P < 0.05). A slight increase in blastocyst formation was noted on Day 8 p.f. in both the FF-LPS and Plasma-LPS groups (16.9 and 14.8%, respectively). Nevertheless, it remained lower (P < 0.05) than that in the control, FF-saline, and Plasma-saline groups (30.0, 27.3, and 28.7%, respectively). Although the mechanism is not clear, the findings suggest that endotoxin has deleterious effects on the ovarian pool of oocytes. Whether this is also the case for natural clinical mastitis remains to be examined.
The authors thank D. Wolfenson from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem for his assistance with this work.
Collapse
|