Plasma metabolite and hormone concentrations in Friesian cows of differing genetic merit measured at two feeding levels

Abstract

Physiological differences between cows in hormone and metabolite concentrations were sought that may account for genetic differences in milk production.Two groups of New Zealand Friesian cows, differing in genetic merit for fat production (high breeding index (HBI) and low breeding index (LBI)) by approximately 23 breeding index units (20 kg fat on the United Kingdom improved contemporary comparison scale), were each divided into two further groups, one of which was given freshly cut pasture to appetite and in the other intake was restricted to 70% of appetite. Eighteen blood samples were collected over a 24-h period from each of 16 cows fitted with indwelling jugular catheters. Samples were analysed for growth hormone, insulin, free fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate. Mean concentration of insulin was significantly higher in the HBI underfed group than in any other group (P< 0·01). Glucose concentration was significantly lower in the LBI group (P< 0·05), whose intake was restricted. The concentration of (3-hydroxybutyrate was significantly higher in the cows whose intake was restricted (P< 0·01) and the concentration fell markedly after feeding. Growth hormone concentrations were higher in the cows on restricted intake (P< 0·05) and in HBI cows but the differences were not statistically significant.It was concluded that different patterns of blood metabolites and hormones are associated with cows that differ in genetic merit. Aspects of insulin and glucose metabolism, particularly at low planes of feeding, appear to offer most promise as indicators of high milk-solids production.