Research

At present, we are mainly working on the following research areas:

  1. Endocrine systems in livestock animals (cattle, pigs, poultry, horses)
  2. Immune system development of neonatal farm animals
  3. Immune system of the mammary gland
  4. Metabolism of lactating dairy cows and neonatal calves
  5. Animal-technology interactions & impact of husbandry conditions
  6. Colostrum formation and colostrum quality

 

Here some insights in current research projects:

Impact of individual colostrum components on metabolic adaptation in neonatal calves

We study the impact of different nutritive and bioactive components (e.g., fat, carbohydrates, immunoglobulins) on metabolic adaptation and development in neonatal calves until weaning. Besides maternal colostrum, specific formula with altered composition are fed to calves. Our analytical parameters focus on energy metabolism, growth, development and immune system.

Development of ketosis in dairy cows

Ketosis is a major issue in early lactation in dairy cows and associated with reduced milk production, fertility and immune function. Cows suffering from (subclinical) ketosis are more susceptible towards metabolic and infectious diseases (e.g. mastitis). We use different protocols to induce ketosis (e.g. via feeding, body condition) or infuse ketone bodies to short-term simulate hyperketonemia in vivo. Our research focusses on the early development of ketosis and the identification of metabolically resilient dairy cows.