Liver fatty acid metabolism associations with reproductive performance of dairy cattle

Abstract

The peri-calving period is characterized by a negative energy balance, which leads to lipid mobilization. Thus, during this period, the liver has important functions related to optimizing milk yield, preventing metabolic and infectious diseases, and improving fertility. To clarify the relationship between liver fatty acid metabolism and reproductive performance, the present study was conducted to assess the abundance of specific hepatic proteins related to lipid metabolism in both plasma and follicular fluid in dairy cattle with different days to conception (DC). Sixteen animals were grouped according to DC, as more and fewer DC (MDC and FDC, respectively). Blood and liver biopsies were sampled 14 days before the expected calving date and 4, 14 and 28 days after calving. The plasma beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) concentrations and the liver triacylglycerol (TAG) content were greater in the MDC group (P < 0.05), whereas the protein abundance of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 was greater in the FDC group (P < 0.05). Additionally, total bilirubin (TBil) concentration was less in the FDC than MDC group on day 28 (P < 0.05). These results indicate lipid mobilization and liver fatty acid oxidation capacity in dairy cows could contribute to the adaptations and reproductive performance.