Roughage Sources During Late Gestation and Lactation Alter Metabolism, Immune Function and Rumen Microbiota in Ewes and Their Offsprings.

ABSTRACT: Maternal metabolic intensity significantly increases during late gestation and lactation, placing significant stress on cells and tissues. This heightened metabolic demand can lead to inflammatory responses and metabolic disorders, adversely affecting the health of both the mother and her offspring. Diet plays a key role in modulating host health by influencing the gastrointestinal microbiome. This study examined the impact of two roughage sources, corn straw (CS), and alfalfa hay (AH), on ewes and their offspring during late gestation and lactation, with a focus on metabolism, immunity, and the microbiome. Thirty-six multiparous Inner Mongolia cashmere goats, approximately 60 days pregnant, were assigned to CS and AH groups. Samples were collected from the ewes on day 140 of gestation (G1

SUBMITTER: Du H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11858228 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature