Effects of increased milking frequency on gene expression in the bovine mammary gland.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Previous research has demonstrated that increased milking frequency of dairy cattle during the first few weeks of lactation enhances milk yield, and that the effect persists throughout the entire lactation period. The specific mechanisms controlling this increase in milk production are unknown, but suggested pathways include increased mammary epithelial cell number, secretory capacity, and sensitivity to lactogenic hormones. We used serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) and microarray analysis to identify changes in gene expression in the bovine mammary gland in response to 4x daily milking beginning at d 4 of lactation (IMF4) relative to glands milked 2x daily (Control) to gain insight into physiological changes occurring within the gland during more frequent milkin

SUBMITTER: Connor EE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2518935 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature