Animal Science, Department of
Nebraska Beef Cattle Reports
Date of this Version
2021
Citation
Published in 2021 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report, University of Nebraska Extension Publication MP110
Abstract
Summary with Implications
A 4-yr study utilizing heifers from March and May calving herds collected serum samples prior to breeding to determine puberty status. Serum samples were used for Metabolomics analysis to investigate differences related to circulating serum metabolites in pubertal and non-pubertal heifers. Metabolomics, which is a shotgun approach analysis of a large number of small metabolites, is an emerging technology that can provide a more robust analysis of metabolism. No differences were observed in heifer ADG, pregnancy rate, or the percentage that calved within the first 21 d between heifers classified as pubertal and non-pubertal at the start of the breeding season. Using metabolomic analysis, metabolite differences associated with energy metabolism and steroid production between pubertal and non-pubertal groups were identified. Results from this study suggest that there is potential to develop a method that identifies efficient, productive females early in the development period and reduce costs for producers.
Included in
Large or Food Animal and Equine Medicine Commons, Meat Science Commons, Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons
Comments
Used by permission