Metabolomic Profile Associated with Pre-Breeding Puberty Status in Range Beef Heifers

Authors

Joslyn K. Beard, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Waseem Abbas, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
J. A. Musgrave, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow
R. Funston, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Samodha C. Fernando, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Travis Mulliniks, USDA-ARS, Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory, Miles City, MontanaFollow

Date of this Version

2021

Citation

Published in 2021 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report, University of Nebraska Extension Publication MP110

Comments

Used by permission

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.