Longitudinal Metabolic Biomarker Profile of Hyperketonemic Cows from Dry-Off to Peak Lactation and Identification of Prognostic Classifiers

Abstract

Currently about 30% to 50% of all dairy cows are affected by a metabolic or infectious disease during the transition period. A key factor for preventive actions is the ability to precisely predict metabolic diseases at an early stage. We report the longitudinal metabolic profile of non-esterified fatty acids, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), total bilirubin, and aspartate aminotransferase in hyperketonemic dairy cows. Aiming for a novel measurement regime to improve metabolic health in dairy cows, we evaluated prognostic classifiers for hyperketonemia. In the observational longitudinal study, 99 healthy adult primiparous and multiparous Simmental dairy cows were included. Every cow was monitored weekly for 14 consecutive weeks, beginning two weeks prior to the expected day of parturition until peak lactation. Cows with serum concentrations of BHB > 0.8 mmol/L were considered hyperketonemic. Biomarker profiles were fitted by the maximum likelihood method using a mixed effects natural cubic spline model. In the hyperketonemic group, the BHB profile remained significantly higher than that of the control group until the end of the study period. As a prognostic classifier, the cut-off level of 0.54 mmol/L BHB measured on the 10th day post partum had the highest area under the curve. These results provide new longitudinal insights into the metabolic biomarker progression of dairy cows and enable an early onset diagnosis of hyperketonemia.

Analytical and Clinical Interference of Sample Hemolysis in Evaluating Blood Biochemical and Endocrine Parameters in Cows

“…The bias values obtained correspond to previous results in cattle and other animal species [ 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 , 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 , 38 , 39 , 40 ]. In addition to the above, numerous studies have established a linear correlation between the level of hemolysis/hemolysis indices and the concentration of the parameters studied [ 41 , 42 ].…”

“…However, in certain assays, BHB demonstrated stability and insensitivity to hemolysis [ 38 ]. A false increase in NEFA and BHB values is very significant and must be corrected as it can lead to a false interpretation of energy balance or detection of ketosis [ 40 ]. An increase in the values of other parameters may occur as a result of the analytical interference of cell-free Hb [ 41 , 42 ].…”

The Future of Biomarkers in Veterinary Medicine: Emerging Approaches and Associated Challenges

“…In dairy cattles, biomarkers are being sought for dysfunction in key metabolic phases, for example the ‘transition period’ [ 111 ]. This is the period three weeks prior to calving and the three weeks following calving and is associated with major metabolic changes that transition from pregnancy to lactation.…”

Evaluation of the metabolomic profile through 1H-NMR spectroscopy in ewes affected by postpartum hyperketonemia

“…Furthermore, recent literature in dairy cows reveals that increased BHB concentration (or hyperketonemia) may not be simply related to increased serum NEFA. Greater prepartum BHB is associated with greater postpartum BHB levels and may indicate differences in liver function or other metabolic adaptations 11 . Considering the considerable impact of this disease, preventing hyperketonemia is essential for optimal animal health, welfare, and productivity 11 , 12 .…”

“…Greater prepartum BHB is associated with greater postpartum BHB levels and may indicate differences in liver function or other metabolic adaptations 11 . Considering the considerable impact of this disease, preventing hyperketonemia is essential for optimal animal health, welfare, and productivity 11 , 12 .…”