IMPROVING OUR UNDERSTANDING OF LIPID DIGESTION AND METABOLISM IN LACTATING DAIRY COWS

Nutrition of the dairy cow is the major factor that impacts rumen lipid metabolism and consequently the supply of fatty acids available to the animal. Furthermore, as our understanding of fatty acid digestion and metabolism has advanced we are becoming increasingly aware of the interactions between specific fatty acids and metabolism and their effects on a range of physiological processes including feed intake, milk fat synthesis, nutrient partitioning, ruminal fermentation, and animal health. Our long-term goal is to improve our understanding of lipid digestion and metabolism to allow for gains in dairy cattle production and efficiency. Improvements in these important areas will aid overall nutrient management of dairy cattle, potentially reduce the use of feedstuffs with high human food and fuel value, and reduce the impact of dairy production on the environment. Specifically we will:Determine the potential for the improvement of dairy cow productivity using specific dietary fatty acids and blends of fatty acids.Improve our understanding of the complex dietary-ruminal interactions that impact mammary gland production of milk fat.Determine interactions between supplemental amino acids and fatty acids on milk production, energy balance, and nutrient utilization of lactating dairy cows.The proposed research objectives represent a whole animal systems approach, with both fundamental and applied aspects. Specific experiments cross several boundaries, allowing for an integration of disciplines. Research results will be presented at scientific meetings and published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated to key stakeholder communities including, extension educators, producers, nutritionists, veterinarians, and other allied industry personnel.