Scientists from the University of Glasgow and the Moredun Research Institute have published data from a comprehensive analysis of the changes that occur in milk during mastitis caused by a bacterial infection of the udder.
The team applied new analytical techniques where all the proteins (proteomics) and small chemicals (metabolomics) in milk may be examined within a single sample.
Using these innovative technologies, 570 proteins and 690 metabolites in milk have been measured for the first time in the same milk samples.
Among these, potential biomarkers of mastitis have been identified which could become the basis of rapid diagnostic tests to be used beside the cow to give farmers real-time information on the health status of their animals allowing for targeted therapy.
Professor David Eckersall, Professor of Veterinary Biochemistry University of Glasgow said: “Our results in identification and monitoring of biomarkers of the disease have opened new possibilities in the diagnosis of this economically important disease, while changes observed in the chemical components of milk has stimulated ideas on the potential role of natural agents on disease processes.
“The combination these avenues of research may lead in the future to better diagnosis and treatment of mastitis and could reduce amount of antibacterial agents currently being used in treatments.”
Source – The Dairy Site