Modulating Immunometabolism in Transition Dairy Cows

Dear Colleagues,

The transition period in dairy cows is undoubtedly one of the key stages of the entire productive cycle of the dairy cow that determines the success of the cow's lactation, including health, milk yield, and fertility, and which defines the profit of dairy operations.

In this scenario, nutrition and feeding, cow comfort, and overall management are fundamental pillars that help to modulate the cow’s metabolic status and immunity (immunometabolism) in this challenging time.

Management of the transition cow should focus on minimizing the adverse impacts of negative energy and protein balance, the severity of hypocalcemia, other macro- and microminerals, a reduction in ketosis, the excessive release of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), hepatic lipidosis, displacement of the abomasum, inflammatory disorders (metritis and mastitis), and oxidative stress. In addition, the adaptation of the rumen to diets richer in starch, and therefore, a reduction in the risk of rumen acidosis, must be addressed. In the end, any of these management strategies will help in modulating the immune system, reducing the negative impact of the typical immunosuppression that occurs around parturition.

We invite original research and review papers that contribute new information on immunomodulation and metabolism during the transition period of dairy cows. Research and review papers may cover basic research topics, but manuscripts focused on practical management, including case reports, epidemiological studies, and field trials, are also encouraged and welcomed.

Prof. Dr. Pedro G. Melendez
Dr. Pablo Pinedo
Guest Editors

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