Purdue University researchers have been awarded three grants by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), totaling over $1.4 million, to conduct vital studies on health issues in cattle and swine. These grants are part of NIFA's Animal Nutrition, Growth and Lactation Program, which recently allocated $13 million for research in this field.
One project led by Jon Schoonmaker, associate professor of animal sciences, aims to delve deeper into the impact of nontherapeutic antibiotics on intestinal microbial populations and the resulting metabolites that affect cattle's intestinal health. Understanding these interactions is crucial in finding effective alternatives to antibiotics and reducing antibiotic resistance.
Jonathan Pasternak and John Radcliffe, from the Department of Animal Sciences, received a grant to investigate nonpathogenic factors influencing thyroid hormones in pigs. By studying the relationship between hormone levels and growth, the researchers hope to enhance understanding of physiological stressors and their effects on the thyroid hormone system.
Rafael Neves, assistant professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, and his team were granted funds to examine the connection between skeletal muscle metabolism and ketosis, a metabolic disorder prevalent in dairy cows after calving. The study aims to identify strategies to mitigate the negative impact of ketosis on dairy production.
These research projects address critical health issues in livestock, benefiting both animal welfare and agricultural efficiency. By gaining insights into these areas, researchers at Purdue University are contributing to advancements in livestock health and well-being.
The grants from NIFA demonstrate the importance of investing in scientific research to enhance animal nutrition and overall agricultural sustainability. The findings of these studies will provide valuable knowledge for the farming community, leading to improved management practices and enhanced production outcomes.
Link to Purdue University:https://www.purdue.edu/
Photo Credit: GettyImages-Diane Kuhl
Categories: Kentucky, Livestock