Abstract

This study of insulin and key hormones of the somatotropic axis was made to help explain the milksolids and body condition responses obtained from cows of divergent Holstein-Friesian (HF) genotypes fed differing levels of concentrate. Weekly plasma concentrations of insulin, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone (GH) were measured from 57 North American (overseas; OS) and New Zealand (NZ) cows in the first 10 weeks of lactation during the 2002/03 and 2003/04 seasons. Cows of similar breeding worth grazed at a high pasture allowance and were individually fed 0, 3 or 6 kg concentrate DM/cow/day. Compared to NZ HF, OS HF had similar insulin concentrations, lower IGF-1 concentrations, and higher GH concentrations. Feeding 3 or 6 kg concentrate DM/day increased insulin and IGF-1 concentrations to a similar extent, with GH concentrations being reduced at the highest level of supplementation. These results are consistent with the previously reported greater loss of body condition in OS HF, and suggest genotype differences in insulin resistance and rate of recoupling of the somatotropic axis after calving. The reported gain in body condition when concentrates were fed is probably a result of the increased insulin production and a positive effect on liver GH receptor 1A, with the consequent increase in IGF-1 and reduction in GH. Diet only began to affect GH concentrations, and therefore body condition loss, after approximately week 4-6 of lactation. These results have implications for feed management and breeding.

ES, Kolver, JR Roche, and PW Aspin

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 66, Napier, 403-408, 2006