Modulation of Cytokine Gene Expression and Secretion during the Periparturient Period in Dairy Cows Naturally Infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis

Abstract

Twenty multiparous and two primiparous Holstein cows were grouped according to infection status with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), the causative microorganism for Johne’s disease. The effect of parturition and infection on the progression of Johne’s disease was monitored by determining the expression and secretion of key cytokines. Despite the ability of MAP and parturition to modulate cytokine gene expression, the transition from subclinical to clinical disease state did not occur during the immediate postpartum period in this study.