Milk Fat Research Articles

Beta-Glucans Improve the Mammary Innate Immune Response to Endotoxin Challenge in Dairy Ewes.

This study evaluated short-term immune responses of dairy ewes supplemented with barley β-glucan (BG) following an intramammary Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. In the adaptation period, 36 ewes were fed an alfalfa hay diet ad libitum and barley grain cv. Hispanic (3.8% BG). Then, ewes were assigned into three experimental groups: (1) Control (CON), the same previous diet (13.3 g BG/d); (2) high β-glucans barley (HBG), new barley (cv. Annapurna) containing 10% BG (35 g BG/d); (3) intraperitoneally injected (INP) with a 1.4% BG solution dose (2 g BG/ewe). At d 9, all ewes were infused with an E. coli LPS or saline solution in each udder half. After the challenge, rectal temperature (RT), milk yield and composition, somatic cell count (SCC), and plasma interleukins (IL-1α and IL-1β) were monitored daily. The INP treatment revealed a transitory increase in RT and decreased milk yield by 38%. Milk fat, protein, and SCC increased in LPS-treated udders but not by BG treatment. The IL-1α plasma concentration was similar among groups but INP ewes showed a lower IL-1β concentration suggesting a lower inflammatory response. The BG administration appears more effective intraperitoneally than orally, which needs additional study.

Enhanced Brain Myelination and Cognitive Development in Young Children Associated with Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM) Intake: A Temporal Cohort Study.

Myelination is a fundamental process of neurodevelopment that facilitates the efficient brain messaging and connectivity that underlies the emergence and refinement of cognitive skills and abilities. Healthy maturation of the myelinated white matter requires appropriate neural activity and coordinated delivery of key nutritional building blocks, including short and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids, and sphingolipids. While many of these nutrients are amply supplied by breastmilk, they are often provided in only limited quantities in infant formula milk. Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is a rich source of phospholipids, including sphingomyelin and has been associated with improved cognitive development in infants and children when added to infant formula. To determine if added bovine MFGM is also associated with improved myelination, this study used myelin-sensitive MRI to compare myelination trends in healthy infants and toddlers who received the same infant formula with and without added bovine MFGM in two temporal cohorts: Without Added MFGM between 2009 and 2016; and With Added MFGM between 2018-2020. We also used the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) to compare verbal, non-verbal, and overall cognitive abilities. Matched for important demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, we found that children who received infant formula with added MFGM showed improved myelination in motor-related areas (motor cortices, internal capsule, and cerebellum) and improved MSEL nonverbal and fine motor scores. No significant differences in verbal or overall cognitive ability scores were noted. These results support the importance of phospholipids, sphingolipids, and sphingomyelin in promoting brain myelination and cognitive development.

Temperature correction of near-infrared spectra of raw milk

Accurate milk composition analysis is crucial for improving product quality, economic efficiency, and animal health in the dairy industry. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy can quantify milk composition quickly and nondestructively. However, external factors, such as temperature fluctuations, can alter the molecular vibrations and hydrogen bonding in milk, altering the NIR spectra and leading to errors in predicting key constituents such as fat, protein, and lactose. This study compares the effectiveness of Piecewise Direct Standardization (PDS), Continuous PDS (CPDS), External Parameter Orthogonalization (EPO), and Dynamic Orthogonal Projection (DOP in correcting the impact of temperature-induced variations on predictions in milk long-wave NIR spectra (LW-NIR, 1000–1700 nm).A total of 270 raw milk samples were analyzed, collecting both reflectance and transmittance spectra at five different temperatures (20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C, and 40 °C). The experimental setup ensured precise temperature control and accurate spectral measurements. PLSR models were calibrated at 30 °C to predict milk fat, protein, and lactose content. The performance of these models was assessed before and after applying the temperature correction methods, with a primary focus on reflectance spectra.Results indicate that EPO and DOP significantly enhance model robustness and prediction accuracy across all temperatures, outperforming PDS and CPDS, especially for lactose prediction. These orthogonalization methods were compared against PLSR models calibrated with spectra from all temperatures. EPO and DOP showed comparable or superior performance, highlighting their effectiveness without requiring extensive temperature-specific calibration data. These findings suggest that orthogonalization methods are particularly suitable for in-line milk quality measurements under farm conditions where temperature control is challenging. This study highlights the potential of advanced chemometric techniques to improve real-time, on-farm milk composition analysis, facilitating better farm management and enhanced dairy product quality.

Demonstrating Brownian motion and estimating Avogadro’s number using simple tools: a practical guide for students

Abstract Brownian motion provides crucial observational evidence for the kinetic molecular theory by demonstrating the random perpetual movement of small particles. This phenomenon underscores the existence and behaviour of atoms and molecules, fundamentally supporting our current understanding of molecular kinetic theory. Remarkably, in 1905 Albert Einstein was able to predict this motion exactly purely from a theoretical point of view and in 1908 Jean Perrin provided experimental proof. This provided experimental proof of the existence of atoms and molecules. This paper outlines a method to demonstrate and record Brownian motion using a drop of homogenised low fat milk, a microscope and a mobile phone. The captured video files can be analysed with Physics Tracker software, allowing for the estimation of Avogadro’s number.

Effects of pre- and postpartum dietary fat sources (soybean oil versus linseed oil) on lactation performance and blood metabolites in transition dairy cows

This study investigated the effects of supplementation with two calcium salt fatty acid sources (soybean oil (CaSO) and linseed oil (CaLN)) before and after parturition on lactation performance and blood metabolite profiles in dairy cows. A study was conducted with twenty-four multiparous Holstein cows (parity = 3.12 ± 0.9 and Backfat thickness = 21.77 ± 1.98) that were divided into a 2 × 2 factorial design 21 days before expected calving. The aim was to investigate the interplay between prepartum (CaSO or CaLN, at 2 % of dry matter) and postpartum (at 1.4 % of dry matter) fat supplementation on lactation performance and blood metabolite profiles. Initially, cows were grouped according to the source of prepartum fat (either CaSO or CaLN, with 12 cows in each group). Postpartum, these groups were further subdivided according to whether the fat source was administered continuously (LN-LN, SO-SO) or alternately (LN-SO, SO-LN) over a 28-day period. This resulted in four different treatment groups, each with six cows. The fat supplements contained 84 % fat and 9 % Ca. No statistically significant differences were found in dry matter intake (DMI), colostrum yield or most concentrations of blood metabolites (insulin, cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea-N). However, cows fed CaSO prepartum had a significantly higher plasma concentration of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) than cows fed CaLN. Cows fed CaSO had higher backfat thickness (BFT) from day −21–0 than those fed CaLN (P = 0.05). Notably, cows in the SO-SO group lost the most weight, while cows in the SO-LN group lost the least, especially on days 21 and 28 postpartum (P = 0.05). Switching from soybean oil prepartum to linseed oil postpartum (SO-LN) significantly increased milk production in the first 28 days of lactation compared to other diets. In addition, the fat content in milk was influenced by the type of fat supplementation prepartum, with cows receiving CaSO having a lower milk fat percentage than those receiving CaLN (P < 0.05). The results on blood parameters suggest potential benefits of the SO-LN diet for postpartum cows, as emphasized by stable BHB concentrations and the highest IGF-1 concentrations, especially without the elevated BHB concentrations typically associated with the SO-SO diet. The blood concentrations of total protein, urea-N, triglycerides and NEFA were not affected by the treatments. Also, the dietary change did not adversely affect liver function, as shown by unchanged AST and ALT concentrations. Therefore, the results suggest that a dietary intervention involving the administration of soybean oil prepartum and switching to linseed oil postpartum (SO-LN strategy) has the potential to improve milk yield during the early lactation period.

Macronutrients in Human Milk and Early Childhood Growth-Is Protein the Main Driver?

Infant growth trajectories reflect current health status and may predict future obesity and metabolic diseases. Human milk is tailored to support optimal infant growth. However, nutrient intake rather than milk composition more accurately predicts growth outcomes. Although the role of protein leverage in infant growth is unclear, protein intake is important for early infancy growth. This study of exclusively breastfeeding mothers with allergies (n = 161) from the Infant Fish Oil Supplementation Study assessed relationships between intake of human milk macronutrients and infant growth. Human milk fat, protein and lactose concentrations were measured at 3 months postpartum, and infant daily intakes were estimated using an average milk intake of 800 mL/day. Higher human milk protein:energy ratio was associated with higher weight-for-age z-score at 2.5 years compared to 3 months and higher body mass index-for-age z-score change (6 months to 1 year compared to 3-6 months). Maternal atopy and birth season (summer) were negatively associated with human milk lactose concentration. Passive smoke exposure was associated with reduced energy and fat concentrations and increased lactose:energy ratio. Our results indicate that intake of human milk macronutrients may impact early childhood growth.

Effects of fibrolytic and amylolytic compound enzyme preparation on rumen fermentation, serum parameters and production performance in primiparous early-lactation dairy cows.

This research communication reports the effects of a compound enzyme preparation consisting of fibrolytic (cellulase 3500 CU/g, xylanase 2000 XU/g, β-glucanase 17 500 GU/g) and amylolytic (amylase 37 000 AU/g) enzymes on nutrient intake, rumen fermentation, serum parameters and production performance in primiparous early-lactation (47 ± 2 d) dairy cows. Twenty Holstein-Friesian cows in similar body condition scores were randomly divided into control (CON, n = 10) and experimental (EXP, n = 10) groups in a completely randomized single-factor design. CON was fed a basal total mixed ration diet and EXP was dietary supplemented with compound enzyme preparation at 70 g/cow/d. The experiment lasted 4 weeks, with 3 weeks for adaptation and then 1 week for measurement. Enzyme supplementation significantly increased diet non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) content as well as dry matter intake (DMI) and NFC intake (P < 0.05). EXP had increased ruminal butyrate and isobutyrate percentages (P < 0.01) but decreased propionate and valerate percentages (P < 0.05), as well as increased serum alkaline phosphatase activity and albumin concentration (P ≤ 0.01). Additionally, EXP had increased milk yield (0.97 kg/d), 4% fat corrected milk yield and energy corrected milk yield, as well as milk fat and protein yield (P < 0.01). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with a fibrolytic and amylolytic compound enzyme preparation increased diet NFC content, DMI and NFC intake, affected rumen fermentation by increasing butyrate proportion at the expense of propionate, and enhanced milk performance in primiparous early-lactation dairy cows.

Productive performance and milk composition of dairy ewes supplemented with corn silage (Zea mays L.), sunflower (Helianthus annuus) silage and their mixture.

The work reported in the Research Communication investigated in vitro rumen gas kinetics and fermentation profile as well as in vivo performance of lactating ewes fed corn silage (CS), sunflower silage (SFS) and their 50 : 50 mixture (CS-SFS). For the in vivo experiment, nine early-lactation Suffolk × Texel ewes were grouped in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design of three 21-d periods. Treatments were based on ad libitum CS, SFS, and CS-SFS supplemented with concentrate at 48 g/kg LW0.75. In vitro results showed that the CS had the highest dry matter degraded substrate and microbial crude protein production followed by CS-SFS. The in vivo data showed that animals fed on CS had higher digestibility of dry matter and organic matter than CS-SFS, while SFS were intermediate. Nitrogen (N) intake, fecal N excretion, and urine N excretion were similar between groups, however, milk N excretion was lower in SFS than CS. Milk yield was higher for CS and CS-SFS than SFS group, however, SFS-fed ewes had higher milk fat content than either CS or CS-SFS (all differences reported here were significant, P < 0.05 or better). Overall, CS-SFS could be used as dietary roughage for dairy ewes without deleterious effects on nutrient intake, N-balance and milk yield whilst potentially offering a more sustainable alternative to CS.

Studying the relationship of the type of higher nervous activity with the milk productivity of cows

The purpose of the presented research was to study the influence of the type of higher nervous activity (HNA) on the secretion of organic components of milk in various milking conditions. The studies were carried out in 2 periods. The first period was standard, and in the second there was a conditioned stimulus - the presence of an outsider. Black-and-white cows were assigned to four types of higher nervous activity: type 1 - strong, balanced; type 2 - strong, unbalanced; 3 - strong, inert; 4 - weak, inhibitory. In the first period, type 2 cows showed a significant decrease in the amount of milk, fat and glucose, but the mass fraction of protein in milk tended to increase separately for each milking by 0.22 %. The ratio of the mass fraction of protein to the percentage of lactose for two milkings was significantly higher by 0.06, in relation to type 1. In type 3, in general, for two milkings, an increase in lactose by 13.3 g, fat - by 7.0 g was noted, in contrast to the indicators of the first type. Animals of the fourth type tended to reduce milk secretion to 18.3 %. Also, the mass fraction of fat in milk was lower to 0.53 % (P &lt; 0.05) and protein to 0.28 %, and the proportion of lactose in milk, on the contrary, was consistently higher in both milkings by 0.25-0,26 % (P &lt; 0.05). In the second period (with a conditioned stimulus), cows of the second group showed a positive trend towards an increase in the mass fraction of protein in the morning with machine milking by 0.26 % (P &lt; 0.05), and with manual milking by 0.32 % (P &lt; 0.05), in relation to the first group. The mass fraction of fat during machine and manual milking in animals of the second type tended to decrease. In the third group, the indicators of milk of the first streams in the morning were higher by 0.99 % (P &lt; 0.05) - fat, by 0.33 % - protein, by 0.09 % - lactose, in relation to the first type of higher nervous activity. In cows with a weak, inhibitory nervous system, the influence of the conditioned stimulus contributed to a decrease in the ratios of the mass fraction of fat and protein in milk to lactose to 0.14 and 0.09, compared with type 1 cows.

Impact of diferent types of selection on the milk productivity of Kostroma breed cows

The article studies the influence of homogeneous and heterogeneous selection on the milk productivity of first-calf cows (milk yield, fat and protein content in milk). The object of research is cattle of the Kostroma breed. The research methods were zootechnical, population-genetic and analytical using computer programs IAS “SELEX” Multifarm and BON-MilkRegion. The modern cattle breeding base in the Kostroma region is represented by three breeding plants and two breeding reproducers. In 2022, the Karavaevo Breeding Farm JSC received 9,297 kg of milk per cow, the Minskoe LLC pedigree reproducer received 7,371 kg of milk, and the Rodina collective farm, Gridino and Agrofirma Planet LLC received more 6000 kg of milk. Record milk yields reach 15,000 kg of milk or more in 305 days of lactation. The following lines have been identified as promising in the Kostroma breed: lines Ladka 2537 and Kursa 3722, related groups Master 106902, Meridian 90927 and Concentrate 106157. To improve the productive qualities of dairy cattle, it is necessary to use both intraline selection and cross-lines, taking into account their compatibility. In breeding farms, using homogeneous selection, high productivity indicators were obtained: in terms of milk yield - from first-calf heifers of the related groups Laird, Concentrate and Meridian, in terms of fat and protein content in milk - Laird and Ladka. With heterogeneous selection, the best combinations were identified across farms.

Linseed oil supplementation alters milk fatty acid profile, mitigates heat stress, and improves summer milk yield in grazing dairy cows.

Dietary supplementation of fat can be an important source of energy to compensate for the reduction in dry matter intake in dairy cows during heat stress periods. Studies have reported that supplementing dairy cow diets with linseed oil (LO) can increase milk yield and enhance the levels of beneficial fatty acids, such as omega-3 fatty acids, in the milk. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of LO supplementation on milk fatty acids profile, milk yield and composition, and physiological parameters of grazing cows. The study was conducted in two seasons, one in spring and one in summer. A 2 × 2 Latin square design was used in each experiment. Twelve Holstein and crossbred Holstein x Jersey cows were involved in each season. Cows were divided into two groups: control (TC) with no supplementation and treatment (TL) supplemented with 400g/day of LO. The results showed that LO supplementation altered the milk fatty acid profile: decreased concentrations of short and medium-chain fatty acids (C10:0 - C17:1) except for C13:0 and increased concentrations of long-chain fatty acids (C18, C18:1 (both trans and cis isomers), C18:2 (specific conjugated linoleic acid - CLA isomers), and C18:3 n3 (omega-3)). Additionally, milk yield increased by 1.5l per day during summer in LO-supplemented cows, while milk fat, protein, and casein content decreased. Milk stability increased by 2.2% in the LO-supplemented group. LO-supplemented cows reduced internal body temperature and heart frequency in the afternoon and increased daily rumination time by 20min. In conclusion, LO supplementation can be an effective strategy to improve the nutritional profile of milk by altering fatty acid composition towards potentially healthier fats, mitigate the negative effects of heat stress on grazing cows during summer, as evidenced by reduced body temperature and heart frequency and increase milk yield.

Ready-to-use therapeutic food as a promising therapy for the prevention and cure of undernutrition in pre-school children: A review

The nutritional status of pre-school children is a reflection of health of children in the world and forms the basis for the development of success-oriented interventional programs. This study indicates the prevalence of under-nutrition in under five children in the world, Africa and Nigeria. It also showed the prevalence of under-nutrition in the six geopolitical regions in Nigeria, with the Northern regions reported to have the highest burden of under-nutrition compared to the other regions due to several factors such as inadequate breast feeding, lack of access to healthcare, lack of clean water, armed conflict, inadequate dietary intake, inappropriate feeding, foetal growth restriction, inadequate sanitation, lack of parental education, large family size, incomplete vaccination, poverty and low socio-economic status and desire to have more children. Several nutritional interventions have been put in place to prevent and cure under-nutrition in pre-school children, which include Promotion of exclusive breastfeeding, Micronutrient supplementation, Food fortification, Nutrition education, Complimentary feeding, and Cash transfer programs, Ready-to-use therapeutics foods (RUTF), Nutritional rehabilitation centers, Parenteral nutrition, and Nutritional counseling and education. However, RUTF has been reported to have an effective intervention in the prevention and treatment of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in pre-school children. It is an energy dense, shelf stable and ready to eat food which composed of peanut butter, sugar, full fat milk and mineral-vitamin premix. Other plant-based ingredients such as chickpea, soybean, sesame, maize, oats, sorghum and sunflower oil have also, been used in the production of RUTF and reported to be effective for complete recovery of SAM children.

The effects of dietary supplementation with red grape pomace treated with ozone gas on ruminal fermentation activities, nutrient digestibility, lactational performance, and blood metabolites in dairy ewes

This study aimed to investigate the effect of red grape pomace (RGP) treated with ozone (O3) gas as a substitute of low-quality alfalfa hay on the ruminal fermentation, nutrient digestibility, and milk production performance of fat-tailed, fed RGP substituted high fibrous alfalfa hay. Present study was performed in two experimental phases: 1) In situ and in vitro phase: Four Ghezel ewes in their third gestation (30 months old; weighing 51 ± 2 kg) with surgically implanted cannulas in their rumen were used to assess the in situ degradability and to obtain ruminal fluid to assay the in vitro gas production; the treatments were RGP not-processed (control; T0), and RGP processed with O3 for 6 (T1), 12 h (T2), and 24 h (T3). Processing RGP with O3 gas reduced (P < 0.05) neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF), although the processing time did not show differences. Ozone-treated RGP caused a reduction (P < 0.02) in total phenolics, total tannins, condensed tannins, protein-bound tannins, and fiber-bound tannins, compared to the control. Processing RGP with O3 for 12 h improved the nutritional value of RGP because of the reduction of the concentration of phenolic compounds, the increase of the in vitro gas production and the dry matter (DM) degradability, and improved fermentation parameters and it was chosen for the second phase of the experiment. 2) In vivo phase: Forty-eight healthy multiparous fat-tailed Ghezel ewes received the control diet (0 % RGP), or diets that substituted 20, 40, and 60 % of the dietary alfalfa hay with RGP processed with O3 for 12 h. Incremental dietary replacement of RGP with alfalfa hay did not influence the ruminal total volatile fatty acids but increased (P < 0.03) propionate. The digestibility coefficients of the DM and the NDF increased (P < 0.001) in diets containing RGP versus the control, but not for the crude protein and ether extract. The ruminal protozoa population exhibited a linear increase with the addition of O3-treated RGP (P < 0.001). Plasma glucose and albumin concentration increased (P < 0.04), and milk production and milk fat, protein, and lactose contents also increased (P < 0.05) with the alfalfa substitution with O3-processed RGP. In conclusion, replacing high-fibrous alfalfa hay with RGP treated with O3 for 12 h improved the apparent digestibility of DM and NDF and maintained the performance of the ewes.

Dietary thiamine supplementation modulates ruminal microbiota and partly restores lactation performance in lactating Hu ewes under heat-stress conditions

This study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary thiamine supplementation on milk production, rumen microbiota profile and inflammatory response of Hu ewes under heat-stress conditions. Twenty-seven multiparous pregnant and lactating Hu ewes of 71.6 ± 1.4 kg body weight, 11 ± 0.5 months gestation age, 31 ± 1 days in milk, 1.68 ± 0.15 L/d milk yield, and 2.14 ± 0.12 kg of daily dry matter intake (DMI), were used in the study. Following an acclimation period of 7 days, ewes were divided into 3 blocks of 9 each (one Hu ewe per pen), in a complete randomized design and assigned to one of three environmental temperature conditions for 15 days: thermoneutrality without supplementation (CON), heat-stressed without supplementation (HS) or heat-stressed with dietary thiamine supplementation (200 mg/kg of DMI; HST). The results indicated that the HS group experienced notable declines in milk protein, fat, and lactose content from day 10–15 (P < 0.05) compared to the CON group. In contrast, thiamine supplementation significantly elevated milk protein content from day 13–15 and raised milk fat and lactose content on days 14 and 15 (P < 0.05) compared to the HS group, thereby enhancing milk quality to a certain extent. Additionally, thiamine supplementation (HST group) significantly increased the circulating thiamine and Immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentrations accompanied by a significant decline in LPS-binding protein, interleukin-1 (IL-1), and serum amyloid A protein (SAA) levels compared to the HS group (P < 0.05). Rumen microbial composition analysis revealed that thiamine supplementation increased the abundance of Pyramidobacter, Butyrivibrio, Bacteroides, and Saccharofermentans. In conclusion, heat exposure during lactation in Hu ewes lowered milk production and quality, affecting rumen microbes. Dietary thiamine supplementation could improve rumen fermentation, mitigate heat stress-induced inflammation, and restore milk production in Hu ewes under heat stress conditions.

Influence of Brown Rice, Pea, and Soy Proteins on the Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Acceptance of Dairy‐Free Frozen Dessert

ABSTRACTFat and protein derived from milk are prime ingredients in a frozen dessert such as ice cream conferring multiple desirable functionalities. However, this frozen dairy dessert is not suitable for individuals having lactose intolerance, cow milk allergy, or vegans. Hence, the study aimed to formulate dairy‐free frozen desserts using plant oils and plant proteins and compare their physicochemical characteristics and sensory acceptance against an ice cream containing milk fat and milk protein. Results indicated that the types of protein significantly influenced the physicochemical properties and sensory acceptance of the frozen dessert samples. Frozen desserts containing brown rice, pea, and soy protein showed greater resistance to melting (0.29, 0.12, and 0.19%/min vs. 1.95%/min), but they scored lower in sensory quality than ice cream made with milk protein; although they remained at an acceptable level. When compared among the plant proteins, the physicochemical characteristics of frozen desserts containing brown rice, pea, and soy protein varied because of the differences in the respective protein composition. Frozen dessert with brown rice protein showed higher overrun (47.50% vs. 40.78% and 37.8%), lower hardness (20.02 N vs. 22.24 and 26.37 N), and higher melting rate (0.29%/min vs. 0.19 and 0.12%/min) than frozen desserts containing soy and pea protein. Additionally, the brown rice protein frozen dessert received lower sensory acceptance than soy and pea protein frozen desserts. In summary, brown rice, pea, and soy proteins showed potential to be used as viable alternatives to milk protein for dairy‐free frozen dessert applications.

Medin, a link between vascular pathology and dementia?

Medin is a protein fragment derived from milk fat globule epidermal growth factor VIII (MFG-E8). Medin aggregates are present in the vessel wall of most subjects over 50 years of age. In this narrative review, we focus on the consequences of medin aggregation in relation to the development of dementia. Recent literature revealed medin as biomarker for dementia in CSF, specifically of a vascular subtype. Preclinical work showed that medin is associated with aging-related cerebral vascular dysfunction, vascular stiffening, hypertension, and. vascular amyloid β deposition. These findings position medin as a potential mechanistic link between aging, vascular pathology and dementia.

Design and fabrication of plant-based milk fat globule mimetics: Flaxseed oil droplets coated with potato, soy, or pea protein

An increasing number of plant-based milk products are appearing on the market as substitutes for dairy milk. These products are becoming more popular due to growing consumers concerns about environmental, health, or ethical issues linked to dairy milk. Typically, plant-based milks are produced using top-down approaches that involve mechanical disruption of plant tissues. In this study, we examined the possibility of using a bottom-up approach to mimic the structural and physicochemical properties of milk fat globules (MFGs) in homogenized milk. Plant-based MFGs (PB-MFGs) were prepared using flaxseed oil as an omega-3 fatty acid rich oil phase, and potato, soy, or pea protein as emulsifiers to create the interfacial membranes. PB-MFGs were prepared with the same oil content (10 %) but different protein contents (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 %). The mean particle diameters (d4,3 and d3,2) of the three types of PB-MFGs were slightly smaller than those of dairy MFGs, while their surface charges were somewhat more negative under neutral conditions. There was no significant difference in the shear viscosity of PB-MFGs and MFGs. In terms of stability, PB-MFGs prepared with potato protein exhibited the smallest particle size change after 30 days of storage. Moreover, the pH stability of these PB-MFGs was closest to that of dairy MFGs. Our results provide valuable insights into the design and development of plant-based milks with more dairy-like properties, which may increase their more widespread acceptance and application.

12548 Mammary De Novo Lipogenesis During A Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic Clamp

Abstract Disclosure: T.M. Fordham: None. M. Ramos-Roman: None. E.J. Parks: Consulting Fee; Self; Simply Good Foods. Stock Owner; Self; Sagimet Biosciences. Other; Self; Past President of The Obesity Society. Introduction: The mammary produces large amounts of medium-chain saturated fatty acids. Long-chain saturated fatty acids found in human milk primarily derive from the maternal diet or from the mobilization of stored triglycerides. Previous studies have established the importance of insulin in stimulating mammary differentiation, milk synthesis, and lipogenesis. However, no studies have assessed how changes in insulin concentrations alter human mammary de novo lipogenesis (DNL) nor what effect gestational diabetes may have on insulin’s relationship to lipogenesis during lactation. Through the utilization of stable isotopes and the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp technique, we tested the differing concentrations of insulin to stimulate mammary DNL. Methods: Eight women (32±4 yrs) with (GDM, n=4) or without (NGT, n=4) recent gestational diabetes and overweight or obesity (28.2±2.9 kg/m2) were recruited to participate in this study at 6 weeks postpartum. The night before the study, participants orally consumed 3 doses of 70% deuterated water to label newly made fatty acids. Participants arrived in the morning for IV placement and immediately pumped milk contralaterally for 20 minutes. Milk was pumped two hours later, again at the end of step 1 of the clamp (10 mU/m2/min) and once more after step 2 (either 20 or 40 mU/m2/min). Milk triglycerides were extracted and prepared for analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The incorporation of deuterium into milk triglyceride-fatty acids was the primary outcome. Results: Fasting insulin concentrations were significantly associated with newly-made 16:0 in milk triglycerides (r=0.85, P=0.01). Of all measured triglyceride 16:0, 1.6±1.0% were made de novo. This percentage increased 1.5-fold by the end of step 2 of the clamp (P=0.06). Fasting milk DNL 14:0 was 12.3±4.8% which was significantly greater than DNL 16:0 (P&amp;lt;0.01). DNL 14:0 increased 1.7-fold during step 2 (P=0.04). For both milk triglyceride 12:0 and 14:0 derived from DNL, a significant effect across clamp-stage was observed (P&amp;lt;0.001 for both), but not an effect of group (P=0.12, P=0.11, respectively). Bonferroni posthoc analyses revealed that the insulin effect was significant for both groups for 12:0 (GDM, P=0.02; NGT, P &amp;lt;0.01) and 14:0 (GDM, P&amp;lt;0.01; NGT, P=0.01). Interpretation: The present study is the first to assess the acute effect of a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp on the synthesis of newly-made triglyceride fatty acids in human milk. These results suggest that the increases in mammary DNL may be fatty acid specific, favoring that of lauric and myristic acids, but not longer chain fatty acids like palmitate. Mammary lipogenesis was stimulated by insulin in all subjects regardless of recent gestational diabetes diagnosis. The role mammary DNL plays in overall milk fat content deserves further investigation. Presentation: 6/3/2024

12548 Mammary De Novo Lipogenesis During A Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic Clamp

Abstract Disclosure: T.M. Fordham: None. M. Ramos-Roman: None. E.J. Parks: Consulting Fee; Self; Simply Good Foods. Stock Owner; Self; Sagimet Biosciences. Other; Self; Past President of The Obesity Society. Introduction: The mammary produces large amounts of medium-chain saturated fatty acids. Long-chain saturated fatty acids found in human milk primarily derive from the maternal diet or from the mobilization of stored triglycerides. Previous studies have established the importance of insulin in stimulating mammary differentiation, milk synthesis, and lipogenesis. However, no studies have assessed how changes in insulin concentrations alter human mammary de novo lipogenesis (DNL) nor what effect gestational diabetes may have on insulin’s relationship to lipogenesis during lactation. Through the utilization of stable isotopes and the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp technique, we tested the differing concentrations of insulin to stimulate mammary DNL. Methods: Eight women (32±4 yrs) with (GDM, n=4) or without (NGT, n=4) recent gestational diabetes and overweight or obesity (28.2±2.9 kg/m2) were recruited to participate in this study at 6 weeks postpartum. The night before the study, participants orally consumed 3 doses of 70% deuterated water to label newly made fatty acids. Participants arrived in the morning for IV placement and immediately pumped milk contralaterally for 20 minutes. Milk was pumped two hours later, again at the end of step 1 of the clamp (10 mU/m2/min) and once more after step 2 (either 20 or 40 mU/m2/min). Milk triglycerides were extracted and prepared for analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The incorporation of deuterium into milk triglyceride-fatty acids was the primary outcome. Results: Fasting insulin concentrations were significantly associated with newly-made 16:0 in milk triglycerides (r=0.85, P=0.01). Of all measured triglyceride 16:0, 1.6±1.0% were made de novo. This percentage increased 1.5-fold by the end of step 2 of the clamp (P=0.06). Fasting milk DNL 14:0 was 12.3±4.8% which was significantly greater than DNL 16:0 (P&amp;lt;0.01). DNL 14:0 increased 1.7-fold during step 2 (P=0.04). For both milk triglyceride 12:0 and 14:0 derived from DNL, a significant effect across clamp-stage was observed (P&amp;lt;0.001 for both), but not an effect of group (P=0.12, P=0.11, respectively). Bonferroni posthoc analyses revealed that the insulin effect was significant for both groups for 12:0 (GDM, P=0.02; NGT, P &amp;lt;0.01) and 14:0 (GDM, P&amp;lt;0.01; NGT, P=0.01). Interpretation: The present study is the first to assess the acute effect of a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp on the synthesis of newly-made triglyceride fatty acids in human milk. These results suggest that the increases in mammary DNL may be fatty acid specific, favoring that of lauric and myristic acids, but not longer chain fatty acids like palmitate. Mammary lipogenesis was stimulated by insulin in all subjects regardless of recent gestational diabetes diagnosis. The role mammary DNL plays in overall milk fat content deserves further investigation. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Microbiota, metabolic profiles and immune biomarkers in infants receiving formula with added bovine milk fat globule membrane: a randomized, controlled trial.

Few studies have evaluated the effects of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) on microbiota and immune markers in early infant nutrition. In this double-blind randomized study, infants (7-18 days of age) received either bovine milk-based infant formula (Control) or similar formula with an added source (5 g/L) of bovine MFGM (INV-MFGM) for 60 days. A reference group received mother's own human milk over the same period (HM). Oral and stool samples were collected (Baseline and Day 60) to evaluate microbiota, immune markers, and metabolites. At Day 60, stool bacterial diversity and richness were higher in formula groups vs HM, as were Bifidobacterium bifidum and B. catenulatum abundance. Compared to HM, stool pH was higher in Control, while acetate, propionate, isovalerate, and total short- and branched-chain fatty acids were higher in INV-MFGM. Butyrate and lactate increased for INV-MFGM from baseline to Day 60. No group differences in oral microbiota or immune markers (α- and β-defensin, calprotectin, or sIgA) were detected, although sIgA increased over time in all study groups. Added bovine MFGM in infant formula modulated stool microbiota and short- and branched-chain fatty acids compared to human milk; changes were modest relative to control formula. Overall, distinct patterns of stool metabolites and microbiota development were observed based on early nutrition. ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04059666.