The Impact of bovine Somatotropin on Lactation in Dairy Cows

rbST has been utilized in commercial dairy production. This technology remains one of the most scientifically scrutinized yet regionally divisive biotechnologies in animal agriculture. This review discusses the impact of rbST on lactation in dairy cows. The primary mechanism involves rbST binding to hepatic and mammary receptors, stimulating the synthesis and secretion IGF-۱, which orchestrates nutrient partitioning toward the mammary gland. Meta-analyses confirm that rbST consistently elevates milk production by ۱۰% to ۱۵%, or ۳ to ۶ kg per day, without fundamentally altering milk fat and protein percentages, though overall component yields increase significantly. However, the heightened metabolic demand induced by rbST exacerbates NEB, predisposing cows to elevated incidences of mastitis, lameness, and reproductive failure. While life cycle assessments suggest a diluted carbon footprint per unit of milk produced, these environmental benefits are contingent upon maintaining herd health and longevity. Divergent global regulatory frameworks, driven by animal welfare concerns and consumer perception rather than human food safety risks, continue to shape the future trajectory of this productivity-enhancing technology. The review concludes that while rbST is a potent galactopoietic tool, its sustainable application necessitates a holistic approach that balances production gains with uncompromised animal welfare and system-level economic viability.

کلیدواژه ها:

Bovine Somatotrophin ، Dairy cows ، Galactopoisis ، lactation