Foundations and Functions of the Bovine Immune System: A Blueprint for Modern Herd Health Management

Optimizing cattle health is critical for global food security, yet infectious diseases persist as a major economic burden. Dairy cows are highly susceptible during the periparturient transition, and neonatal calves face significant mortality. A profound understanding of bovine immunology is therefore essential. Cattle exhibit unique adaptations, such as elevated neonatal γδ T cells, antibodies with extended CDR۳ regions, and a functional entero-mammary immune axis. Key challenges are persistent, immunosuppressive infections like BVDV and BLV, and the variable efficacy of vaccines against disease complexes like BRD. Sustaining herd health demands an integrated strategy: guaranteeing passive immunity through quality colostrum, applying strategic vaccination, and ensuring precise nutritional support for immune function. Additionally, modulating the gut microbiome and utilizing supportive therapies—including probiotics, egg yolk immunoglobulins (IgY), and anti-inflammatory agents—are vital. Future priorities include refining vaccine platforms, minimizing antimicrobial dependence, and implementing holistic management to bolster innate and adaptive immunity. This multifaceted approach is fundamental to enhancing animal welfare, productivity, and sustainable cattle production.

کلیدواژه ها:

health ، infectiuos ، immunology ، vaccine