The Relationships of Plasma Leptin, Backfat Thickness and TDN Intake across Finishing Stage of Holstein Steers

Vega, R. A.; Hidari, H.; Kuwayama, H.; Suzuki, M.; Manalo, D. D.

doi:2004.17.3.330

Article

Animal Breeding and Genetics

Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences 2004;17(3): 330-336.
https://doi.org/10.5713/ajas.2004.330 Published online January 1, 2004.

The Relationships of Plasma Leptin, Backfat Thickness and TDN Intake across Finishing Stage of Holstein Steers

R. A. Vega, H. Hidari, H. Kuwayama, M. Suzuki, D. D. Manalo

Abstract

Six 16 months old Holstein steers were offered ad libitum feed for 7 months, to determine the (1) relationships of backfat thickness (BFT) to plasma leptin, and insulin; and (2) associations of TDN intake/kg body weight (BW) to plasma leptin, BFT and insulin. Feed intake, body weight and BFT were measured on selected monthly ages from day 1 to 8, day 1 and 8, and day 8, respectively. Blood was sampled on day 8 and the plasma was analyzed for leptin, insulin, glucose, NEFA, total cholesterol and triglyceride. Body weight and BFT increased, while TDN intake per kg BW decreased from 16 to 23 months old. Plasma leptin increased and mimicked the level of insulin, resulting to significant correlation (r=0.54; p<0.002). TDN intake was negatively related to plasma leptin (r=0.49; p<0.004), insulin (r=0.41; p<0.02) and BFT at 12 to 13th rib (r=0.48; p<0.005). Backfat thickness at 12 to 13th rib was positively related to plasma leptin (r=0.45; p<0.01). Negative associations of TDN intake with plasma leptin and BFT during finishing period suggest long-term involvement of adipose tissues in the feed intake regulation of steers fed high concentrate diet

Keywords: Leptin; TDN Intake; Backfat Thickness; Holstein Steers