PhD Defense: Evaluation of various strategies to accelerate mammary gland involution at drying-off and study of the prolactin secretion regulation by glucocorticoids
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PhD Oral Defense of Benjamin Ponchon, Department of Animal Science
The transitions between lactation and dry periods constitute a very critical phase in the reproduction cycle of dairy cows. After cessation of milking, the mammary gland is highly susceptible to new intra-mammary infections because of udder engorgement and milk leakage as well as a weakened immune system. In the absence of teat stimulation and udder emptying, the mammary gland regresses during a remodeling process known as involution. This physiological event involves a decrease in milk component synthesis and secretion by mammary epithelial cells, renewing of a portion of the mammary epithelium, activation of different proteases and an increase in the permeability of tight junctions linking epithelial cells together. However, the exact elements triggering involution are not fully elucidated yet.
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