Project
Biomarkers and immune modulators of natural resistance of dairy cows
This project aims to identify biomarkers indicative for the immune status or “natural resistance” of dairy cows and to identify (management) factors that influence this natural resistance (= immune modulators).
The biomarkers will be measured in milk and blood samples and their levels will be related to the disease susceptibility of the cows. It will also be determined how changes in management factors, aimed at increasing the natural resistance of the dairy cows, affects the levels of these biomarkers. This project should finally result in a test kit for biomarkers to determine in an objective way the “natural resistance” status of a dairy cow and a list of management tools that can be used to improve this natural resistance.
PhD student:
Christina van Altena
Supervisor:
Edwin Tijhaar
