Milk protein production and plasma 3-methylhistidine concentration in lactating Holstein cows exposed to high ambient temperatures

This experiment was performed to examine the influences of high ambient temperature on milk production, nutrient digestibility, energy and protein sufficiency ratio, and plasma metabolites concentration in lactating cows. In a 2x2 crossover design, four multiparous lactating Holstein cows were maintained in a chamber under treatment of constant moderate (18 C) ambient temperature (MT) or high (28 degrees C) ambient temperatures (HT). The DMI and milk protein yield were significantly lower in HT (p < 0.05). The milk yield, milk lactose yield, and milk SNF yield tended to be lower in HT (p < 0.10). No statistical differences for 4% fat-corrected milk and milk fat yield were observed. Rectal temperatures were significantly higher in HT than MT (p < 0.05). The apparent DM, OM, ether extract, CF, and ash digestibility did not differ between treatments. On the other hand, the apparent CP digestibility was increased significantly (p < 0.05) and nitrogen free extract tended to increase (p < 0.10) in HT The sufficiency ratio of ME and DCP intake for each requirement tended to be lower in HT than in MT (p < 0.10). Concentrations of total protein (TP), albumin, and urea nitrogen in plasma did not differ between treatments. Plasma 3-methylhistidine (3MH) concentration as a marker of myofibrillar protein degradation tended to be higher in HT (p < 0.15). In conclusion, high ambient temperature was associated with a lower energy and protein sufficiency ratio, and decreased milk protein production, even though the body protein mobilization tended to be higher.