Development and biomarker-based validation of a novel feed formulation for managing production diseases in dairy buffaloes.

INTRODUCTION: The critical period from 3 weeks prepartum to 3 weeks postpartum is considered the transition period and is characterized by major endocrinological and metabolic changes that can lead to production and infectious diseases. In addition, decreased dry matter intake and altered nutritional requirements are evident during this period. The objective of our study was to analyze the effects of transition feed fed to buffaloes on major hematobiochemical parameters, oxidative stress, cytokine levels, and mRNA expression of molecular markers associated with production diseases. METHODS: A total of 20 buffaloes were selected, irrespective of age and parity, and divided into two groups: a transition feed-supplemented group (Group I, n = 10) and a control group (Group II, n = 10). Proximate analysis of the transition feed was performed using the Weende method. Parameters such as body condition score, milk production, urine pH, hematobiochemical parameters, and oxidative stress markers were analyzed according to their respective optimized standard protocols. β-Hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (INF-γ) were evaluated using ELISA kits. Genes selected for hypocalcemia (SNF1-like kinase [NUAK1] and neuroendocrine secretory protein 55 [NESP55]), negative energy balance (carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1A [CPT1A] and insulin-like growth factor-1 [IGF-1]), and cytokines were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). RESULTS: Weende's analysis showed an improved chemical composition of the transition feed, while significant improvements in urine pH, white blood cell (WBC) counts, lymphocyte counts, red blood cell (RBC) counts, total protein, albumin, and antioxidant defense enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, were observed in Group I. The qPCR results showed significant upregulation of NUAK1 and CPT1A and downregulation of NESP55, IGF-1, and cytokines in the transition feed group compared with the control group. This indicates a decreased likelihood of hypocalcemia and negative energy balance in buffaloes in Group I. DISCUSSION: This study elucidates the importance of transition feed in buffaloes, providing valuable insights into improving health and preventing infectious and production diseases. Nutritional intervention during the transition period led to significant improvements in WBC count, granulocyte count, RBC count, hemoglobin (Hb), total protein, albumin, glucose, calcium, and sodium levels in the transition feed group.