Mammary gland cell’s tight junction permeability from dairy cows producing stable or unstable milk in the ethanol test

Abstract

Tight junctions are almost impermeable structures located near the apical border of epithelial cells; increase in the permeability of mammary gland cells’ tight junctions may alter milk composition and its suitability for industrialization. Sixteen Holstein dairy cows were studied to evaluate mammary gland cells’ tight junction permeability (indicated by plasma lactose levels) from cows producing stable or unstable milk to ethanol at 72 °GL concentration. Rectal temperature, respiratory rate and milk parameters were also compared and weather conditions (temperature–humidity index) monitored. Temperature–humidity index did not vary for cows producing stable or unstable milk, so there were no differences in physiological traits. Cows producing unstable milk presented elevated tight junctions’ permeability, probably due to higher days in milk. The odds of cows producing unstable milk (clots formation when mixed with ethanol below or equal 72 °GL) increases according to elevations in days in milk and tight junction permeability.