95959 - Metabolism in Farm Animals

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students are able to apply knowledge of biochemical pathways and metabolic regulation in different tissues and species and methods to evaluate cellular metabolism to maintain or improve the health and welfare of production animals

Course contents

Overview of cell metabolism: the sum of the enzyme-catalyzed reactions of the metabolic pathways involved in the degradative or biosynthesis phase of macromolecules.

Regulation of metabolism: hormonal control of metabolism aims to understand the roles of insulin, glucagon, and catecholamines in coordinating metabolism in different tissues and in regulating energy production.

Rumen metabolism: rumen fermentation of polysaccharides and ATP yeld in rumen fermentation of carbohydrates. Protein degradation and catabolism of nitrogen compounds in the rumen. Rumen metabolism of ammonia and amino acid synthesis. Lipid metabolism and rumen production of methane.

Readings/Bibliography

Slides of the lecture and papers cited therein.

Suggested books for a deeper study:

Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry Eighth Edition| ©2021 David L. Nelson; Michael M. Cox - Macmillan Learning

Teaching methods

The presentation of each subject is supported by the simultaneous projection of illustrations and schemes to facilitate understanding. Seminars could be requested by students too deepen subjects of specific farm animal interest.

Assessment methods

Metabolism in farm animals will be assessed through a written test including multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Any mid-term tests may be carried out during the course, in agreement with the students.

Teaching tools

Blackboard, video-projector, PC.

Office hours

See the website of Salvatore Nesci

See the website of Silvia Granata