Bovine somatotropin and lactation: from basic science to commercial application

Bovine somatotropin (bST) results in increased milk yield and an unprecedented improvement in efficiency. Beginning in the 1930s to present day, investigations have examined animal-related factors such as nutrition, bioenergetics, metabolism, health and well being and consumer-related factors such as milk quality, manufacturing characteristics, and product safety. Overall, bST is a homeorhetic control involved in orchestrating many physiological processes. Direct effects involve adaptations in many tissues and the metabolism of all nutrient classes--carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and minerals. Mechanisms include alterations in key enzymes, intracellular signal transduction systems, and tissue response to homeostatic signals. Indirect effects involve the mammary gland and are thought to be mediated by the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system. Specific changes include increased cellular rates of milk synthesis and enhanced maintenance of secretory cells. Indirect effects are modulated by environment and management factors, especially nutritional status. This modulation is a central component in allowing ST to play a key role in regulating nutrient utilization across a range of physiological situations. U.S. commercial use began in 1994, and adoption has been extensive. From a consumer perspective, bST was unique, and special interest groups loudly predicted dire consequences. However, introduction of bST had no impact on milk consumption, and milk labeled as recombinant bST-free occupies a minor niche market. From a producer perspective, commercial use verified scientific studies and enhanced net farm income. Overall, ST is a key homeorhetic control regulating nutrient partitioning, and the ST/IGF system plays a key role in animal performance and well being across a range of physiological situations.