Pre- and Post-partum Serum Concentration of Adiponectin, Leptin, and Ghrelin and Their Ability to Predict the Reproductive Performance and Milk Production Indexes in Holstein Dairy Cows

Background: Adiponectin, leptin, and ghrelin are metabolism regulatory factors affecting milk production and reproductive performance. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the adiponectin, leptin, and ghrelin serum concentration in predicting Holstein cows’ reproductive and milk production indexes in the post-partum period. Methods: In this research, 45 clinically healthy and pregnant Holstein dairy cows were randomly selected near the forthcoming calving. Blood samples were taken from the jugular veins of cows 15 days before and after parturition, and serum concentrations of adiponectin, leptin, ghrelin, and some other metabolic biochemical parameters were measured. The animals were monitored for milk production and reproductive parameters for 3 consecutive months. Results: Findings showed no significant difference in adiponectin concentration between the pregnant and non-pregnant cows following the first artificial insemination (AI); however, pre- and post-partum serum concentrations of leptin, ghrelin, and insulin were higher in conceived cows following the first AI (P<0.05). A significant negative correlation was found between post-partum serum adiponectin concentration, the number of services before conception, and mean milk production levels (P<0.05). However, adiponectin did not have a long-lasting effect on the reproductive and milk production indexes because of other studied variables. Conclusion: It was concluded that the post-partum increased serum adiponectin and ghrelin and decreased leptin concentrations could not predict the reproductive and milk production indexes.