Effect of chromium-propionate supplementation at late gestation on performance and metabolic profile of the beef cows, and skeletal muscle energy metabolism of the offspring

It is well established that late gestation maternal nutrition is important for both calf growth and muscle development. Energy demands increase at this time, and when challenged due to reduced feed sources, pose threats of negative postnatal outcomes[1]. Studies have shown that feed restriction in late gestation impairs insulin sensitivity, altering energy metabolism of skeletal muscle[2]. This invites the idea of determining nutritional strategies that targets insulin and glucose productivity in restricted feeds, to correct any reduced development in the calf. In this study, we chose to highlight the trace mineral chromium-propionate, which functions to increase tyrosine kinase receptor activity in target skeletal muscle and fat cells[3,4] .

This study is being conducted to determine if chromium-propionate supplementation in late gestation of beef cows improves energy status of the dam, performance of the offspring, and offspring skeletal muscle development. Through a random selection process, 100 third-trimester Angus beef cows were enrolled into two experimental groups fed a basal diet until parturition: CONTROL (n = 50), receiving the base mineral mixture; and CHROMIUM (n = 50), receiving additional 0.4% chromium-propionate. Full metabolic and muscle fiber profiles will be completed through late gestation 28-day cow blood/weight/ultrasound collections, along with postpartum colostrum sampling and calf muscle biopsy analysis.

The use of chromium-propionate could solve a subset of future herd losses for producers. Pregnant cows positively benefiting from its use may see improved metabolic control of insulin and glucose, which could present both successful reproduction cycles and higher producing offspring.