Prof. Francisco Javier Dieguez Casalta

Santiago de Compostela University
Spain

Abstract Title: Ghrelin Levels in Dairy Calves: Influence of Postnatal Separation from the Dam

Biography:

Veterinarian graduated from the University of Santiago de Compostela (USC) in 2001 and earned a PhD there in 2007. He also holds a Diploma in Design and Statistics in Health Sciences (UAB, 2003) and a Master's in Health Research Methodology (UAB, 2007). Since graduation, he has worked on research projects focused on infectious diseases in domestic animals, particularly ruminants. He began teaching in 2008 in USC's Animal Production area and has coordinated several subjects. Currently, he leads a research group on milk and food quality. His interests include animal health, welfare, and wildlife management, and he is a resident of the ECAWBM.

Research Interest:

This study aimed to evaluate serum ghrelin concentrations in dairy calves managed under two different systems: (1) conventional separation from the dam immediately after birth and (2) dam-calf contact for at least 24 hours postpartum. Data were collected from eight Holstein dairy farms in Galicia, Spain. Serum samples were taken from 24 calves in the dam-calf contact system and 24 calves in the conventional system at three time points: just before separation (T1), two days after separation (T2), and seven days after separation (T3). Ghrelin concentrations were measured using a commercial ELISA kit, and statistical analyses were conducted using mixed linear models. Results revealed that calves allowed dam contact exhibited significantly lower ghrelin concentrations at all sampling times compared to those separated immediately after birth. These findings suggest that early maternal contact may reduce hunger-driven ghrelin secretion, likely due to improved satiety, reduced stress, and enhanced gut development. This study highlights the influence of early-life management on endocrine responses in dairy calves and supports the potential welfare and metabolic benefits of dam-calf contact systems. Further research is needed to explore the long-term impacts on calf development and production efficiency.