Maternal periconceptional and first trimester protein restriction in beef heifers: effects on maternal performance and early fetal growth

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of protein restriction during the periconception (PERI) and first trimester (POST) periods on maternal performance, physiology and early fetal growth. Yearling nulliparous heifers (n = 360) were individually fed a diet high or low in protein (HPeri and LPeri respectively) beginning 60 days before conception. From 24 to 98 days post-conception (dpc), half of each treatment group changed to the alternative post-conception high- or low-protein diet (HPost and LPost respectively), yielding four groups in a 2 × 2 factorial design with a common diet until parturition. Protein restriction was associated with lower bodyweight subsequent to reduced (but positive) average daily weight gain (ADG) during the PERI and POST periods. During the POST period, ADG was greater in LPeri than HPeri heifers and tended to be greater in LPost than HPost heifers during the second and third trimester. Bodyweight was similar at term. The pregnancy rate did not differ, but embryo loss between 23 and 36 dpc tended to be greater in LPeri than HPeri heifers. Overall, a greater proportion of male fetuses was detected (at 60 dpc 63.3% male vs 36.7% female). Protein restriction altered maternal plasma urea, non-esterified fatty acids, progesterone, leptin and insulin-like growth factor 1 at critical stages of fetal development. However, profiles varied depending on the sex of the conceptus.