This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Researchers at the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) are studying the relationship between the genetics of Nelore cattle and the microorganisms in their guts (microbiota). Nelore cattle are the most widely raised beef breed in Brazil.
The goal is to develop strategies that reduce emissions of methane—a major greenhouse gas—and improve the animals' feed efficiency. Luciana Regitano, a researcher at the Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste unit in São Carlos in the state of São Paulo, presented some of the key findings of the research. The presentation took place on Wednesday, Oct. 28, during FAPESP Week Netherlands.
In an interview with Agência FAPESP, Regitano explained that the team identified key factors in regulating cattle digestion and methane emissions. "Our data show how variation in the expression of microbial genes is directly connected to two factors of great economic and environmental interest: the volume of methane generated and the efficiency of feed utilization." Livestock farming is one of the main sources of greenhouse gases. Methane is produced during the natural digestion of cattle, a process commonly known as "cattle burping." In the rumen, the largest chamber of the animal's stomach, microorganisms break down plant fibers and produce the gas in the process.
In addition to its climate impact, this production consumes 2% to 12% of the energy that the cow would otherwise obtain from its feed. To understand and intervene in this process, the EMBRAPA team uses a combination of molecular biology techniques to simultaneously analyze DNA, RNA, proteins and other chemical substances. "We analyze the tissues of the cattle and the components of the microbiota in their digestive systems," said Regitano.
By mapping the RNA molecules produced in the rumen, the scientists identified enzymes linked to improved feed utilization and reduced methane production. These enzymes represent biotechnological targets for developing new feed additives for cattle. "The detailed identification of rumen enzymes and metabolic pathways paves the way for biotechnological solutions applicable to beef cattle production," the researcher stated.
One of the most advanced lines of research involves formulating compounds that can block or slow down the enzymes responsible for methane formation. Although commercial additives that act at the end of this process already exist, EMBRAPA's data reveal new metabolic pathways for creating more precise and efficient inhibitors. However, intervening in cattle digestion requires caution.
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