Microbial dysbiosis in the gut–mammary axis as a mechanism for mastitis in dairy cows

Abstract

Mastitis is a significant and costly disease in dairy cows, reducing milk production and affecting herd health. Recent research highlights the role of gastrointestinal microbial dysbiosis in the development of mastitis. This review focuses on how microbial imbalances in the rumen and intestines can compromise the integrity of the gastrointestinal barriers, allowing harmful bacteria and endotoxins, such as lipopolysaccharide, to enter the bloodstream and reach the mammary gland, triggering inflammation. This process links gastrointestinal health to mammary gland inflammation through the gut–mammary axis. Furthermore, disruptions in glucose metabolism and immune responses are implicated in the progression of mastitis. This review underscores the potential for non-antibiotic interventions aimed at restoring microbial balance to reduce mastitis incidence, providing new insights into improving dairy cow health and farm productivity. Our findings emphasise the critical need to explore preventive measures targeting the rumen and intestinal microbiota for effective mastitis control.