China Dairy ›› 2026, Vol. 0 ›› Issue (6): 12-20.doi: 10.12377/1671-4393.26.06.02

• RUMINANT NUTRITION AND HEALTH • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Research Progress on the Molecular Mechanisms and Applications of Nutrient Regulation of Immune Function in Dairy Ruminants

LEI Jianghong1, SHI Longfei2, WANG Qing1, QI Yahui1, ZHAO Min1   

  1. 1. Shaanxi Provincial Animal Health and Slaughter Management Station,Xi'an Shaanxi 710016;
    2. Xi'an Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center,Xi'an Shaanxi 710054
  • Online:2026-06-25 Published:2026-07-22

Abstract: The immune function of dairy ruminants is a core factor in safeguarding their health status,production performance,and product quality.Nutrients,as the material basis for life activities,also serve as key signaling molecules regulating immune function.Through multiple pathways,such as directly acting on immune cells or indirectly modulating the gastrointestinal microbiota,nutrients profoundly influence the immune function of dairy ruminants.This paper systematically reviewed the direct regulatory mechanisms of key nutrients,such as amino acids and fatty acids,on immune cells,the indirect immune regulatory pathways of nutrients via the gastrointestinal microbiota and their metabolites,the role of nutrients in maintaining the intestinal physical and immune barrier,and the functions of nutrients in alleviating oxidative stress and regulating the balance of inflammatory cytokines.Furthermore,it summarized application strategies for immune enhancement,including the use of functional feed additives,precision nutrition,and phase-feeding.The aim is to provide a theoretical reference for formulating precision nutrition plans,enhancing immunity,and promoting healthy farming practices for dairy ruminants.

Key words: dairy ruminant, nutrient, immune function, gastrointestinal microbiota, intestinal barrier, inflammation regulation

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