Univ.-Prof. Dr. Jörg R. Aschenbach
Königsweg 56, Hs. 11
14163 Berlin

Tel. +49 30 838 62600
eMail: joerg.aschenbach@fu-berlin.de

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The understanding of the metabilic adaptability of high-yielding dairy cows in different reproduction and lactation states requires a detailed assessment of the different regulatory planes of metabolic processes. Our research is focused on the elucidation and targeted dietary manipulation of such processes.

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In order to understand the range of metabolic adaptation to different stages of reproduction and lactation in high-performance cattle and the influence of different feed additives, it is necessary to take a detailed look at the different levels of metabolic regulation. Our research aims to identify and specifically influence such metabolic processes through diet. In integrative approaches, studies are carried out both on cell cultures (currently bovine adipocytes in particular) and on living animals.

The methodological spectrum is very diverse and includes transcriptomic approaches (quantitative RT-PCR, oligonucleotide microarrays) and analyses of protein expression (Western blots) as well as a range of functional tests to assess metabolic processes. Our main objective is the identification of molecular targets that are of central importance for metabolic health in critical production phases and their targeted influence by natural feed ingredients. Against this background, there is close thematic cooperation with the 'Phytogenic Substances' research group.

Bioinformatic methods, which have been specially developed to evaluate the cattle metabolism assay, help to visualize the effects of treatments on the expression of metabolic genes.