Buffalo milk is increasingly becoming the focus of research due to its rich nutritional profile and potential health benefits, but concerns surrounding milk quality often stem from conditions like mastitis. A recent study has unveiled important findings about exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) from buffalo milk, shedding light on their role as possible biomarkers for sub-clinical mastitis. This research is the first to explore the expressions of specific miRNAs, namely miR-148a and miR-186, and their resilience during processing methods such as boiling and pasteurization.
The study conducted by researchers from various institutions involved the collection and analysis of milk samples from buffaloes, categorizing them as healthy, afflicted by sub-clinical mastitis, or commercially pasteurized. Among the tested samples, significant differences were noted, particularly with the somatic cell counts (SCC) which are indicators of milk quality and mastitis risk. With SCC levels higher than 3.15 × 105 cells/ml observed in cows with sub-clinical mastitis, it is evident there is increased risk and economic burden on dairy production.
Previous concerns about mastitis primarily focus on its severe economic impact and potential alteration of the milk’s nutritional quality, making effective diagnosis and monitoring imperative. The findings suggest significant elevations of miR-148a and miR-186 were found within the milk of buffaloes with sub-clinical mastitis, providing potential for these miRNAs to serve as reliable biomarkers.
"This finding highlights the importance of clean milk production and the need to understand the mechanisms of miRNA transfer between species, which is key for animal health and milk production," said the authors of the article. This establishes the notion of milk not merely as food, but also as a source of signaling molecules capable of influencing health.
The study showcased rigorous methodology to assess miRNA expression. Individual milk samples underwent processing to reveal the resilience of miRNAs during boiling and pasteurization. Results exhibited how these miRNAs maintained their structural integrity and functional roles even after subjection to high temperatures. For example, miR-148a showed variations of expression across different types of milk where it exhibited a remarkable increase from normal to sub-clinically mastitis affected milk, demonstrating strong potential as a diagnostic marker.
Importantly, these miRNAs were shown to sustain their viability even after boiling, indicating their persistent presence and potential absorption by consumers, raising concerns about their role and effects on human health. "Elevated expressions of miR-148a and miR-186 before and after boiling indicate their potential as biomarkers for sub-clinical mastitis," highlighted the authors. Their data suggest careful consideration of miRNA levels could improve diagnostic and management practices among dairy farmers.
Despite the promising findings, the study points to the need for future inquiries to validate these biomarkers and investigate their impacts thoroughly. Understanding the mechanisms of miRNA interactions and their health implications when transferred through milk could potentially transform how milk is perceived from farm to table. The potential of miRNAs to affect health at such levels only emphasizes the significance of quality control and thorough diagnostic practices within the dairy industry.
Overall, the study encourages more extensive research on buffalo milk's exosomal miRNAs as they hold promise not only for diagnosing mastitis but for ensuring milk safety for consumers.