Dietary quercetin supplementation alleviates claw lesions in dairy cows by modulating the PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways.
Authors: Zhai Changhong, Lin Jingyi, Yang Xiaonan, Mu Jing, Lei Lei, Wu Wende, Zheng Yimin, Shi Mingxian, Ma Chunxia, Peng Hao, Li Gonghe, Ding Jiafeng
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Editorial Summary Lameness from claw lesions represents a significant welfare and economic challenge across dairy operations globally, yet conventional treatments—including long-term NSAID administration—carry drawbacks such as gastrointestinal complications and potential milk residue concerns. Zhai and colleagues investigated whether dietary quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid with established anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, could reduce claw lesion severity in lactating dairy cows through modulation of cellular signalling pathways. The researchers observed that quercetin supplementation meaningfully alleviated claw lesion scores, with improvements attributed to downregulation of the pro-inflammatory NF-κB pathway and upregulation of the protective PI3K/Akt signalling cascade, mechanisms that reduce both inflammation and oxidative stress at the tissue level. These findings suggest that incorporating quercetin as a dietary supplement offers a systemic alternative to topical and pharmacological interventions, potentially addressing lameness prevention more comprehensively whilst eliminating drug residue risks in milk production. Given the cost-effectiveness of quercetin and its multifactorial bioactivity, farriers, veterinarians, and nutritionists should consider this approach as part of an integrated hoof health strategy, particularly for herds experiencing endemic claw disease where conventional management has proven insufficient.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Quercetin dietary supplementation may reduce reliance on NSAIDs for managing claw lesions, avoiding gastrointestinal complications and drug residues in milk
- •Consider quercetin as a preventative nutritional strategy for lameness management on dairy farms alongside trimming and environmental improvements
- •Natural flavonoid supplementation offers a practical, economical option for hoof health that warrants on-farm evaluation
Key Findings
- •Dietary quercetin supplementation reduced claw lesion severity in dairy cows through modulation of PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling pathways
- •Quercetin demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects as an alternative to long-term NSAID administration
- •Quercetin is a cost-effective, naturally abundant flavonoid suitable for livestock management applications