Immunomediator and milk protein gene expression in mammary tissue during endotoxin-induced mastitis

Gene expression of major milk proteins did not change significantly in response to the LPS challenge (αS1-casein (CN), αS2-CN, β-CN and β-lactoglobulin) except for α-lactalbumin which decreased in LPS-treated and control quarters and for κ-CN which decreased in the LPS-treated quarters. In conclusion, gene expression of the majority albeit not all inflammatory factors changed within hours of LPS challenge. Decreased gene expression of α-lactalbumin and κ-CN may reduce milk yield and suitability for cheese production.