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751-6122-00L 3 Credits MSC D-USYS

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Physiology of Lactation

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Susanne E. Ulbrich, Prof. Rupert Bruckmaier

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:22:09

Abstract

As part of the course, students get to know the detailed processes that lead to the formation and secretion of milk in the context of mammalian lactation, particularly in livestock and wildlife.

Objective

The course aims at an understanding of the complex function of lactation. The acquired knowledge allows the students to assess both current and future potentials and problems which arise during the different stages of lactation.

Content

The interactive lecture, which is complemented by two days internship, allows students to aquire the detailed processes that lead to the formation and secretion of milk in mammals. These include the basic understanding of the development and functional stages of the mammary gland and its importance for the various farm animal species and humans as food. Also, hormonal changes which are occuring during the different stages of lactation, are discussed in detail. In addition, techniques of milk withdrawal are discussed in lectures and internship. These focus on the particularly challenging interactions between milking technology and the animal.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Students will receive the slides of the lessons as pdf in advance.

Literature

F. Döcke, "Veterinärmedizinische Endokrinologie"

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Physiology of Lactation The course takes place at the AgroVet-Strickhof on 3rd, 10th, 17th and 31st of March. There is also a compulsory block-course in Posieux, which will take place on 27-28th March.	17.03 Date 09:15-16:00 (LFW B 52)	3 h weekly

Offered In

Agricultural Sciences Master
- Major in Animal Sciences
  - Disciplinary Competences
    - Livestock Biology
- Minors
  - Principles of Livestock Systems (This minor will only be offered in the academic year 22/23. As of the academic year 23/24, the minor can no longer be chosen. The course units offered in the minor can still be taken as electives.)
  - Animal Sciences (This minor is new and in force from the academic year 22/23. The complete courselist for this minor will be published on the website of the Study Programme.)