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Physiology of Lactation
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:37:14
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 |
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| lecture with exercise |
Physiology of Lactation
The course takes place a ETH Zentrum on Friday 1.3. and 8.3.2024.
The course takes place in Bern on Friday 22.3.2024.
There is a compulsory block-course in Posieux, on Thursday-Friday 11.-12.4.2024.
The course takes place at AgroVet-Strickhof on Friday 19.4.2024 (from 13:00-18:00).
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3 h weekly |
Offered In
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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.)
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