Working Group Endocrinology of Farm Animals

Hormones regulate the growth and metabolism of cells, tissues and the entire organism. The Farm Animal Endocrinology Research Group at the Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN) investigates how key hormonal axes are regulated in pigs, domestic cattle, and domestic buffalo, and how they influence the animals’ adaptation to their environment.

Hormonal axes and biological rhythms

Hormonal processes are controlled by both endogenous timers and signals from the environment. Our research focuses on the growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor axis (GH/IGF axis) as well as the effects of thyroid hormones. We analyse how these hormonal systems regulate growth, energy expenditure, and metabolism and how they respond to changes in environmental and husbandry conditions.
The findings contribute to a better understanding of physiological adaptation processes in farm animals. The aim is to establish a scientific basis for animal-friendly, health-promoting, and environmentally adapted husbandry of pigs, cattle, and buffalo.

Research with cattle and domestic buffalo

Another key focus is our collaboration with the German Buffalo Association (DBüV) and the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania State Research Institute for Agriculture and Fisheries (LFA MV). Together, we address specific issues relating to animal husbandry and breeding and translate them into scientific studies.

Selenium supply and parasite management

Current research questions concern the provision of selenium in line with nutritional requirements, as well as parasite management in cattle and domestic buffalo. In this way, the research group combines basic endocrinological research with practical solutions for animal health, husbandry and management. The findings are intended to support breeding farms and livestock farmers in making informed decisions.