Glutathione as an Alternative for Mitigating Postpartum Inflammation in Organic Dairy Cows

Postpartum uterine diseases (UTD) caused by bacterial infections cost U.S. dairy producers an estimated $1.9 billion annually. Conventional herds rely on antimicrobials to treat UTD, but organic dairy farmers lack such options. UTD induces severe inflammation and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to tissue damage. Glutathione, a naturally occurring tripeptide, regulates antioxidant defenses and detoxification. We hypothesize that glutathione supplementation will reduce uterine and immune cell ROS activity following bacterial challenge. To test this, uterine luminal epithelial and peripheral blood immune cells (n = 20) will be challenged in vitro with bacterial endotoxin and treated with increasing glutathione concentrations. Cell viability, proliferation, inflammatory response, and ROS levels will be measured. This project will generate critical preliminary data for USDA-NIFA-AFRI proposals under the Animal Health section. The proposed work aligns with BIOAg priorities to advance biologically intensive agricultural systems and support management practices compatible with USDA Organic Program standards.