Prophylaxis of mastitis in cattle using novel biomatrices from marine organisms

Multi-resistant pathogens cause infections that are difficult to treat. Therefore, alternative material development, which naturally prevents the spread of multi-resistant pathogens in livestock using ingredients that inhibit colonization and stimulate the immune system, is urgently needed. As part of the project, substances are to be developed that prevent the growth of resistant germs on cow udder teats (mastitis). An innovative process for microencapsulation of marine organisms could make these health-promoting ingredients usable with an efficiency that would not be achieved with untreated biomasses. In order to achieve this goal, new types of biomatrices based on antibacterial microalgae should be developed that use the parallel effect of both, biological and physical mechanisms for prophylaxis. Due to complex requirements in animal husbandry, existing antimicrobial algae have to be tested for animal pathogens, as well as further development of microencapsulation methods, special semi-solid formulations and novel test methods. At the projects end, the aim is to examine the suitability for practical use of new biomatrices on an in vitro skin model of cow udder teat. The proposed concept could prevent spreading of multi-resistant pathogens and thus significantly reduce antibiotics in dairy farming.