The Effects of Supplemented Conjugated Linoleic Acid on Lipid Metabolism in Cattle

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is produced by bacterial biohydrogenation in the rumen of cattle, fulfills various biological functions, and is known for anti-obesity, anti-inflammation, anti-cancer, and other beneficial effects. It has numerous isomers, of which cis-9,trans-11 CLA accounts for 80% of total CLA, followed by trans-10,cis-12 CLA (t10,c12 CLA), with distinct molecular structures, oxidation efficiencies, activities, and functions. Different effects were observed, when isomers were individually supplemented in livestock nutrition. Currently, CLA is supplemented into the diets of dairy cows to improve the energy balance, and avoid negative effects of energy loss during the transition period. Furthermore, t10,c12 CLA was shown to reduce subcutaneous fat and to improve intramuscular fat (IMF) content in the carcasses of ruminants and pigs. Increasing the IMF content without increasing other fat depots and without compromising feed efficiency is an important goal in beef production. However, inconsistent and conflicting results were reported partly based on different study designs. This review aims to summarize studies on CLA supplementation in cattle, focusing on t10,c12 CLA and the effects of the dose, time, and method of supplementation on energy balance, milk yield and body composition, as well as on individual cells in vitro. This may improve our understanding of energy-saving and repartitioning effects of CLA in cattle.