On June 4 and 5, 2025, in Angers, the International Symposium on Natural Bovine Reproduction brought together numerous partners from all over France and many other countries (Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, England, Hungary, Ireland, Turkey, Morocco, Iran, Kazakhstan, etc.) for two half-days.
February 7, 2025
Challenges for future cattle reproduction and challenges for the reproductive system during the peripartum period
The first day was devoted to presentations by researchers and practitioners. Dr. M.-A. Selosse introduced the concept of One Health and highlighted the influence of microbiota on animal behavior. Prof. C. Hanzen then addressed the many challenges faced by cows during the peripartum period: inflammatory responses, activation of the immune system, oxidative stress, etc. All these factors contribute to delayed involution, endometritis, metritis, anoestrus and embryonic abortions, with an impact on fertility and fecundity. He also highlighted the influence of the cow's physiological status on the diversity of its microbiota. Dr. Lebrun complemented this approach by presenting the uterine microbiota and bacterial associations specific to vaginal infections. GD Biotech's work has highlighted the diversity of the microbiota and its link to reproductive performance.
Focus on Natual's expertise and feedback on various trials and testimonials attesting to the effectiveness of Metrabol bolus.
On the second day, Techna Natual teams presented the company's expertise and demonstrated the effectiveness of Metrabol in France and internationally through the presentation of recent trials and user testimonials. GAEC Stivan, the Origen Plus cooperative, and Dr. Kranjec (Hungarian partner) took the floor to share their field experience in reproduction with the audience and demonstrate the benefits of using Metrabol at the herd level. In addition, a model of the return on investment for Metrabol, based on usage and farm characteristics, was presented by Florian Moreau, Head of Innovation. This allows farmers to better identify the return on investment by entering a few key data points about their farm into the application. The results are available in just a few minutes. In conclusion, a support plan for our partners over the coming months was unveiled.
New findings on the uterine microbiota
New trials have demonstrated significant physiological impacts of METRABOL at calving in dairy cows: -53% haptoglobin (a key marker of inflammation), +130% healthy cervix. These indicators, which are markers of improved immunity and a healthy balance of the uterine microbiota, show a faster return to a functional state of the reproductive system after calving.
Metrabol Challenge Trophy Presentation
Loïc Chalony (Natual Managing Director) and Jean-Marc Benoist (Natual Sales Director) presented the winners of the Metrabol challenge with their awards. Over a nine-month period, partner cooperatives competed to increase their sales of Metrabol. Those that achieved the best results were presented with a trophy and a cash prize. First prize went to Eleveurs de Savoir, second prize to Geneform, and third prize to Ain Génétique service. It was an opportunity to recognize the achievements made throughout the challenge period.
Speakers:
Dr. Marc-André Selosse, Biologist and professor at the National Museum of Natural History,
Dr. Christian Hanzen - Honorary Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Liège,
Mr. Fabrice Bidan, Project Manager for All Species Reproduction at the Institute of Animal Breeding,
Dr. Ali Bazzazan, Doctor specializing in uterine immune responses and microbiota,
Dr. Ségolène Lebrun Scientific Business Developer - GD Biotech
To find out more
Natual is a range of plant-based nutritional supplements designed to support the physiological functions of farm animals and crops, and in particular their natural defences.