Improving the stability and concentration of Megasphaera elsdenii NCIMB 41125

Acidosis in ruminant animals (beef cattle, dairy cows, and sheep)is a metabolic condition that causes problems for animals fed high-grain diets. Orally dosing animals with a strain of bacteria, Megasphaera elsdenii, has been shown to be beneficial in alleviating or decreasing this metabolic problem. This bacteria is very sensitive to environments containing oxygen and to date has a fairly short shelf life of 14 days. The goal of our research is first to optimize the growth rate of the organism by modifying the solution in which it is grown. Secondly, to increase the stability and survival rate of the organism by modifying the solution in which it is stored. Lastly, to concentrate the current dose size by improved growth rate and filtration. It is also important to evaluate the survival rate of the organim in a variety of temperatures in which it could face during transit and subsequent storage at each respective farm. Many of the solutes that will be added to the growth solution or storage solution have been shown to be protective of bacteria to high osmotic pressure and temperature changes in the environment. Once the product is cleared, improving the currnet product will allow for greater market share, improved ease for farmers, ranchers, and producers utilizing the product.