Preliminary Study on Rumen Degradation of Proteins Having Different Molecular Weights from Malunggay (Moringa oleifera Lam) leaves

This study aimed to assess the ruminal degradation of Moringa oleifera leaves using the in-sacco technique and SDS-PAGE analysis. Three drying methods (fresh, cool-dried, and oven-dried) were evaluated using two fistulated cows. Five-gram samples were incubated in the rumen for varying durations (6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours), and SDS-PAGE was employed for protein analysis. The results revealed that most proteins in M. oleifera underwent degradation within the first 6 to 12 hours of incubation across all drying methods. However, cool-dried and oven-dried samples retained certain proteins even after 12 to 72 hours of incubation. Notably, proteins with molecular weights of approximately 120.0, 51.0, 37.6, and 26.583 kDa persisted in these samples, suggesting resistance to complete degradation in the rumen. These proteins may serve as a source of amino acids in the lower gastrointestinal tract, potentially influencing milk production in dairy animals. In conclusion, this study identifies specific M. oleifera proteins that resist ruminal degradation, highlighting their potential role in amino acid supply and their possible impact on milk production in dairy animals.