Fuenzalida’s main research goal is to understand the impact of an intramammary infection on fertility, milk production, milk quality, and animal health. The second goal that guides her research is to determine appropriate and effective strategies to prevent and control an intramammary infection.
Mastitis is one of the most common and costly diseases affecting dairy cows in the U.S., leading to significant losses for farmers due to treatment expenses, reduced milk production, and increased risks of culling. Chronic mastitis cases present an even greater challenge, highlighting a critical need for better solutions. This project aims to deepen the understanding of how dairy cows’ immune systems respond to bacterial infections, paving the way for improved treatment strategies. A key component of this research is the use of an ultracentrifuge, a specialized tool that allows scientists to analyze important immune molecules and develop targeted approaches to managing mastitis. Funding for this equipment through the Dairy Innovation Hub will expand research capabilities and enhance student learning opportunities, ultimately supporting farm productivity and animal health across Wisconsin’s dairy industry.