Reproductive performance and reducing involuntary culling 

Methionine  intervenes at several key stages of the reproduction cycle:

• Follicle quality: more estradiol and better size
• Better uterine environment: less polymorphonuclear neutrophils  (PMN)/inflammation, more  lipids/energy as nutrient for the embryo
• Embryo composition: more lipid, bigger size
• Pregnancy recognition: increase concentration of interferon tau (embryo size) 

Mycotoxin contamination is a silent but significant threat to reproductive performance in dairy cattle. By disrupting hormonal balance, impairing immune function, and inducing oxidative stress, mycotoxins compromise fertility at multiple levels — ultimately increasing involuntary culling and reducing herd profitability.

• Impairs Fertility & Conception Rates – Zearalenone (ZEA) mimics estrogen and disrupts the hormonal axis, leading to irregular estrus, poor oocyte quality, and reduced conception rates.
• Damages Uterine Health – Mycotoxin-induced immunosuppression increases the incidence of retained placenta, metritis, and postpartum complications.Increases 
• Stress – Trichothecenes and aflatoxins generate ROS that impair reproductive cell integrity and suppress immune defenses during the transition period.