Niels Blees
MSc, DVM
Utrecht University, Faculty Of Veterinary Medicine
After graduating and working in private practice as a veterinarian, Niels Blees, MSc., DVM, began his Ph.D. program and concurrent residency at the European College of Veterinary Comparative Nutrition at Utrecht University. With his project, he collaborates with Darling Ingredients to study the potential effects of collagen hydrolysates in dogs with osteoarthritis. In 2023, Blees won the ESVCN-Waltham Award for his work on the bioavailability of collagen hydrolysates in dogs, leading to presenting the work at the American Association of Veterinary Nutrition conference. He has taught post-graduate courses on nutrition for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, teaching students and taking them along in the amazing world of pet food and nutrition.
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Tue Apr 29 1:30 PM - 2:35 PM | Pet food nutrition sessions: Focus on senior pets KCCC 2104A-B - Bioavailability and effects of collagen hydrolysates using an in vivo to in vitro approach for canine osteoarthritis — Niels Blees, MSc., DVM, Ph.D. student, Utrecht University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, presents results of a study researching the bioavailability of collagen hydrolysates (CH) in dogs, currently unknown, as potential nutritional support for canine osteoarthritis (OA). Available in vitro studies on the biological mechanisms during OA add the intact supplement rather than the digested and metabolized product, and may therefore lack biological relevance. In this study, Blees aimed to determine the bioavailability of CH provided in different dosages and to assess the effects of CH on pro-inflammatory stimulated synovial cells and chondrocytes by subjecting the cells to serum collected from dogs receiving the dietary supplement. This may be the first study in dogs combining bioavailability and the use of the in vivo to in vitro enriched serum model in the context of nutraceuticals; the model could improve translation of in vitro results to in vivo disease.
- Enhancing muscle health and longevity in aging canines with HMB supplementation — Shawn Baier, vice president of business development, TSI Group Co., proposes that as companion animals live longer, age-related muscle loss has become a critical focus for improving quality of life. HMB (β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate) supplementation, widely recognized for its muscle-preserving benefits in humans, shows similar promise for aging dogs. Baier presents results of a study investigating HMB’s impact on muscle health, protein metabolism and overall vitality in senior canines. Early findings suggest that dogs receiving HMB retained muscle mass more effectively and demonstrated increased energy expenditure and voluntary activity, with improved outcomes in physical fitness assessments compared to non-supplemented dogs.
- Flavor preference in cats across life stages — Ana Rita Monforte, Ph.D., flavor and data manager, AFB International, shares findings from a study to investigate sensory perception changes that occur at different ages, assessing how these factors influence food preferences, focusing mainly on the aging cat. Her research highlights vital factors influencing flavor preference, including texture and aroma, which are particularly important for aging cats with diminished senses. This research aims to improve cats’ acceptance and consumption of targeted foods in critical periods of life, ultimately supporting their health and well-being.
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