Published online by Cambridge University Press: 20 November 2017
Lean tissue deposition occurs in ruminants fed at maintainance energy intake provided that sufficient protein is supplied in the diet (Fattet et al 1984). The effect may be at least partially regulated by the endocrine system as circulating levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1(IGF-1) are increased by the inclusion of high levels of protein in energy restricted diets (Kriel et al, 1992). The present study examines the extent to which IGF-1 and insulin concentrations are modulated by the inclusion of various amounts of rumen protected protein (Amino Green 98) in lambs restricted in metabolisable energy (ME) intake.