In-vitro evidence for plant enzyme mediated lipolysis in the rumen

It is generally accepted that microbial enzymes are involved in lipolysis and are thus responsible for
the destruction of plant membranes in the rumen. However, we question this assertion and tested the
hypothesis that in ruminants grazing fresh pastures, the first stages of lipolysis could be mediated by
plant lipases. These enzymes are ubiquitous in plants and their regulation might be altered as a
consequence of the dual stress of elevated temperature and anoxia imposed on the plant metabolism of
intact plant cells ingested by ruminants. If the hypothesis is proven, it might be possible to reduce the
rate and extent of lipolytic activity in the rumen by selectively breeding forage plants with reduced
lipolytic activity, with potential benefit to both the livestock producer and the consumer.