What question did this study set out to answer?

To evaluate the impact of monensin on the composition of fermentation end-product acids in vitro and in vivo in cattle.

Effect of Monensin on Rumen Fermentation in Vitro and in Vivo

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Controlled animal trial demonstrates increased propionic acid production with monensin in cattle, suggesting improved digestive energy efficiency.

To evaluate the impact of monensin on the composition of fermentation end-product acids in vitro and in vivo in cattle.
Tested 1 ppm monensin across three in vitro ruminal fermentation systems using a concentrate substrate.
Evaluated monensin in vivo using both concentrate-fed and pasture-fed fistulated cattle.
Administered 100 and 500 mg monensin/head/day to non-fistulated cattle over a 148-day feeding trial.
In vitro, 1 ppm monensin increased propionic acid by 50% and decreased acetic and butyric acids, with negligible effect on total acid production.
In non-fistulated cattle, 100 and 500 mg monensin/head/day increased the molar proportion of ruminal propionic acid from 31.9% to 41.0% and 43.5%, respectively, while decreasing acetic and butyric acid proportions.
Total ruminal volatile acid concentration remained unchanged across conditions, and the shift in acid proportions persisted throughout the 148-day trial.

Richardson et al. (1976) studied this question.

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Controlled animal trial demonstrates increased propionic acid production with monensin in cattle, suggesting improved digestive energy efficiency.