Effect of Biolactin administered per os on survivability and body weight of piglets

Abstract

Abstract Prolactin (PRL) is a protein hormone synthesized in and secreted predominantly by lactotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland. This hormone has been found to stimulate the immune system in animals. Because prolactin secreted in milk by the mother’s body is often insufficient, the administration of exogenous prolactin may significantly contribute to improving the health and growth of piglets. The aim of the study was to determine the dose of prolactin administered to newborn piglets to improve their survivability and growth rate. The study used Biolactin solution, produced on a semi-technical scale by FZNP Biochefa, which was administered per os to newborn piglets at a dose of 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mg PRL/kg body weight. NaCl physiological saline was used as a control. The number of piglets born alive, piglet body weight and mortality from birth to 21 and 28 days of age (weaning) were monitored. The study involved 98 litters (1197 piglets), which were divided into 3 experimental and 3 control groups. The experiment showed a positive effect of exogenous prolactin administered to newborn piglets on reducing their mortality and on increasing their birth to weaning growth rate. A dose of 0.5 mg PRL/kg body weight turned out to be optimal.