Plasma Of Piglets Research Articles

Maternal Supplementation Spermidine During Gestation Improves Placental Angiogenesis and Reproductive Performance of High Prolific Sows.

Spermidine (SPD) is a widely recognized polyamine compound found in mammalian cells and plays a key role in various cellular processes. We propose that SPD may enhance placental vascular development in pregnant sows, leading to increased birth weight of piglets. Six hundred and nine sows at 60 days of gestation were randomly assigned into a basal diet (CON group), basal diet supplemented 10 mg/kg of SPD (SPD1 group), and basal diet supplemented 20 mg/kg of SPD (SPD2 group), respectively. Compared with the CON, SPD1 significantly increased the average number of healthy piglets per litter and the placental efficiency (P < 0.05), while the average number of mummified fetus per litter and the percentage of weak piglets significantly decreased (P < 0.05). In the plasma metabolomics, SPD content in plasma of sows (P = 0.075) and umbilical cord plasma of piglets (P = 0.078) had an increasing trend in response to SPD1. Furthermore, SPD1 increased the expression of the vascular endothelial cell marker protein, platelet endothelial cell adhesionmolecule-1 (PECAM-1/CD31) and the density of placental stromal vessels (P < 0.05). Moreover, as compared to CON, SPD2 significantly decreased the average number of mummified fetus per litter (P < 0.05), while the placental efficiency and the expression of amino acid transporter solute carrier (SLC) family 7, member7 (SLC7A7) and glucose transporters SLC2A2) and SLC5A4 in placental tissue significantly increased (P < 0.05). These results suggest that maternal supplementation of SPD during pregnancy increased healthy litter number, and promoted placental tissue development. Our findings provide evidence that maternal SPD has the potential to improve the production performance of sows.

Elevated level of extracellular vimentin is associated with an increased fibrin formation potential in sepsis: ex vivo swine study

BackgroundSepsis can lead to coagulopathy and microvascular thrombosis. Prior studies, including ours, reported an increased level of extracellular vimentin in blood derived from septic patients. Moreover, we identified the contribution of extracellular vimentin to fibrin formation and to the fibrin clot structure ex vivo in plasma from septic patients. Here, we tested the status of plasma vimentin and its impact on fibrin clots using our recently described swine model of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) sepsis-induced coagulopathy.ResultsWe employed ELISA, size-exclusion chromatography, vimentin antibodies, confocal microscopy, and turbidity assays on piglet plasma obtained at pre- and post-MRSA inoculation. Plasma vimentin level at 70 h post-MRSA inoculation was on average twofold higher compared to pre-infection (0 h) level in the same animal. Anti-vimentin antibody effectively reduced fibrin formation ex vivo and increased porosity in the fibrin clot structure generated from septic piglet plasma. In contrast to plasma at 0 h, the size-exclusion chromatography revealed that phosphorylated vimentin was in-complex with fibrinogen in septic piglet plasma.ConclusionsThus, our swine model of sepsis-induced coagulopathy, reproduced increased extracellular circulating vimentin and subsequent potentiation of fibrin formation, often observed in septic patient. These outcomes validate the use of large animal models to investigate the dysregulated host immune response to infection leading to coagulopathy, and to develop new therapies for sepsis-induced disseminated microvascular thrombosis.

Long-Term Effect of Maternal Antioxidant Supplementation on the Lipid Profile of the Progeny According to the Sow's Parity Number.

Pig feeding prior to the extensive fattening phase might affect the final lipid profile and product quality. This study evaluates how maternal supplementation with vitamin E (VITE) (100 mg/kg), hydroxytyrosol (HXT) (1.5 mg/kg), or combined administration (VE + HXT) affects the piglet's plasma and tissues' fatty acid profiles and lipid stability according to the sow's parity number (PN), as well as the possible changes to the lipid profile after extensive feeding. The sows' PN affected the total fatty acid profile of plasma, muscle, and liver of piglets, with lower Δ-9 and Δ-6 desaturase indices but higher Δ-5 in those from primiparous (P) than multiparous (M) sows. Dietary VITE was more effective at decreasing C16:0 and saturated fatty acids in the muscle of piglets born from M than P sows, and modified the liver phospholipids in a different way. Sows' supplementation with HXT increased C18:2n-6 in triglycerides and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in muscle phospholipids. In the liver, HXT supplementation also increased free-PUFA and free-n-3 fatty acids. However, lipid oxidation of piglets' tissues was not affected by the antioxidant supplementation, and it was higher in the livers of piglets born from M sows. The fatty acid profile in the muscle of pigs after extensive feeding was not affected by the PN, but it was by the sows' antioxidant supplementation, with positive effects on quality by both compounds.

The effect of nettle extract on antioxidant defense system in piglets after weaning

Background. The effect of common nettle (Urtica dioica L.) extracts on the free radical processes and antioxidant system in piglets during the critical period of weaning from sows has been studied. Materials and Methods. Large white piglets were divided into 2 groups (control and experimental), 9 animals in each. Piglets of the experimental group from 14 days of age and before weaning received the standard diet and the nettle extract in the dose of 6 mg/kg of body weight for 22 days. The blood, as well as erythrocyte hemolysates and plasma of piglets obtained at 14, 36, and 42 days of age, were studied. Results. Our results have shown that weaning causes an oxidative stress in piglets. This state leads to an increase in the concentration of metabolites of free radical damage to protein molecules – carbonyl groups of proteins on the first day and primary products of lipid peroxidation on the seventh day after weaning. This activation of oxidative damage occurs in piglets against the background of a physiologically immature antioxidant system and is characterized by a decrease in the activity of the enzymatic chain – superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase, as well as the concentration of its non-enzymatic antioxidant – reduced glutathione. Feeding piglets with nettle extract leads to activation of the antioxidant defense system in erythrocytes (higher activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and an increased reduced glutathione level compared to the control values) and a decrease in the concentration of oxidative damage products in the plasma (the content of lipid hydroperoxides, TBA-active products and carbonyl groups of proteins). Conclusion. The positive effect of nettle extract on the inhibition of free radical processes and activation of antioxidant systems indicates that this extract can be added to the standard diet of young animals to increase stress resistance and adaptability of their organism in critical periods of ontogenesis.

Enhanced Antioxidative Capacity Transfer between Sow and Fetus via the Gut-Placenta Axis with Dietary Selenium Yeast and Glycerol Monolaurate Supplementation during Pregnancy.

This study aims to investigate the impact of dietary supplementation with selenium yeast (SeY) and glycerol monolaurate (GML) on the transfer of antioxidative capacity between the mother and fetus during pregnancy and its underlying mechanisms. A total of 160 sows with similar body weight and parity of 3-6 parity sows were randomly and uniformly allocated to four groups (n = 40) as follows: CON group, SeY group, GML group, and SG (SeY + GML) group. Animal feeding started from the 85th day of gestation and continued to the day of delivery. The supplementation of SeY and GML resulted in increased placental weight and reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in sow plasma, placental tissues, and piglet plasma. Furthermore, the redox balance and inflammatory markers exhibited significant improvements in the plasma of sows fed with either SeY or GML, as well as in their offspring. Moreover, the addition of SeY and GML activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway, while downregulating the expression of pro-inflammatory genes and proteins associated with inflammatory pathways (MAPK and NF-κB). Vascular angiogenesis and nutrient transportation (amino acids, fatty acids, and glucose) were upregulated, whereas apoptosis signaling pathways within the placenta were downregulated with the supplementation of SeY and GML. The integrity of the intestinal and placental barriers significantly improved, as indicated by the increased expression of ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1, along with reduced levels of DLA and DAO with dietary treatment. Moreover, supplementation of SeY and GML increased the abundance of Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, Clostridium_sensus_stricto_1, and Bacteroidota, while decreasing levels of gut microbiota metabolites LPS and trimethylamine N-oxide. Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant negative relationship between plasma LPS levels and placental weight, oxidative stress, and inflammation. In summary, dietary supplementation of SeY and GML enhanced the transfer of antioxidative capacity between maternal-fetal during pregnancy via gut-placenta axis through modulating sow microbiota composition.

An Intravenous Pharmacokinetic Study of Cannabidiol Solutions in Piglets through the Application of a Validated Ultra-High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for the Simultaneous Quantification of CBD and Its Carboxylated Metabolite in Plasma.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has multiple therapeutic benefits that need to be maximized by optimizing its bioavailability. Numerous formulations are therefore being developed and their pharmacokinetics need to be studied, requiring analytical methods and data from intravenous administration. As CBD is susceptible to hepatic metabolism, the requirement of any method is to quantify metabolites such as 7-COOH-CBD. We demonstrated that CBD and 7-COOH-CBD could be simultaneously and correctly quantified in piglet plasma by using an UHPLC-MS/MS technique. The validated method allowed for an accurate bioanalysis of an intravenously injected solution consisting of CBD-HPβCD complexes. The experimental pharmacokinetic profile of CBD showed multi-exponential decay characterized by a fast apparent distribution half-life (0.25 h) and an elimination half-life of two hours. The profile of 7-COOH-CBD was not linked with the first-pass metabolism, since 80% of the maximum metabolite concentration was reached at the first sampling time point, without any decrease during the period of study. A two-compartment model was optimal to describe the experimental CBD profile. This model allowed us to calculate macro-micro constants and volumes of distribution (Vss = 3260.35 ± 2286.66 mL) and clearance (1514.5 ± 261.16 mL·h-1), showing that CBD is rapidly distributed to peripheral tissues once injected and slowly released into the bloodstream.

Dose-response of inactivated yeast in diets of late gestating and lactating gilts on immunoglobulin transfer and offspring preweaning growth performance.

Fifty gilts (initial body weight [BW] 190.7 ± 4.2kg) were recruited on day 85 of gestation and were used until day 19 of lactation to assess the dose-response of inactivated yeast via hydrolyzation (HY) inclusion on offspring growth and immunoglobulin (Ig) transfer prior to weaning. Gilts were assigned to one of the 5 experimental diets: a control with no HY (HY0) or inclusion of 0.25% (HY0.25), 0.5% (HY0.5), 1.0% (HY1.0), or 1.2% (HY1.2) HY. Gilts were weighed on days 85 and 110 of gestation and days 1 and 19 (weaning) after farrowing. Offspring were weighed on days 1 and 19 of age. On lactation day 1 (approximately 24h after farrowing), colostrum, gilt plasma, and plasma from 2 median BW piglets were collected and on day 19, plasma from each gilt and 2 median BW piglets per litter were collected for determination of Ig concentrations. Contrast statements were used to assess the linear, quadratic, cubic, and quartic effects of HY inclusion. The inclusion of HY had minimal effects on gilt BW or litter characteristics at birth (total number born and born alive, piglet birth weight). Lactation average daily feed intake of the gilts tended to increase then decrease with increasing HY inclusion (quadratic; P = 0.085). Piglet preweaning average daily gain (linear, quadratic, and quartic; P < 0.05) and BW at weaning (quadratic and quartic; P < 0.05) increased then decreased with increasing HY inclusion. On lactation day 1, colostrum and gilt plasma Ig concentrations were not affected by dietary treatment (P > 0.10) but piglet IgA and IgM decreased then increased with HY inclusion level (cubic; P < 0.05). On lactation day 19, piglet plasma IgG tended to increase with HY inclusion (linear; P = 0.099). In summary, increasing HY inclusion in late gestating and lactating gilt diets improved immune transfer in the first 24h after birth and piglet preweaning growth rates and BW at weaning. Therefore, maternal feeding of HY could be used as a strategy to improve offspring immunocompetence and BW at weaning, with possible carryover benefits for the postweaning phase.

Effect of Low Protein Diets Supplemented with Sodium Butyrate, Medium-Chain Fatty Acids, or n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on the Growth Performance, Immune Function, and Microbiome of Weaned Piglets.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of low-protein (LP) diets supplemented with sodium butyrate (SB), medium-chain fatty acids (MCT), or n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) on the growth performance, immune function, and the microbiome of weaned piglets. A total of 120 healthy weaned piglets ((Landrace × Large White × Duroc); 7.93 ± 0.7 kg initial body weight), were randomly divided into five groups. Each group consisted of six replications with four piglets per replication. Dietary treatments included control diet (CON); LP diet (LP); LP + 0.2% SB diet (LP + SB); LP + 0.2% MCT diet (LP + MCT); and LP + PUFA diet (LP + PUFA). The experimental period lasted for 4 weeks. Compared with the CON diet, LP, LP + SB, LP + MCT, and LP + PUFA diets decreased the final weight and average daily gain (ADG) of piglets (p < 0.05). There were lower (p < 0.05) concentrations of IL-8 and higher (p < 0.05) Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in the plasma of piglets fed with LP + SB, LP + MCT, and LP + PUFA diets than those fed with the LP diet. The piglets in the LP + SB and LP + PUFA groups had lower IKK-alpha (IKKa) mRNA expression in the colonic mucosa compared with those in the CON and LP groups (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of TLR4 in the colonic mucosa of piglets in the LP + SB, LP + MCT, and LP + PUFA groups was decreased when compared with the CON and LP groups (p < 0.05). The LP + MCT diets increased the gene expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the colonic mucosa of piglets compared with CON, LP, and LP + SB diets (p < 0.05). The abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae in the colonic microbiome of piglets in the LP group was higher than that in the other four groups (p < 0.05). Collectively, this study showed that LP diets supplemented with SB, MCT, or n-3 PUFA reduced plasma inflammatory factor levels, increased plasma GSH-Px activity, and declined mRNA expression of TLR4 and IKKa in the colonic epithelium, whereas it reduced the abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae in the colon of piglets.

Effects of sources and routes of administration of vitamins A, D and copper on postnatal status of these micronutrients in piglets.

Twenty-six nulliparous sows were fed conventional gestation and lactation diets supplemented (N = 13) or not (N = 13) with extra daily supplements of 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol (25-OH-D3; 4 ĸIU), β-carotene (24 ĸIU), and copper (Cu)-proteinate (45 mg) from day 90 of gestation to 21 d of lactation (L21). In each litter, 10 piglets were divided into 5 pairs received, at 2 (L2) and 8 d (L8) of age, one of the five combinations of micronutrient sources and routes of administration (N = 260 piglets total). These neonatal treatments (N = 26 pairs or 52 piglets each) consisted of oral vitamin D3, retinol acetate and CuSO4 (T1); oral 25-OH-D3, β-carotene, and Cu proteinate (T2); exposure to ultraviolet light (UVB), oral retinol palmitate and Cu gluconate (T3); intramuscular vitamin D3 and retinyl propionate and oral Cu acetate (T4); oral saline (CTRL). Oral or intramuscular provisions corresponded to 12 mg of Cu and 70 and 12 ĸIU of vitamins A and D, respectively. Blood samples were collected from all piglets at L2, L8, and L21 for determination of serum Cu, retinol, and 25-OH-D3. Body weight was measured at birth, L2, L8, and L21. Piglets were weaned at L21, and liver and blood samples were collected 2 d later to evaluate oxidative enzymes in blood and liver and hepatic ATP concentrations and expression of genes associated with antioxidant status. Sow treatments had marginal or no impacts on Cu, retinol, 25-OH-D3, or antioxidant status in piglet blood serum and liver. However, when supplements were given to piglets, hepatic Cu was 38% greater in for all treated piglets compared to CTRL (P < 0.01), hepatic retinol was 3 times higher in T1 than in CTRL (P < 0.01) and intermediate for other treatments whereas serum 25-OH-D3 was markedly increased with T2 and T3 at L8 and L21, respectively, compared to CTRL (Piglet treatment × Age interaction, P < 0.01). Concerning antioxidant activities, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase were increased (P < 0.03) in plasma of T2 piglets whereas the highest values (P < 0.03) for indicators of oxidative damage to proteins were observed in T4 piglets. The study revealed that oral Cu proteinate from T2, oral retinol acetate from T1, oral 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol from T2, and UVB light exposure from T3 were the most efficient ways of increasing the postnatal status of these micronutrients in suckling piglets and this may have some impacts on their peri-weaning antioxidant status.

The influence of iron and germanium nanocompounds on the content of ceruloplasmin in the blood of sows and piglets obtained from them

The work is devoted to establishing the degree and nature of the effect of the application of iron and germanium nano compounds on the content of ceruloplasmin in the blood plasma of sows and piglets obtained from them. For this, two groups of sows (control and experimental) were selected; the pigs of the experimental group were given a complex of nano compounds of trace elements iron and germanium, and the ceruloplasmin content in the blood was evaluated. A reliable effect of the application of iron and germanium nanocompounds on the content of ceruloplasmin in the blood of sows was established – F = 25.5 &gt; FU = 4.15; P &lt; 0.001, which is manifested only after farrowing – gh²ᵪ = 0.48–0.74 (P ≤ 0.05–0.01). Thus, after farrowing (on the first and third day), the content of the enzyme in the blood of these animals was significantly higher than that of sows of the control group (12.7–13.5 %; P ≤ 0.05). It was established that the ceruloplasmin content in the blood of piglets obtained from sows that were given the mentioned metal nanocompounds on the second (gh²ᵪ = 0.52; P ≤ 0.05) and seventh (gh²ᵪ = 0.70; P ≤ 0.01) days of life of animals depends on the application of iron and germanium nanocompounds. In these piglets, the enzyme content two and seven days after birth is 13.3–20.0 % (P ≤ 0.05) higher than piglets obtained from sows that were not given nanocompounds. It was experimentally proven that the content of ceruloplasmin in the blood plasma of piglets obtained from sows that were given nano compounds of metals is directly related to its content in the blood of sows, in particular, the content of the enzyme in the blood of two- and 7-day-old piglets correlates with the content of the enzyme in the blood of sows on the day of farrowing – r = 0.91–0.95 (P ≤ 0.001). Therefore, the conducted studies indicate the effectiveness of using ferrum and germanium nanoparticles to correct the ceruloplasmin content in the blood of both sows and suckling piglets.

Maternal Selenium-Enriched Yeast Supplementation in Sows Enhances Offspring Growth and Antioxidant Status through the Nrf2/Keap1 Pathway.

This study evaluated the effects of maternal selenium-enriched yeast (SeY) supplementation during late gestation and lactation on sow performance, transfer of selenium (Se) and redox status, and gut microbiota community, as well as on the gut health of offspring. Seventy pregnant sows on day 85 of gestation were randomly allocated to the following two treatments: (1) sows who were fed a basal diet (basal diet contained 0.3 mg/kg Se as Na2SeO3, n = 35); (2) and sows who were fed a SeY-supplemented diet (basal diet with 0.2 mg/kg Se as SeY, n = 35). The offspring piglets were only cross-fostered within the group on day 3 of lactation (L3) according to the pig farm epidemic prevention policy. The plasma, milk, and feces samples from 10 sows, as well as plasma and intestinal samples per treatment, were collected on L1 and L21, respectively. Our results showed that maternal SeY supplementation increased the first week average weight and ADG of piglets (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON group, the SeY supplementation increased the Se content in the plasma and milk of sows and the plasma of piglets on L1 and L21 (p < 0.05). In addition, in sows, the levels of fat in the milk on L21, the level of IgA, T-AOC, and GSH-Px in the plasma on L21, and the level of T-AOC and GSH-Px in the colostrum were increased, while the MDA content was decreased in the plasma on L1 and in the colostrum and milk on L14 (p < 0.05). In the piglet plasma, the levels of IgA on L1 and L21, GSH-Px on L1, and GSH on L21 were increased, while the MDA content was decreased on L1 (p < 0.05). Maternal SeY supplementation up-regulated the small intestinal protein abundances of MUC1, E-cadherin, ZO-1, occludin, and claudin and activated the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway in weaned offspring piglets. The 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that fecal microbiota had distinct separations during lactation, and the relative abundances of unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae, Prevotaceae_UCG-001, and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group were increased on L1. Collectively, the current findings suggest that maternal SeY supplementation during late gestation and lactation could improve the piglet's growth performance, Se status, antioxidant capacity and immunoglobulins transfer at the first week of lactation, as well as alter the fecal microbiota composition by increasing antioxidative-related and SCFA-producing microbiota in sows. These changes contributed to enhancing the small intestinal barrier function and activating the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway in offspring.

106 Using Postbiotic Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Yeast in Gestation and Lactation Diets of Gilts to Improve Immunoglobulin Transfer and Offspring Growth Pre-Weaning

Abstract Gilts [n = 50; initial body weight (BW) 190.7 ± 4.2 kg] were used to determine the optional inclusion level of postbiotic Saccharomyces cerevisiae in late gestation and lactation diets to improve immunoglobulin transfer and piglet growth performance during the suckling period. Gilts were assigned to one of five (n = 10) diets: standard gestation and lactation diets (Y0) or diets with postbiotic yeast included at either 0.25% (Y0.25), 0.5% (Y0.5), 1.0% (Y1), or 1.2% (Y1.2). Diets were fed from d 85 of gestation until weaning (d 21 after farrowing). During gestation gilts were fed 2.6kg/d and feed was offered ad libitum during lactation. Gilt BW was recorded on d 85 and 110 of gestation, and gilt and piglet BW were recorded on d 1 and 21 of lactation. Twenty-four hours after farrowing, plasma was collected from each gilt and two median BW piglets per litter via orbital sinus. Additionally, 50 mL of colostrum was collected in equal parts from all functional teats on the right side. On d 21, plasma samples were collected from each gilt and two median BW piglets per litter. Concentrations of immunoglobulin (Ig) A, G, and M were quantified in plasma and colostrum. Data were analyzed in SAS with treatment as the main effect. Linear, quadratic, and yeast vs. no yeast contrast statements were used to assess responses to dietary inclusion of yeast. Time (minutes) between farrowing (defined as birth of the first piglet, confirmed by video recording) and sampling was used as a covariate for d 1 Ig concentrations. There were no differences in number of piglets born alive (12.5 ± 0.9), birth weight (1.40 ± 0.45kg), or gilt BW change during lactation (-7.98 ± 6.68kg). Lactation average daily feed intake tended to be 14.6% greater for gilts provided yeast versus no yeast (5.11 vs. 4.46 ± 0.31kg, respectively; P = 0.069). At weaning, offspring from Y0.25 fed gilts had greater BW than piglets from Y0- or Y1.2-fed gilts (6.48 vs. 5.66 and 5.82 kg ± 0.16, respectively; P &amp;lt; 0.001), with all other treatments intermediate. On d 1, colostrum and gilt plasma Ig concentrations were unaffected by diets. However, yeast increased piglet plasma concentrations of IgM (linear; P = 0.034) and tended to increase IgA (linear; P=0.093), and total Ig (linear; P = 0.074). On d 21, gilts fed yeast-containing diets tended to have greater plasma IgA (yeast vs. no yeast and quadratic; P = 0.063 and P = 0.076, respectively), but IgM was greater for gilts fed Y0 (yeast vs. no yeast; P &amp;lt; 0.05). On d 21, piglet plasma IgA tended to be greater when gilts were provided yeast-containing diets (yeast vs. no yeast; P = 0.069). Therefore, postbiotic Saccharomyces cerevisiae was effective in improving maternal transfer, with piglet IgA and IgM concentrations increasing linearly with increasing yeast inclusion, while Y0.25 also improved piglet growth performance during the suckling phase.

Protective effects and mechanisms of N-acetylcysteine on indomethacin-induced intestinal injury in a porcine model

This study aimed to investigate the effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on indomethacin (IDMT)-induced intestinal injury in a piglet model and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Piglets were randomly divided into 3 treatment groups: (1) control group; (2) IDMT group; (3) NAC+IDMT group. The results showed that NAC administration significantly increased the average daily gain of piglets, attenuated the intestine hyperemia, and restored normal jejunal morphology. Further studies indicated that NAC administration significantly increased plasma citrulline concentration and jejunal villin expression, but decreased the content of proinflammatory cytokines in plasma and jejunum of IDMT-stimulated piglets. NAC administration selectively decreased the proportion of eosinophils but not neutrophils in plasma. Furthermore, NAC administration significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in plasma but decreased the concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (plasma) and malondialdehyde (plasma and jejunum), as well as the activity of myeloperoxidase (jejunum) when comparing NAC+IDMT group with IDMT group. Gene Ontology analysis showed that the significantly enriched molecular function term was “ubiquitin-like protein ligase binding” for NAC+IDMT versus IDMT differentially regulated genes. In the biological process category, differentially regulated genes of NAC+IDMT versus IDMT were mainly enriched in immune-related terms. The major enrichments for differentially regulated proteins (DRPs) of NAC+IDMT versus IDMT were terms involved in lipid metabolism and immune response. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that “arginine biosynthesis” was a significant enrichment term for the DRPs of NAC+IDMT versus IDMT. Further studies demonstrated that NAC administration up-regulated argininosuccinate synthase 1 mRNA expression and down-regulated arginase mRNA expression in the jejunum of IDMT-stimulated piglets. Moreover, the content of nitric oxide was restored to a normal level with the reduction of nitric oxide synthase activity. NAC administration ameliorated intestinal injury in IDMT-challenged piglets by enhancing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions and modulating arginine metabolism in the small intestine.

Dietary embelin supplementation during mid-to-late gestation improves performance and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism of pigs.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary embelin supplementation during late gestation (from days 60 to 110) on performance and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism of pigs. Sixty sows (Duroc × Yorkshire × Landrace; parity = 1.68 ± 0.03; N = 20) were randomly divided into three gestation (day 60 of pregnancy) treatments, Control pigs (CON) were fed a basal diet, and the other animals were fed a basal diet supplemented with 200 or 600 mg/kg embelin per kg of feed. The body weight, backfat thickness and litter size of the sows, and birth weight and mortality of piglets were recorded. Sows' blood and piglets' umbilical cord blood were collected for the measurements of hematological parameters and anti-oxidative and immune indexes, and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism parameters, respectively. The colostrum and milk and fecal samples of the sows were also collected for analysis of milk composition and apparent total tract nutrient digestibility. Dietary embelin had no effect on the BW and backfat thickness of the sows but significantly increased the birth weight of piglets (P < 0.05) and decreased the mortality (P < 0.05). Moreover, the white blood cell counts (day 90), neutrophil count and mean cell hemoglobin (day 110), total anti-oxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) content of the sows were increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the embelin groups than that in the CON group, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was decreased (P < 0.05). Embelin significantly increased immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) content in plasma of piglets as well as those in colostrum and milk of sows than the CON treatment (P < 0.05). In addition, dry matter, ash, and ether extract in the colostrum were similar between groups (P > 0.05), whereas the embelin significantly increased the crude protein in the milk. The apparent total tract nutrient digestibility was similar between treatments (P > 0.05). The embelin treatment significantly increased the glucose levels and lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB) activity in sows plasma, and decreased the lactate levels in both sows and fetuses plasma (P < 0.05). Collectively, this study indicates that sows fed with embelin in mid-to-late gestation showed improved maternal health and anti-oxidative status, milk protein content, and maternal-fetal glucose metabolism, showing promise in natural plant extract nutrition for sows.

Effect of Fermented Rapeseed Meal in Diets for Piglets on Blood Biochemical Parameters and the Microbial Composition of the Feed and Faeces.

The study assessed the influence of rapeseed meal (RSM) fermented using Bacillus subtilis 87Y on the feed microbiota, intestinal microbiota, blood biochemical parameters, and content of minerals in the blood plasma and faeces of piglets. Modulation of the microbial composition of feed containing fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) and of the faeces of pigs consuming it was observed. There was a significant increase in the number of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and a decrease in the total number of coliforms and Clostridium perfringens in the faeces of animals from the experimental groups. FRSM in the diet of piglets was shown to improve the mineral balance by increasing the levels of P, Ca, and Mg in the blood plasma and reducing their amount in the faeces. A beneficial effect on parameters of protein and lipid metabolism was also noted, resulting in an increase in the levels of total protein (TP) and albumins (ALB) and a reduction in triacylglycerols (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood plasma of the piglets. The research results indicate that the presence of FRSM in the diet of weaners can be a preventive factor in intestinal dysbiosis and support the maintenance of homeostasis.

Targeting the innate repair receptor axis via erythropoietin or pyroglutamate helix B surface peptide attenuates hemolytic-uremic syndrome in mice.

Hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) can occur as a systemic complication of infections with Shiga toxin (Stx)-producing Escherichia coli and is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and acute kidney injury. Hitherto, therapy has been limited to organ-supportive strategies. Erythropoietin (EPO) stimulates erythropoiesis and is approved for the treatment of certain forms of anemia, but not for HUS-associated hemolytic anemia. EPO and its non-hematopoietic analog pyroglutamate helix B surface peptide (pHBSP) have been shown to mediate tissue protection via an innate repair receptor (IRR) that is pharmacologically distinct from the erythropoiesis-mediating receptor (EPO-R). Here, we investigated the changes in endogenous EPO levels in patients with HUS and in piglets and mice subjected to preclinical HUS models. We found that endogenous EPO was elevated in plasma of humans, piglets, and mice with HUS, regardless of species and degree of anemia, suggesting that EPO signaling plays a role in HUS pathology. Therefore, we aimed to examine the therapeutic potential of EPO and pHBSP in mice with Stx-induced HUS. Administration of EPO or pHBSP improved 7-day survival and attenuated renal oxidative stress but did not significantly reduce renal dysfunction and injury in the employed model. pHBSP, but not EPO, attenuated renal nitrosative stress and reduced tubular dedifferentiation. In conclusion, targeting the EPO-R/IRR axis reduced mortality and renal oxidative stress in murine HUS without occurrence of thromboembolic complications or other adverse side effects. We therefore suggest that repurposing EPO for the treatment of patients with hemolytic anemia in HUS should be systematically investigated in future clinical trials.

Alterations in Essential Fatty Acids, Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM), and Enteric Methane Emission in Primiparous Sows Fed Hemp Seed Oil and Their Offspring Response.

This study shows the effects of dietary hemp seed oil on the milk composition, blood immunoglobulins (Ig), and enteric methane (E-CH4) production of primiparous sows, and their offspring's response at three time points. A bifactorial experiment was conducted for 21 days (d) on 18 primiparous sows (195 ± 3 days old). The sows were fed two diets: (i) a control diet (SO) based on soybean oil (1.6%), with an 18.82 n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ratio; (ii) an experimental diet (HO) based on hemp seed oil (1.6%), with a 9.14 n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio. The milk contained an elevated level of linoleic acids (LA), n-3 FA, and especially alpha-linolenic acids (ALA), while the n-6:n-3 ratio declined using hemp oil. The Ig concentration was higher in colostrum than in milk. In the first few hours, the IgG in the plasma of piglets was more than double that of maternal plasma IgG (+2.39 times). A period effect (p &lt; 0.0001) for IgG concentration in the plasma of piglets was recorded (40% at 10 d, respectively 73% lower at 21 d than 12 h after parturition). However, the sow diet did not affect Ig (p &gt; 0.05). The frequency of diarrhoea declined after about 7 d. The value of the rate of diarrhoea was 6.2% lower in the PHO group. We found a 4.5% decline in E-CH4 in the HO group. Applying multiple linear regression, feed intake, n-6:n-3 ratio, ALA, and lean meat were potential indicators in estimating E-CH4. In conclusion, sow dietary hemp seed oil increased lean meat %, milk EFA, and milk IgM. Significant changes in the other dependent variables of interest (body weight, plasma Igs in sows and offspring, E-CH4 production) were not recorded. There was reduced diarrhoea which shows that EFA could play a therapeutic role in the incidence of diarrhoea and in lowering of E-CH4 emission in sows and progeny. All dependent variables were significantly altered at different time points, except for fat concentration in milk and sow plasma IgG.

Effect of maternal dietary starch-to-fat ratio and daily energy intake during late pregnancy on the performance and lipid metabolism of primiparous sows and newborn piglets.

The present study evaluated the effects of maternal dietary energy intake and starch-to-fat ratio during late gestation on the performance and lipid metabolism of sows and their offspring. On day 84 of gestation, 80 Landrace × Yorkshire primiparous sows were assigned to 2×2 factorial arrangements according to body weight following a randomized complete block design. The factors were daily energy intake (8,375 kcal ME/d [CE] vs. 9,600 kcal ME/d [HE]) and dietary starch-to-fat ratio (10:1 [CR] vs. 15:1 [HR]). All sows were fed one of four diets from day 85 of gestation until farrowing. Data were analyzed using the GLM procedure in SPSS. High energy intake increased the body weight of sows on day 110 of gestation (P = 0.031) as well as the weight of piglets at birth (P = 0.018). Increased energy intake elevated the plasma triglyceride concentrations in sows (P = 0.027) and piglets (P = 0.044). Maternal high energy intake altered the liver metabolome of newborn piglets in terms of metabolites related to carbohydrate and linoleic acid metabolism. Moreover, maternal high energy intake increased hepatic total cholesterol (P = 0.023) and triglyceride (P = 0.026) concentration in newborn piglets. Furthermore, maternal high energy intake significantly increased the transcript abundance of fatty acid synthase (FAS; P = 0.001) and protein abundance of phosphorylated protein kinase B (P =0.001) in the liver of newborn piglets. A high starch-to-fat ratio reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration in the plasma of sows (P = 0.044) and newborn piglets (P = 0.048) as well as in the liver of newborn piglets (P = 0.015). Furthermore, maternal high starch-to-fat ratio increased the transcript abundances of FAS (P = 0.004) in newborn piglets. In conclusion, high daily energy intake of sows increased the birth weight of newborn piglets. Moreover, maternal high daily energy intake and high dietary starch-to-fat ratio improved the lipid metabolism of newborn piglets.

PK-PD Modeling and Optimal Dosing Regimen of Acetylkitasamycin against Streptococcus suis in Piglets.

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) causes severe respiratory diseases in pigs and is also an important pathogen causing hidden dangers to public health and safety. Acetylkitasamycin is a new macrolide agent that has shown good activity to Gram-positive cocci such as Streptococcus. The purpose of this study was to perform pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) modeling to formulate a dosing regimen of acetylkitasamycin for treatment of S. suis and to decrease the emergence of acetylkitasamycin-resistant S. suis. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 110 S. suis isolates was determined by broth micro dilution method. The MIC50 of the 55 sensitive S. suis isolates was 1.21 μg/mL. The strain HB1607 with MIC close to MIC50 and high pathogenicity was used for the PK-PD experiments. The MIC and MBC of HB1607 in both MH broth and pulmonary epithelial lining fluid (PELF) was 1 and 2 μg/mL, respectively. The liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was used to determine the concentration change of acetylkitasamycin in piglet plasma and PELF after intragastric administration of a single dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. acetylkitasamycin. The PK parameters were calculated by WinNolin software. The PK data showed that the maximum concentration (Cmax), peak time (Tmax), and area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) were 9.84 ± 0.39 μg/mL, 4.27 ± 0.19 h and 248.58 ± 21.17 h·μg/mL, respectively. Integration of the in vivo PK data and ex vivo PD data, an inhibition sigmoid Emax equation was established. The dosing regimen of acetylkitasamycin for the treatment S. suis infection established as 33.12 mg/kg b.w. every 12 h for 3 days. This study provided a reasonable dosing regimen for a new drug used in clinical treatment, which can effectively be used to treat S. suis infection and slow down the generation of drug resistance.

Evaluation of post-colostrum ingestion changes in the protein composition of peripheral blood of newborn piglets: A pilot study.

Putatively, colostral proteins are partly absorbed and transferred to blood circulation in newborn piglets, which suggests that colostrum ingestion alters the protein composition of their blood. Here, we conducted a pilot study to estimate the changes in the protein composition of piglet blood. Plasma collected from piglets pre- and post-ingestion of colostrum (PreC and PostC) was analyzed by shotgun proteomics. Proteins in colostrum were also analyzed. We identified 393 and 427 proteins in PreC and PostC plasma, respectively, and 596 colostral proteins. Whereas 202 unique proteins were identified in PostC, PreC and PostC commonly shared 225 proteins. By contrast, when compared with PreC, 54 proteins in PostC had their emPAI values increased >2-fold. Notably, using plasma samples collected from a separate experiment, the concentrations of growth differentiation factor 8 and haptoglobin were higher in PostC than in PreC, which was validated by ELISA. Approximately 60% of the uniquely identified or highly concentrated proteins in PostC were also found in colostrum, which were likely, at least partly, transferred from colostrum. The present study demonstrated that the protein composition of plasma of newborn piglets drastically changed post-colostrum ingestion, partly due to transfer of colostral proteins.