Author
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Carroll, Jeffery - Jeff Carroll |
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Salfen, Brent |
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STRAUCH, TRISTA - UNIV OF MISSOURI |
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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Other Publication Acceptance Date: 8/4/2003 Publication Date: 8/4/2003 Citation: Carroll, J.A., Salfen, B.E., Strauch, T.A. 2003. Evaluation of the immunological, intake and growth responses in young pigs [abstract]. Annual Meeting of the Cooperative Western Regional Project W-173. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Research in the Animal Physiology Research Unit (USDA-ARS) is directed toward solving problems with mortality, morbidity, overall well-being, and performance in neonatal and weaned pigs. Work with piglets over the past year has been primarily in the areas of physiological responses to disease, effects of prenatal hormonal therapy on fetal and neonatal growth and physiology, and appetite regulation. Additionally, work has continued on the inclusion of dietary fish oil as a source of omega-3 fatty acid, and the use of spray-dried plasma as a means to provide immunological protection for the weaned pig. An understanding of the immunological and physiological responses associated with live bacterial challenges is necessary before novel approaches for preventing E. coli outbreaks in swine herds can be effectively implemented. Our continued work in the area of appetite regulation as it relates to the weaning process will be valuable in the search for methods which can be utilized to prevent weight loss associated with the naturally occurring feed deprivation during this period. Decreasing the time pigs go without feed during the postweaning period will enhance growth and performance, as well as reduce the incidence of early postweaning morbidity and mortality. Finally, our Ralgro work supports our theory that prenatal and perinatal treatments can be utilized to enhance pig productivity during the postnatal period. |
