Oxidative stress status of highly prolific sows during gestation and lactation

Evaluating the Impact of an Organic Trace Mineral mix on the Redox Homeostasis, Immunity, and Performance of Sows and their Offspring

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of trace mineral supplementation in sows during gestation and lactation on the performance and health status of sows and their offspring. Sows (n = 30; Landrace × Yorkshire; avg parity = 3.9) were randomly allocated into two dietary treatments. Sows received a basal diet supplemented with 12 mg/kg Cu, 30 mg/kg Fe, 90 mg/kg Zn, 70 mg/kg Mn, 0.30 mg/kg Se, and 1.5 mg/kg I from an inorganic trace mineral source (ITM) or a blend of hydroxychloride and organic trace mineral source (HOTM) from day 1 of gestation until the end of the lactation period at day 21. Compared to the ITM, the HOTM supplementation increased (P < 0.05) both litter birth weight and individual piglet birth weight. Although not statistically significant, HOTM tended to increase (P = 0.069) the level of lactose in colostrum. HOTM increased (P < 0.05) the concentration of Mn and Se in the colostrum, milk, and serum of sows and/or piglets. Notably, the Zn concentration in the serum of sows was higher in sows supplemented with ITM compared to HOTM. Moreover, HOTM increased (P < 0.05) the activities of GPX and SOD in gestating sows and piglets, as well as increased (P < 0.05) cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10) in the serum of sows. The immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM) also increased in sows and/or piglets at certain experimental time points. In conclusion, HOTM supplementation positively affected piglet development and improved the health status of sows and piglets potentially by regulating redox homeostasis and immunity.

Impacts of Maternal Nutrition on Sow Performance and Potential Positive Effects on Piglet Performance

The objectives of this review are to identify the nutritional challenges faced by modern sows and present potential solutions to mitigate excessive maternal tissue loss and reproductive failure as it relates to recent genetic improvements. Current feeding programs have limitations to support the rapid genetic improvements in reproductive performance for modern sows. Since 2012, both litter size at birth and fetal weight have increased by 2.26 pigs per litter and 0.22 kg per piglet, respectively, thereby increasing the nutrient needs for sows during gestation and lactation. Prediction models generated in this review predict that modern sows would need 31% more lysine during gestation when compared with current feeding programs. Physiological challenges facing modern sows are also addressed in this review. High oxidative stress, pelvic organ prolapse, and lameness can directly affect the sow, whereas these physiological challenges can have negative impacts on colostrum and milk quality. In response, there is growing interest in investigating the functional roles of select bioactive compounds as feed additives to mitigate the severity of these challenges. Selenium sources, catechins, and select plant extracts have been utilized to reduce oxidative stress, calcium chloride and phytase have been used to mitigate pelvic organ prolapse and lameness, algae and yeast derivatives have been used to improve colostrum and milk quality, and fiber sources and probiotics have been commonly utilized to improve sow intestinal health. Collectively, this review demonstrates the unique challenges associated with managing the feeding programs for modern sows and the opportunities for revision of the amino acid requirements as well as the use of select bioactive compounds to improve reproductive performance.

Allicin in pregnancy diets modulates steroid metabolism in pregnant sows and placental sulphate metabolism promoting placental angiogenesis and foetal development

The low-birth-weight of piglets is an important factor affecting pig enterprises. The placenta, as a key organ for material exchange between mother and foetus, directly influences the growth and development of the foetus. Allicin exhibits various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may also play a crucial role in enhancing sow reproductive performance and placental angiogenesis. In this study, we used 70 lactating Landrace × Yorkshire binary heterozygous sows to explore the effect of allicin on the reproductive performance of sows and placental development. The sows were randomly assigned into the Allicin group (Allicin), which was fed with a diet containing 0.25% allicin, and the negative control group, which was fed with basal feed. The experimental period lasted for 114 d from the date of mating to the end of farrowing. The results showed that the addition of allicin to the gestation diets increased the number of total born piglets, born alive piglets, and high-birth-weight piglets, reduced peripartum oxidative stress, alleviated dysregulation of glucose-lipid metabolism in sows, and increased the levels of antioxidant markers in the placenta. Differential analysis of metabolites in maternal plasma and placenta samples by non-targeted metabolomics revealed that allicin improved cholesterol metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, and increased plasma progesterone levels in sows. Allicin promoted sulphur metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism in placental samples and increased the hydrogen sulphide (H2S) content in the placenta. In addition, Quantitative Real-time PCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence results showed that allicin upregulated the expression of angiogenesis-related genes, VEGF-A, FLK 1 and Ang 1, in the placenta, implying that it promoted placental angiogenesis. These results indicate that supplementing the diet of pregnant sows with allicin reduces oxidative stress, alleviates dysregulation of glucose-lipid metabolism during the periparturient period, and promotes placental angiogenesis and foetal development by increasing plasma progesterone level and placental H2S content.

Maternal intervention with a combination of galacto-oligosaccharides and hyocholic acids during late gestation and lactation increased the reproductive performance, colostrum composition, antioxidant and altered intestinal microflora in sows

Introduction

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) and hyocholic acids (HCA) during late gestation and lactation on reproductive performance, colostrum quality, antioxidant capacity and gut microbiota in multiparous sows.

Methods

A total of 60 healthy multiparous cross-bred sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) were randomly fed 4 groups diets as follows: the basal diets (CTRL group), or the basal diets containing only 600 mg/kg GOS (GOS group), 600 mg/kg GOS + 100 mg/kg HCA (GOS + Low HCA group), and 600 mg/kg + 200 mg/kg HCA (GOS + High HCA group) from d 85 of gestation to weaning. Multiple parameters of sows were determined.

Results

There was a trend of shortening the labor process of sows (p = 0.07) in the GOS group and GOS + Low/High HCA group. Compared with the CTRL group, the GOS + Low/High HCA group increased the average piglets weight at birth (p < 0.05), and increased the IgA concentration of colostrum (p < 0.05). In addition, serum triglyceride (TG) concentration was lower (p < 0.05), and serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) was higher (p < 0.05) in the GOS and GOS + Low/High HCA groups than in the CTRL group at farrowing. Serum catalase (CAT) activities was higher in the GOS and GOS + High HCA groups than in the CTRL group at farrowing. The 16S rRNA analysis showed that GOS combination with high-dose HCA shaped the composition of gut microbiota in different reproductive stages (d 107 of gestation, G107; d 0 of lactation, L0; d 7 of lactation, L7). At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidota and Desulfobacterota in G107, Bacteroidota, and Proteobacteria in L0, and Planctomycetota in L7 was increased in GOS + High HCA group (p < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that Streptococcus was positively correlated with the serum TG but negatively correlated with the average piglets weight at birth (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This investigation demonstrated that the administration of galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) in conjunction with hyocholic acids (HCA), to sows with nutrient restrictions during late gestation and lactation, further improved their antioxidant capacity and milk quality. The observed beneficial effects of GOS + HCA supplementation could potentially be linked to an improvement in gut microbiota disorders of the sows.

Effect of Composite Probiotics on Antioxidant Capacity, Gut Barrier Functions, and Fecal Microbiome of Weaned Piglets and Sows

This study investigated the efficacy of a composite probiotics composed of lactobacillus plantarum, lactobacillus reuteri, and bifidobacterium longum in alleviating oxidative stress in weaned piglets and pregnant sows. Evaluations of growth, oxidative stress, inflammation, intestinal barrier, and fecal microbiota were conducted. Results showed that the composite probiotic significantly promoted average daily gain in piglets (p < 0.05). It effectively attenuated inflammatory responses (p < 0.05) and oxidative stress (p < 0.05) while enhancing intestinal barrier function in piglets (p < 0.01). Fecal microbiota analysis revealed an increase in the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as faecalibacterium, parabacteroides, clostridium, blautia, and phascolarctobacterium in piglet feces and lactobacillus, parabacteroides, fibrobacter, and phascolarctobacterium in sow feces, with a decrease in harmful bacteria such as bacteroides and desulfovibrio in sow feces upon probiotic supplementation. Correlation analysis indicated significant negative associations of blautia with inflammation and oxidative stress in piglet feces, while treponema and coprococcus showed significant positive associations. In sow feces, lactobacillus, prevotella, treponema, and CF231 exhibited significant negative associations, while turicibacter showed a significant positive association. Therefore, the composite probiotic alleviated oxidative stress in weaned piglets and pregnant sows by modulating fecal microbiota composition.

Maternal supplementation with konjac glucomannan improves maternal microbiota for healthier offspring during lactation

BACKGROUND

The maternal diet during gestation and lactation affects the health of the offspring. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) is a significantly functional polysaccharide in food research, possessing both antioxidant and prebiotic properties. However, the mechanisms of how KGM regulates maternal nutrition remain insufficient and limited. This study aimed to investigate maternal supplementation with KGM during late gestation and lactation to benefit both maternal and offspring generations.

RESULTS

Our findings indicate that KGM improves serum low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, the KGM group displayed a significant increase in the feed intake-related hormones neuropeptide tyrosine (NPY), Ghrelin, and adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase (AMPK) levels. KGM modified the relative abundance of Clostridium, Candidatus Saccharimonas, unclassified Firmicutes, and unclassified Christensenellaceae in sow feces. Acetate, valerate, and isobutyrate were also improved in the feces of sows in the KGM group. These are potential target bacterial genera that may modulate the host's health. Furthermore, Spearman's correlation analysis unveiled significant correlations between the altered bacteria genus and feed intake-related hormones. More importantly, KGM reduced interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in milk, further improved IL-10 levels, and reduced zonulin levels in the serum of offspring.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, maternal dietary supplementation with KGM during late gestation and lactation improves maternal nutritional status by modifying maternal microbial and increasing lactation feed intake, which benefits the anti-inflammatory capacity of the offspring serum. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Maternal folic acid and vitamin B12 supplementation during medium to late gestation promotes fetal development via improving placental antioxidant capacity, angiogenesis and amino acid transport

BACKGROUND

Folic acid and vitamin B12 (FV), being B vitamins, not only facilitate the remethylation of homocysteine (Hcy) but also contribute to embryonic development. This study aimed to assess the impact of FV supplementation during late pregnancy on sows' reproductive performance, amino acid metabolism, placental angiogenesis, and related parameters. Twenty primiparous sows at day 60 of gestation were randomly allocated to two groups: a basal diet (CON) group and a group receiving a basal diet supplemented with folic acid at 20 ppm and vitamin B12 at 125 ppb.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that dietary FV supplementation significantly reduced the incidence of intrauterine growth retardation compared to the CON group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, it led to a decrease in the Hcy levels in umbilical cord serum (P < 0.05) and activation of the placental mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway (P < 0.05). Additionally, FV supplementation lowered placental malondialdehyde levels (P < 0.05) and increased the expression of placental thioredoxin (P = 0.05). Moreover, maternal FV supplementation notably elevated placental vascular density (P < 0.05) and the expression of sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 2 (SNAT2) (P < 0.05), as well as amino acid concentrations in umbilical cord blood (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Maternal FV supplementation during medium to late gestation reduced Hcy levels in umbilical cord blood and positively impacted fetal development. This improvement was closely associated with increased placental antioxidant capacity and vascular density, as well as activation of the placental mTORC1-SNAT2 signaling pathway. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of Supplementation with Oregano Essential Oil during Late Gestation and Lactation on Serum Metabolites, Antioxidant Capacity and Fecal Microbiota of Sows

A total of 20 healthy white × landrace sows were evenly and randomly divided into two groups, and fed basal diets unsupplemented or supplemented with 500 g/t Meriden-Stim® from day 100 of gestation until day 21 of lactation. Serum and fecal samples were collected from the sows on the final day for subsequent analysis. Compared to the control group, there were no significant differences in the sows' performances; however, an increase was observed in the piglets' weight at weaning (p = 0.08). Moreover, oregano essential oil (OEO) significantly reduced the levels of urea (UREA) (p < 0.01), total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.05), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) (p < 0.05) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p < 0.05) in serum. In terms of antioxidant indexes in serum, the catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) levels showed significant increases (p < 0.05) while the malondialdehyde (MDA) level exhibited a decrease tendency (p = 0.09). 16S rRNA analysis identified the specific bacteria taxa in feces. OEO significantly decreased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria at the phylum level (p < 0.05). At the genus level, OEO significantly increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Prevotellaceae UCG 003 and UCG 005, while decreasing that of Escherichia-Shigella (p < 0.05). Taken together, OEO supplementation in maternal diets during late gestation and lactation improved serum metabolites, antioxidant capacity and regulated the intestinal-flora balance of sows, thereby tending to increase the piglets' weight at weaning.

Maternal Malic Acid May Ameliorate Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Sows through Modulating Gut Microbiota and Host Metabolic Profiles during Late Pregnancy

Sows suffer oxidative stress and inflammation induced by metabolic burden during late pregnancy, which negatively regulates reproductive and lactating performances. We previously found that L-malic acid (MA) alleviated oxidative stress and inflammation and improved reproductive performances in sows. However, the mechanism underlying the MA's positive effects remains unexplored. Here, twenty Large White × Landrace sows with similar parity were randomly divided into two groups and fed with a basal diet or a diet supplemented with 2% L-malic acid complex from day 85 of gestation to delivery. The gut microbiome, fecal short-chain fatty acids, and untargeted serum metabolome were determined. Results showed that Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Spirochaetota were the top abundant phyla identified in late pregnancy for sows. Maternal MA supplementation modulated the composition but not the richness and diversity of gut microbiota during late pregnancy. Correlation analysis between gut microbiota and antioxidant capacity (or inflammation indicators) revealed that unclassified_f_Ruminococcaceae, unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae, UCG-002, norank_f_norank_o_RF3, and Lactobacillus might play a role in anti-oxidation, and Lachnospiraceae_XPB1014_group, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, UCG-002, unclassified_f_Ruminococcaceae, Candidatus_Soleaferrea, norank_f_UCG-010, norank_f_norank_o_RF39, and unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae might be involved in the anti-inflammatory effect. The improved antioxidant and inflammation status induced by MA might be independent of short chain fatty acid changes. In addition, untargeted metabolomics analysis exhibited different metabolic landscapes of sows in the MA group from in the control group and revealed the contribution of modified amino acid and lipid metabolism to the improved antioxidant capacity and inflammation status. Notably, correlation results of gut microbiota and serum metabolites, as well as serum metabolites and antioxidant capacity (or inflammation indicators), demonstrated that differential metabolism was highly related to the fecal microorganisms and antioxidant or inflammation indicators. Collectively, these data demonstrated that a maternal dietary supply of MA can ameliorate oxidative stress and inflammation in sows through modulating gut microbiota and host metabolic profiles during late pregnancy.

Effects of Nesting Material Provision and High-Dose Vitamin C Supplementation during the Peripartum Period on Prepartum Nest-Building Behavior, Farrowing Process, Oxidative Stress Status, Cortisol Levels, and Preovulatory Follicle Development in Hyperprolific Sows

Hyperprolific sows often experience increased oxidative stress during late gestation and lactation periods, which can adversely affect the farrowing process and overall lactation performance. This study examines the influence of providing a coconut coir mat (CCM; 1 × 1 m) as nesting material, supplementing high-dose vit-C (HVC; 20% vit-C, 10 g/kg feed) as an antioxidant, or both on maternal behavior, the farrowing process, oxidative status, cortisol levels, and preovulatory follicle developments in sows with large litters. In total, 35 sows (Landrace × Yorkshire; litter size 15.43 ± 0.27) were allocated to the following four treatment groups: control (n = 9, basal diet), vit-C (n = 8, basal diet + HVC), mat (n = 10, basal diet + CCM), and mat + vit-C (n = 8, basal diet + HVC + CCM). A post-hoc analysis showed that compared with sows that were not provided CCM, mat and mat + vit-C groups demonstrated increased durations of nest-building behavior during the period from 24 h to 12 h before parturition (p < 0.05 for both), reduced farrowing durations, and decreased intervals from birth to first udder contact (p < 0.01 for both). The mat group exhibited lower advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP) levels during late gestation and lactation periods than the control group (p < 0.05). Sows with HVC supplementation showed longer farrowing durations than those without HVC supplementation (p < 0.0001). The vit-C group had higher salivary cortisol levels on day 1 after farrowing than the other treatment groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the follicle diameters on day 3 after weaning in the vit-C group tended to be smaller than those in the control group (p = 0.077). HVC supplementation prolonged farrowing and increased the physiological stress on postpartum, and no advantageous effects on maternal behavior and developmental progression of preovulatory follicles were observed. Hence, alternative solutions beyond nutritional approaches are required to address increased oxidative stress in hyperprolific sows and secure their welfare and reproductive performance. The present results substantiated the positive impact of providing CCM as nesting material for sows with large litters on nest-building behavior and the farrowing process, which could mitigate the deleterious consequences induced by peripartum physiological and oxidative stress.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Stimbiotics to Sows on Lactation Performance, Immune Function, and Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Capacities during Late Gestation and Lactation

Stimbiotic supplementation may provide an innovative feed additive solution to accelerate the proliferation of beneficial fiber-degrading bacteria in the distal intestine and the utilization of dietary fiber. Optimal utilization of dietary fiber has multiple benefits for gut health and nutrient utilization. This study was conducted to evaluate the late gestation and lactation performance, the plasma, colostrum, and milk immunoglobulin (IgA, IgG, and IgM) concentrations, and the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant biomarkers in plasma of sows fed with or without a stimbiotic during the late gestation and lactation phase. A total of 40 sows were allocated to two treatment groups: control (CT) with no supplementation or 100 mg/kg stimbiotic (VP), with 20 sows per treatment. Sows were fed the treatment diets from d 85 of gestation to d 28 of lactation. In the results, the average daily weight gain of piglets during lactation was greater from sows fed in the VP group compared to that in the CT group (p < 0.05). The plasma concentrations of IgM at farrowing and IgG at weaning of the sows fed the diet with the stimbiotic supplementation were much higher than those in the CT sows (p < 0.05), respectively. In addition, the dietary stimbiotic increased the concentrations of IgM in the colostrum and of IgA and IgM in the milk at d 14 of lactation (p < 0.05). Plasma concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) on d 0 and d 28 of lactation tended to be lower in sows fed the VP diets compared with those of the sows fed the CT diets. Thus, our study indicated that stimbiotic supplementation could improve the daily weight gain of piglets and the immune function of sows in lactation.

Accurate models and nutritional strategies for specific oxidative stress factors: Does the dose matter in swine production?

Oxidative stress has been associated with a number of physiological problems in swine, including reduced production efficiency. Recently, although there has been increased research into regulatory mechanisms and antioxidant strategies in relation to oxidative stress-induced pig production, it remains so far largely unsuccessful to develop accurate models and nutritional strategies for specific oxidative stress factors. Here, we discuss the dose and dose intensity of the causes of oxidative stress involving physiological, environmental and dietary factors, recent research models and the antioxidant strategies to provide theoretical guidance for future oxidative stress research in swine.

Organic selenium and vitamin E for gilts and sows bred in equatorial climate

The aim of this study was to evaluate the dietary supplementation of organic selenium (Se) and vitamin E for sows from 1st and 2nd parity order, without adiabatic cooling on physiological parameters, reproductive performance, milk composition, litter performance and blood concentrations of antioxidant enzymes. A total of 96 sows were allotted in a 4 × 2 completely factorial design, with 4 experimental groups and 2 parity orders (1st and 2nd). The experimental groups consisted of: ACCon-sows receiving adiabatic cooling and no dietary supplementation of organic Se and vitamin E; WACCon-sows without adiabatic cooling and no dietary supplementation of organic Se and vitamin E; WACSe-sows without adiabatic cooling with dietary supplementation of 0.3 mg/kg organic Se; WACSeE-sows without adiabatic cooling with dietary supplementation of 0.3 mg/kg organic Se and 90 UI of vitamin E. ACCon Sows had lower respiratory rate, rectal temperature and body surface temperature when compared to the others sows (p < 0.05). Sows without evaporative cooling had lower daily milk production and weaned litters with lower weight and average daily gain when compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). ACCon sows presented higher weaned piglets to WACSeE sows. WACSeE Sows had higher concentrations of GSH-Px when compared to other experimental groups and higher levels of SOD than sows from ACCon and WACSe. Piglets of sows from WACSeE group presented higher levels of GSH-Px and SOD when compared to the other experimental groups. ACCon sows have higher milk yield and higher litter weight than others groups. Under equatorial climate conditions, dietary supplementation of organic Se and vitamin E from first and second parity order sows does not respond efficiently on thermoregulatory physiology and performance compared to adiabatic cooling, but modulates the enzymatic antioxidant balance of sows and piglets.

Validation of assays for measurement of oxidant compounds in saliva of pigs: Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), carbonyl, and reactive oxygen species (ROS)

Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), carbonyls and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are oxidant compounds that can provide useful information on the oxidative status. Pigs can be affected by oxidative stress in different situations including physiological conditions such as lactation and also in different diseases, and the measurement of these three analytes in saliva could be potentially useful as biomarkers of the redox status in this species. Assays for the measurement of TBARS and carbonyls by spectrophotometry and ROS by luminol-based chemiluminescence in pigs' saliva were analytically validated and were applied in saliva of pigs after an in vitro incubation with different doses of ascorbic acid (AA). All the assays showed a satisfactory analytical precision and accuracy. The 240 h-incubation of saliva samples with 60 mM of AA induced to an increased TBARS and carbonyls production. TBARS, carbonyls and ROS can be estimated in saliva of pigs by the assays validated in this report. In addition, these assays can detect changes in the concentration of these analytes associated to incubation of saliva samples with AA.

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.

The protective role of maternal genetic immunization on maternal-fetal health and welfare

Pregnancy is a critical period associated with alterations in physiologic, biologic, and immunologic processes, which can affect maternal-fetal health through development of several infectious diseases. At birth, neonates have an immature immune system that makes them more susceptible to severe viral infections and diseases. For this reason, different maternal nutritional and immunization interventions have been used to improve the immune and health status of the mother and her neonate through passive immunity. Here, we reviewed the protective role of maternal immunization with different types of vaccines, especially genetic vaccines, during pregnancy in maternal-fetal health, immune response, colostrum quality, immune response, and anti-oxidative status. For this purpose, we have used different scientific databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) and other official web pages. We customized the search period range from the year 2000 to 2023 using the key words "maternal immunization" OR "gestation period/pregnancy" OR "genetic vaccination" OR "maternal-fetal health" OR "micronutrients" OR "neonatal immunity" "oxidative stress" OR "colostrum quality". The evidence demonstrated that inactivated or killed vaccines produced significant immune protection in the mother and fetus. Furthermore, most recent studies have suggested that the use of genetic vaccines (mRNA and DNA) during pregnancy is efficient at triggering the immune response in mother and neonate without the risk of undesired pregnancy outcomes. However, factors such as maternal redox balance, nutritional status, and the timing of immunization play essential roles in regulating immune response inflammatory status, antioxidant capacity, and the welfare of both the pregnant mother and her newborn.

Effects of dietary fiber in gestating sow diets - A review

The objective of this review was to provide an overview of the effects of dietary fiber (DF) on reproductive performance in gestating sows. Dietary fibers have been suggested to modulate microbiota in the intestine and the immune system of gestating sows and to improve gut health. Thus, DF may help alleviate the adverse effects of the stressful production cycle of gestating sows. These benefits may subsequently result in improved reproductive performance of sows. Previous studies have reported changes in microbiota by providing gestating sows with DF, and the responses of microbiota varied depending on the source of DF. The responses by providing DF to gestating sows were inconsistent for antioxidative capacity, hormonal response, and inflammatory response among the studies. The effects of DF on reproductive performance were also inconsistent among the previous studies. Potential reasons contributing to these inconsistent results would include variability in reproductive performance data, insufficient replication, influence of other nutrients contained in the DF diets, characteristics of DF, and experimental periods. The present meta-analysis suggests that increasing the total DF concentration by 10 percentage units (e.g., 12% to 22% as-fed basis) in gestating sow diets compared to the control group improves the litter born alive by 0.49 pigs per litter. However, based on the present review, questions remain regarding the benefits of fibers in gestating sow diets. Further research is warranted to clarify the mode of action of fibers and the association with subsequent reproductive performance in gestating sows.

The Effect of Maternal Probiotic or Synbiotic Supplementation on Sow and Offspring Gastrointestinal Microbiota, Health, and Performance

The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens has prompted the reduction in antibiotic and antimicrobial use in commercial pig production. This has led to increased research efforts to identify alternative dietary interventions to support the health and development of the pig. The crucial role of the GIT microbiota in animal health and performance is becoming increasingly evident. Hence, promoting an improved GIT microbiota, particularly the pioneer microbiota in the young pig, is a fundamental focus. Recent research has indicated that the sow's GIT microbiota is a significant contributor to the development of the offspring's microbiota. Thus, dietary manipulation of the sow's microbiota with probiotics or synbiotics, before farrowing and during lactation, is a compelling area of exploration. This review aims to identify the potential health benefits of maternal probiotic or synbiotic supplementation to both the sow and her offspring and to explore their possible modes of action. Finally, the results of maternal sow probiotic and synbiotic supplementation studies are collated and summarized. Maternal probiotic or synbiotic supplementation offers an effective strategy to modulate the sow's microbiota and thereby enhance the formation of a health-promoting pioneer microbiota in the offspring. In addition, this strategy can potentially reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the sow and her offspring, enhance the immune potential of the milk, the immune system development in the offspring, and the sow's feed intake during lactation. Although many studies have used probiotics in the maternal sow diet, the most effective probiotic or probiotic blends remain unclear. To this extent, further direct comparative investigations using different probiotics are warranted to advance the current understanding in this area. Moreover, the number of investigations supplementing synbiotics in the maternal sow diet is limited and is an area where further exploration is warranted.

Dietary supplementation of laminarin improves the reproductive performance of sows and the growth of suckling piglets

BACKGROUND

Maternal nutrition is essential in keeping a highly efficient production system in the pig industry. Laminarin has been shown to improve antioxidant capacity, reduce the inflammatory response, and favor the homeostasis of intestinal microbiota. However, the effect of dietary supplementation of laminarin on the reproductive performance of sows and the growth of suckling offspring remains unknown.

METHODS

A total of 40 Landrace × Yorkshire multiparous sows on d 85 of gestation, similar in age, body weight (BW), parity and reproductive performance, were randomly divided into four dietary treatments with 10 sows per treatment, receiving a control diet (basal pregnancy or lactating diets) and a basal diet supplemented with 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.10% laminarin, respectively. The experiment lasted from d 85 of gestation to d 21 of lactation.

RESULTS

Laminarin supplementation linearly increased number born alive per litter (P = 0.03), average daily feed intake (ADFI, P < 0.01), and total milk yield of sows during the lactation of 1-21 d (P = 0.02). Furthermore, maternal laminarin supplementation increased the average daily gain (ADG) of piglets while tending to reduce the culling and death rate before weaning. In addition, alterations to the composition of colostrum and milk, as well as to serum inflammatory cytokines and immunoglobulins of sows were observed. The fecal microbiota profile of sows supported the improvement of reproductive performance in sows and the growth performance in suckling offspring.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary supplementation of laminarin during late pregnancy and lactation could significantly improve reproductive performance of sows and growth performance of piglets.

Large litter size increases oxidative stress and adversely affects nest-building behavior and litter characteristics in primiparous sows

The study examined 24 primiparous sows (Landrace × Large white) and their offspring, which were grouped based on litter size: NORMAL (n = 8, average litter size 11.5 ± 1.2), with litter size between 7 and 14, and LARGE (n = 16, average litter size 15.9 ± 1.0), with litter size between 15 and 20. Sows were group-housed during gestation, and housed in an adjustable loose housing system (2.4 × 2.3 m) during farrowing and lactation. All the sows were confined in the farrowing crates (0.6 × 2.3 m) for 7 days after the onset of parturition. Saliva samples of sows were collected on days 35, 21, and 7 before farrowing (D-35, D-21 and D7, respectively), and on days 1, 7, and 28 after farrowing (D1, D7, and D28, respectively) to measure the levels of Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Colostrum samples were collected for oxytocin and prolactin assays. Nest-building behavior (NB) for 24 h before parturition and farrowing was observed through video analysis. The results showed that LARGE sows had higher levels of H2O2 on D1 and D7 and AOPP during late gestation (p < 0.05, for all) and lower TEAC levels during late gestation and on D7 and D28 after farrowing (p < 0.05, for all) than NORMAL sows. Additionally, LARGE sows tended to have higher levels of TNF-α on D1 and D7 (p < 0.10, for both). LARGE sows showed shorter duration and lower frequency of NB during 24-12 h before parturition (p < 0.05, for both), and tended to have lower prolactin levels (p = 0.10). Furthermore, large sows tended to show longer farrowing duration and higher stillbirth rate (p = 0.06, p = 0.07, respectively). In conclusion, this study confirmed that large litter size may increase oxidative stress in sows during late gestation and lactation. The data also suggested that this could adversely impact prolactin release, leading to reduced NB.

Different Effect of Vitamin E or Hydroxytyrosol Supplementation to Sow's Diet on Oxidative Status and Performances of Weaned Piglets

Different feeding strategies are being applied to sows in order to obtain homogeneous piglets' weights and improved health status. This study evaluated how the dietary supplementation of vitamin E (VE) (100 mg/kg), hydroxytyrosol (HXT) (1.5 mg/kg) or the combined administration (VE + HXT) given to Iberian sows from day 85 of gestation affected the growth pattern of the piglets and their oxidative status; and quantified what these effects were due to. Dietary VE and HXT improved the oxidative status of sows and piglets. Both VE and HXT modified the growth pattern at birth and performances of the piglets in a different way according to the growing period. Piglets' performances were positively correlated with plasma VE and negatively with plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) of the sow. However, the highest variation in growth patterns was explained by the colostrum composition. Significant linear equations were observed between piglets' performances and colostrum saturated (SAT), n-7 monounsaturated fatty acids (C16:1n-7 and C18:1n-7) and different desaturases indices. This study would confirm that VE supplementation to the sow diet could be more adequate than HXT for the improved development during the first weeks of a piglet's life. The combined administration of both antioxidants would not produce additional positive effects compared to the individual supplementation.

Dietary Supplementation with Different Types of Potassium and Magnesium during Late Gestation and Lactation Modulates the Reproductive Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immune Function of Sows

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with different types of potassium and magnesium on the reproductive performance, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of sows. Forty-five Landrace × Yorkshire sows at the late gestation stage (85 d) were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 15). Sows in the control group (CON), potassium chloride and magnesium sulfate group (PM), and potassium-magnesium sulfate group (PMS) were fed with a basal diet, a basal diet supplemented with magnesium sulfate (0.20%) and potassium chloride (0.15%), or a basal diet supplemented with potassium-magnesium sulfate (0.45%), respectively. The results showed that dietary supplementation with PMS did not yield significant effects on the reproductive performance compared with the CON group (p > 0.05). However, it significantly elevated the level of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in plasma and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in colostrum (p < 0.05). Furthermore, PMS significantly augmented the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) while reducing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in comparison to the CON group (p < 0.05). Compared with the PM group, the PMS group significantly reduced the incidence rate of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (p < 0.05) and significantly decreased the concentration of the proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α) level in plasma (p < 0.05). These results indicated that dietary supplementation with PMS during late gestation could enhance sows' antioxidant capacity and the IgA level in colostrum. These findings will provide a theoretical reference for the use of magnesium and potassium in sow production to improve sows' health.

Managing prolific sows in tropical environments

Litter size in modern sows has been dramatically improved in recent decades by genetic selection for highly prolific sows. In a tropical environment, the average total number of pigs born and number born alive are reported to be as high as 17.2 and 15.1 piglets per litter, respectively. Therefore, the new production target in many herds aims to achieve 30-40 pigs weaned per sow per year. Despite the improvements in litter size, the mean preweaning piglet mortality rate remains high, at between 10% and 20%, in major pig-producing countries. A sufficient daily feed intake by lactating sows is important for high milk production as sow milk yield is the limiting factor for piglet growth rate. Heat stress, which can occur when the ambient temperatures rise above 25°C, is one of the major problems that decreases daily feed intake and compromises milk yield. Therefore, it is necessary to encourage high feed intakes to achieve high milk yields. However, even with high nutrient intakes, productivity can be constrained by intestinal barrier function, limiting digestive ability, and allowing potential pathogens and/or toxins to become systemic. This is more likely greater under tropical conditions because of heat stress, exacerbating sow fertility problems. Underpinning sow herd performance, including responses to environmental challenges, is the selection of appropriate gilts, for example, selection and management for early puberty, thus presumably selecting the more fertile gilts and the correct management of lactation to improve the number of weaned piglets are some of the key factors for future reproductive efficiency of the farm under tropical conditions.

Maternal Vitamin D and Inulin Supplementation in Oxidized Oil Diet Improves Growth Performance and Hepatic Innate Immunity in Offspring Mice

Dietary oxidized fat contains harmful materials such as hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde (MDA). Excessive oxidized fat intake during pregnancy and lactation not only leads to maternal body injury but also damages offspring health. Our previous study demonstrated that vitamin D (VD) had antioxidative capability in sows. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of maternal VD and inulin supplementation in oxidized oil diet on the growth performance and oxidative stress of their offspring. Sixty 5-month-old C57BL/6N female mice were randomly divided into five groups: Control group (basal diet, n = 12), OF group (oxidized-soybean-oil-replaced diet, n = 12), OFV group (oxidized-soybean-oil-replaced diet + 7000 IU/kg VD, n = 12), OFI group (oxidized-soybean-oil-replaced diet + 5% inulin, n = 12) and OFVI group (oxidized-soybean-oil-replaced diet + 7000 IU/kg VD + 5% inulin, n = 12). Mice were fed with the respective diet during pregnancy and lactation. The offspring were then slaughtered on day 21 of age at weaning. Results showed that a maternal oxidized oil diet impaired body weight and liver weight gain of offspring during lactation compared to the control group, while maternal VD, inulin or VD and inulin mixture supplementation reversed this effect. In addition, the activity of T-AOC in the liver of offspring was lower in the OF group than that in the control group, but could be restored by maternal VD and inulin mixture supplementation. Furthermore, the gene expression of both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as Il-6, Tnfα and Il-10, in offspring liver were downregulated by a maternal oxidized oil diet compared with the control group, but they were restored by maternal VD or VD and inulin mixture supplementation. The expressions of Vdr and Cyp27a1 were decreased by a maternal oxidized oil diet compared with the control group, while they could be increased by VD or VD and inulin mixture supplementation. Conclusion: maternal oxidized oil diet intake could impair the growth performance by inducing oxidative stress, but this can be relieved by maternal VD and inulin supplementation.

Genotoxic effects of caffeine in female mice exposed during pregnancy and lactation period and their offspring

Caffeine is a widely consumed substance, and there is a discussion about its effects when ingested by women during pregnancy and lactation. We aimed to identify the genotoxic effects of caffeine in female mice that consumed it during pregnancy and lactation periods and its consequences in their offspring. Thirty-six couples of Swiss mice received water or caffeine (0.3 and 1.0 mg/mL) treatment during pregnancy and lactation. The male and female offspring were divided into 12 groups according to the treatment administered to the female mice. Genotoxicity was assessed using the comet assay and the micronucleus test. Both doses of caffeine showed genotoxic effects in pregnant and lactating mice groups compared to groups not administered caffeine. In relation to offspring, it can be observed that females and males of the offspring had low weight in early life. In both female and male offspring, genotoxicity was detected in the blood, liver, and kidney tissues. Thus, from the present study, we can suggest that the caffeine consumed by female mice during the periods of pregnancy and lactation led to genotoxic effects in their offspring.

Placental Malfunction, Fetal Survival and Development Caused by Sow Metabolic Disorder: The Impact of Maternal Oxidative Stress

The energy and metabolic state of sows will alter considerably over different phases of gestation. Maternal metabolism increases dramatically, particularly in late pregnancy. This is accompanied by the development of an increase in oxidative stress, which has a considerable negative effect on the maternal and the placenta. As the only link between the maternal and the fetus, the placenta is critical for the maternal to deliver nutrients to the fetus and for the fetus' survival and development. This review aimed to clarify the changes in energy and metabolism in sows during different pregnancy periods, as well as the impact of maternal oxidative stress on the placenta, which affects the fetus' survival and development.

Taurine alleviates oxidative stress in porcine mammary epithelial cells by stimulating the Nrf2‐MAPK signaling pathway

The high incidence of oxidative stress in sows during late gestation and lactation affects mammary gland health, milk yield, and milk quality. Recently, we found that supplementing maternal diets with 1% taurine improved antioxidant capability and enhanced growth performance in offspring; however, the mechanisms underlying these are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the cytoprotective effects and the mechanism of taurine in mitigating oxidative stress in porcine mammary epithelial cells (PMECs). PMECs were pretreated with 0-2.0 mM taurine for 12 h and then subjected to oxidative injury with 500 μM hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Pretreatment with taurine attenuated decreased cell viability, enhanced superoxide dismutase, and reduced the intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation after H₂O₂ exposure. Taurine also prevented H₂O₂-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) was essential to the cytoprotective effects of taurine on PMECs, as Nrf2 knockdown significantly inhibited taurine-induced cytoprotection against oxidative stress. Moreover, we confirmed that Nrf2 induction by taurine was mediated through the inactivation of the p38/MAPK pathway. Overall, taurine supplementation has beneficial effects on redox balance regulation and may protect against oxidative stress in lactating animals.

Influence of fiber type and carbohydrase supplementation on nutrient digestibility, energy and nitrogen balance, and physiology of sows at mid and late gestation

Carbohydrase supplementation in grow-finish pig diets improves energy, nutrient digestibility, and gastrointestinal function, but their efficacy in gestation diets is understudied. The experimental objective was to evaluate the efficacy of a multicarbohydrase to improve digestion, energetics, and various physiological functions in gestating sows fed soluble and insoluble fiber diets. On day 28 of gestation, 36 sows (186 ± 4.6 kg body weight), blocked by parity, were randomly assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of dietary treatments (n = 9). Factors included fiber type of insoluble (IF; 20% dried distiller grains with solubles) or soluble fiber (SF; 20% sugar beet pulp) and with (+) or without (-) enzyme (0.05%, Rovabio Advance P10; Adisseo, Antony, France). Diets were fed from days 28 to 109 of gestation at a feeding level of 2.1 kg (SID-Lys 11 g/d and 4.5 net energy-Mcal/d). Two separate 9-d metabolism periods were conducted on days 50 to 59 (mid) and 99 to 108 (late) of gestation. During each period, days 1 to 3 served as an adaptation period, days 4 to 7 total urine and feces were collected (96-h) and followed by a 48-h lactulose-mannitol study. Serum and plasma were collected on days 50 and 99. Data were analyzed as repeated records using a linear mixed model with block as a random effect and fiber type, enzyme, and period and their interactions as fixed effects. Sows fed SF+ had increased serum IL-1ra (Fiber × Enzyme P = 0.035), and IL-2 (Fiber × Enzyme P = 0.042). In the presence of IF, multicarbohydrases increased serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, but not when supplemented with SF (Fiber × Enzyme P = 0.028). Circulating IL-8 and TNF-α were decreased in sows fed multicarbohydrases (P < 0.05). Multicarbohydrase supplementation increased the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy (GE), dry matter, and neutral detergent fiber by 2.8%, 3.4%, and 8.3%, respectively (P < 0.05). Compared to IF-, the ATTD of hemicellulose was 5.3% greater in sows fed IF+ but did not differ from SF- and SF+ (Fiber × Enzyme P = 0.037). Sows fed IF+ had the greatest ATTD of insoluble dietary fiber (Fiber × Enzyme P = 0.011). Sows fed multicarbohydrases excreted less energy in their urine (519 vs. 469 GE kcal/d; Enzyme P = 0.033) and in their feces (985 vs. 900 GE kcal/d; Enzyme P = 0.003). This resulted in an improvement in both digestible energy (Enzyme P < 0.01) and metabolizable energy (Enzyme P = 0.041), irrespective of fiber type. In conclusion, multicarbohydrase supplementation increased the digestibility and energetic contribution of fiber, irrespective of adaptation time or fiber type, but modulation of inflammatory responses was unique to dietary fiber type.

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 omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on oxidative stress parameters and sex hormone levels of modern genotype sows

BACKGROUND

Sows are exposed to severe stress and hormonal challenges during their whole productive life. As polyunsaturated fatty acids play an important role in immune and reproductive functions, with a better understanding of their role in breeding sows' nutrition, improved performance and more sustainable pig production can be achieved.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we investigated the effects of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the antioxidant status and hormone levels of sows.

METHODS

A total of 48 Danish Large white × Danish Landrace sows were supplemented either with sunflower oil (SO) as a control group or with fish oil (FO) as experimental group at the same dose of 10 g/kg feed. Blood samples were collected on day 14 of lactation, 5 days after weaning (insemination), and 30 days after insemination. To estimate antioxidant and reproductive effects, the amounts of reduced glutathione (GSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), serum 17β oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and 6-keto prostaglandin F1α (6-keto PGF1α) levels were investigated.

RESULTS

FO-based supplementation increased GPx activity on day 14 of lactation. Five days after weaning, the concentration of GSH in FO-fed sows was significantly higher than that in SO-fed sows. The E2 content of blood was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group for two of the three examined periods (day 14 of lactation and 30 days after insemination), whereas P4 levels were significantly higher in the experimental group 5 days after weaning. We found that 6-keto PGF1α levels were systematically lower in the experimental group throughout the trial.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence of the major impact of omega-6 and -3 fatty acids on the tested hormone levels, which serve as precursors for the production of E2 and P4 but have an opposite effect on PGF2α production.

Daidzein supplementation improved fecundity in sows via modulation of ovarian oxidative stress and inflammation

Adequate ovarian hormones secretion is essential for pregnancy success. Oxidative damage and following inflammation can destroy the ovarian normal function in mammals. Daidzein (DAI) is a classical isoflavonic phytoestrogen with specific oestrogenic activity. This study aimed to explore the effects of daidzein supplementation on fertility and ovarian characteristics of sows through biochemical analysis and RNA-seq technology. Twelve multiparous Yorkshire × Landrace sows were randomly divided into CON and DAI groups. We found that DAI increased total number of embryos as well as P4 and E2 levels of serum. DAI not only elevated the activities of T-AOC and GSH-Px, but also tended to decrease the content of MDA and IL-6 in the serum. In ovary, RNA-Seq identified 237 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and GO analysis showed that these DEGs were linked to functions associated with immune dysfunction. Moreover, STRING analysis demonstrated that most interacting nodes were TLR-4, LCP2, and CD86. Furthermore, DAI decreased the content of MDA, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, and increased the activities of T-AOC and CAT in ovarian tissue. Interestingly, a partial mantel correlation showed that T-AOC was the strongest correlation between the ovarian dataset and selected DEGs. Additionally, DAI supplementation not only increased the protein expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1, but also decreased the protein expressions of TLR-4, p-NFκB, p-AKT, and p-IκBα. Altogether, our results indicated that DAI could ameliorate ovarian oxidative stress and inflammation in sows, which might be mediated by suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

Maternal catalase supplementation regulates fatty acid metabolism and antioxidant ability of lactating sows and their offspring

Introduction and methods

As a crucial antioxidant enzyme, catalase (CAT) could destroy the cellular hydrogen peroxide to mitigate oxidative stress. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of maternal CAT supplementation from late gestation to day 14 of lactation on antioxidant ability and fatty acids metabolism with regard to the sow-piglet-axis. On day 95 of gestation, forty sows were divided into control (CON) group (fed a basal diet) and CAT group (fed a basal diet supplemented with 660 mg/kg CAT), the feeding experiment ended on day 14 of lactation.

Results

The lactating sows in the CAT group produced more milk, and had higher antioxidant enzymes activity including POD and GSH-Px (P < 0.05), lower content of serum LDL as well as plasmic C18:3n3 content (P < 0.05). Additionally, maternal CAT supplementation improved offspring's body weight at day 14 of nursing period and ADG (P < 0.05), and regulated the antioxidant ability as evidenced by decreased related enzymes activity such as T-AOC and CAT and changed genes expression level. It significantly affected lipid metabolism of suckling piglets manifested by increasing the serum ALT, CHOL, and LDL (P < 0.05) level and modulating plasma medium- and long-chain fatty acids (MCFAs and LCFAs), as well as regulating the genes expression involved in lipid metabolism.

Conclusion

Maternal CAT supplementation could regulate the fatty acid composition and enhance the antioxidant ability of sows and offspring during the lactating period and further promote the growth of suckling piglets. These findings might provide a reference value for the utilization of CAT as supplement for mother from late pregnancy to lactation period to promote the fatty acid metabolism of offspring.

Maternal Amino Acid Mixtures Supplementation during Late Gestation and Lactation Improved Growth Performance of Piglets through Improving Colostrum Composition and Antioxidant Capacity

During late gestation and lactation, oxidative stress in sows can affect their health and reproductive performance. Supplemental amino acid contributes to the antioxidant capacity of pigs. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different combinations of Gln, Leu and γ-GABA (amino acid mixtures, AAMs) during late gestation and lactation on the performance of the sows and their offspring. Fifty large white × landrace sows were randomly assigned to 5 groups (n = 10), including a control group and four AAMs groups (AAMs1, Gln + Leu; AAMs2 (Gln + GABA; AAMs3, Leu + GABA; AAMs4, Gln + Leu + GABA). AAMs supplementation improved the antioxidant capacity of sows, including significantly enhanced total antioxidant capacity in AAMs2, 3 and 4 groups and reduced malonaldehyde concentration in AAMs1, 3 and 4 groups. Additionally, all AAMs significantly increased lactoprotein, total solid and IgA levels of colostrum in sows during lactation. Average body weight of piglets on day 21 after birth in all AAMs groups were significantly increased. Furthermore, the significantly increased total antioxidant capacity was observed in the piglets of every AAMs group. In conclusion, supplementing AAMs during late gestation and lactation improved the antioxidant capacity of sows and colostrum composition, thereby enhancing antioxidant status and the growth performance of piglets. This study provides the possibility of maternal amino acid mixtures to improve the productivity of the swine industry.

Dietary supplementation with a mixture of herbal extracts during late gestation and lactation improves performance of sows and nursing piglets through regulation of maternal metabolism and transmission of antibodies

The dietary inclusion of phytogenic feed additives to improve the performance and health of sows is considered to be safe, effective and environmentally friendly, thus gaining growing popularity among new strategies. This study was designed with three trials aimed to determine the effective supplemental levels of Scutellaria baicalensis and Lonicera japonica mixed extracts (SLE) in sow diets based on production performance and explore its related mechanisms of action based on serum metabolites, antioxidant capacity, and immune profile of sows and nursing piglets. Trials 1 and 2 were conducted to determine the effective dose and ratio of SLE by supplementation of various proportions and doses of SLE to sows diets from the late pregnancy to weaning, with litter performance at farrowing and weaning and disease conditions being evaluated. Trial 3 was conducted to further explore the mechanisms of action of SLE as evaluated by serum immunity and antioxidants indices in late gestation and lactation sows. The results of trials 1 and 2 showed that dietary supplementation of 1.0 g/kg SLE (50% S. baicalensis extract, 30% L. japonica extract, and 20% wheat bran fiber as carrier) enhanced the number of piglets born alive, litter birth weight, litter weight gain, and average daily feed intake of sows during lactation, while decreased diarrhea of suckling piglets. In Trial 3, compared with the control group, dietary SLE supplementation increased (P < 0.05) sow serum glucose (GLU), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), prolactin (PRL) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) concentrations, and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activities at the farrowing, and increased (P < 0.05) sow serum prolactin, leptin, and insulin concentrations at d 14 of lactation. Fat concentrations in sow colostrum and in milk on day 14 of lactation, both IgA and IgG concentrations in colostrum, and both IL-10 and IgA concentrations in piglet serum at d 14 of lactation were all increased (P < 0.05) following dietary SLE supplementation. Altogether, dietary supplementation with the appropriate levels of SLE promoted health and growth of suckling piglets, which was associated with the improvement of maternal metabolism and transmission of antibodies.

Maternal Dietary Supplementation with γ-Aminobutyric Acid Alleviated Oxidative Stress in Gestating Sows and Their Offspring by Regulating GABRP

Sows usually suffer oxidative stress during gestation, and this limits the growth of fetuses via placenta. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a functional nonessential amino acid engaged in regulating the physiological status of animals. However, the effects of GABA on the oxidative homeostasis of sows and their offspring remain unclear. Eighteen late gestating sows (85 d) were divided into the CON and GABA groups and fed the basal diet and the GABA diet (200 mg/kg GABA), respectively, until farrowing. At parturition, the sows’ litter characteristics, the plasma antioxidant parameters of sows, and their offspring were evaluated. The results showed that GABA supplementation had no marked effect on the reproductive performance of sows (p > 0.10) but had a trend of reducing the amount of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in piglets (0.05 < p < 0.10). At the same time, the addition of GABA elevated the plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) level of sows and enhanced the glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity of newborn piglets (p < 0.05). Based on the H2O2-induced oxidative stress in pTr-2 cells, GABA elevated intracellular GSH-Px, SOD, catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC, p < 0.01) and upregulated the gene expressions of CAT, gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor (GABRP), and nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) in H2O2-treated pTr-2 cells (p < 0.05). Taken together, GABA improved the antioxidant capacity of sows and alleviated the placental oxidative stress by upregulating the GABRP and Nrf2 genes, which have the potential to promote oxidative homeostasis in newborn piglets.

Effect of capsaicin on the feed intake and immunoglobin concentration of sows, and performance of piglets

Capsaicin is a recognized alkaloid that can be used as a flavoring and palatability agent. These effects can increase feed intake in lactating sows during farrowing, especially under thermal stress conditions, and provide antioxidant and immunostimulant activities. The objective of this work was to find out the effects of a capsaicin-based product on the feed intake of sows, immunomodulation, and repercussions on litter performance and the control of piglet diarrhea conditions. A total of 132 pregnant sows and lactating sows and their respective litters were divided into 66 sows each and submitted to one of two possible treatments: a capsaicin-free diet (control group) or capsaicin per meal/day. Capsaicin was mixed with gestation and lactation diets in the proportion of 98.6 g of feed and 1.4 g of capsaicin/kg feed, with the dose administered "on top" of 100 g per treatment day on the first feeding. The sows were treated between 90 days of gestation and 21 days of lactation. Backfat thickness, feed intake during farrowing, colostrum production, IgG colostrum concentration, sow reproductive performance, piglet performance, and diarrhea were evaluated. Compared to the sows in the control group, those that received capsaicin had higher feed intake (+ 0.69 kg/day during lactation, P = 0.008), higher levels of IgG in colostrum (185.75 versus 153.80 mg/mL, P = 0.04), an 11.2% higher litter weight gain, with individual piglet weight gains greater than 5.24% (P = 0.045), and an effective reduction in the frequency of piglet diarrhea on the 10th and 17th days of age (P = 0.013 and P = 0.001, respectively). Capsaicin is an additive with potential effects on the sow's performance, with positive influences on the health and growth of suckling piglets.

The Impact of Enhancing Diet Quality or Dietary Supplementation of Flavor and Multi-Enzymes on Primiparous Lactating Sows

This study was aimed to explore how a high-quality diet or a flavor plus multi-enzyme diet affects the feed intake, nutrient digestibility and antioxidation capacity of lactating sows and the growth of their progeny. Thirty primiparous sows were randomly assigned to three treatments from d 2 of lactation until weaning (d 21): control (CON), with a basal diet; high quality (HQ), with 200 kcal/kg higher net energy than CON; or the CON diet supplemented with 500 mg/kg flavor and 100 mg/kg multi-enzymes (F + E). Sows fed with the HQ or F + E diets improved piglets’ live weight (p < 0.05) and average daily weight gain (p < 0.10), litter weight gain (p < 0.10) and piglet growth to milk yield ratio (p < 0.10). Compared with CON, the HQ and F + E groups increased the digestibility of ether extract, ash, neutral detergent fiber, crude fiber and phosphorus (p < 0.10), and the HQ group also increased dry matter, gross energy, crude protein, acid detergent fiber and energy intake (p < 0.05). Compared with CON, the F + E group decreased serum urea nitrogen and aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.05) and enhanced superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, but it decreased malondialdehyde in milk supernatant (p < 0.05).

Nutritional strategies to alleviate oxidative stress in sows

The performance of high-yielding sows is directly related to the productivity of pig farming. Fetal development mainly occurs during the last month of pregnancy, and the aggressive metabolic burden of sows during this stage eventually leads to systemic oxidative stress. When affected by oxidative stress, sows exhibit adverse symptoms such as reduced feed intake, hindered fetal development, and even abortion. In addition, milk synthesis during the lactation period causes a severe metabolic burden. The biological response to oxidative stress during this period is associated with a decrease in milk production, which further affects the growth of piglets. Understanding the nutritional strategies to alleviate oxidative stress in sows is crucial to maintain their reproduction and lactation performance. Recently, advances have been made in the field of nutrition to relieve oxidative stress in sows during late pregnancy and lactation. This review highlights the nutritional strategies to relieve oxidative stress in sows reported within the last 20 years.

Metabolic Profile of Sow Blood Serum after Weaning

The aim of our research was to determine the content of protein, carbohydrate, lipid, and mineral metabolites, as well as an antioxidant status of the sow's blood after weaning and to calculate the correlation between these parameters. The experiment was carried out on twenty clinically healthy crossbred sows (Yorkshire × Landrace). Twenty sows were allocated to one of two groups: (1) 1 day after weaning (group 1, n = 10) and (2) 8 days after weaning (group 2, n = 10). The basis of the sow diet was SK-1 compound feed, balanced in terms of nutrients and energy in accordance with modern standards and the recommended feeding regimen. Sows blood samples were taken and analyzed for the metabolites of nitrogenous, carbohydrate-lipid, and mineral metabolism and indicators of antioxidant status. The results showed that, in group 2, the total protein content was 89.07 g/l, which is 10.2% higher than that in group 1 (p < 0.05); it was mainly achieved due to the globulin fraction. The urea increased by 19.1% (p < 0.05), but the concentrations of magnesium and chlorides decreased by 20.2% (p < 0.01) and 5.43% (p < 0.05), as well as the alkaline phosphatase and ALT activities decreased by 42.5% (p < 0.05). Strong positive correlations of the ceruloplasmin with total protein (0.672) and very strong with globulins (0.780) were observed. There was a strong negative correlation between the AST activity and the TBA-AP content, as well as the values of phospholipids and TAWSA. There are moderate negative correlations of the TBA-AP with magnesium, TAWSA and ALT activity, and moderate positive correlations of the TBA-AP with total protein, albumin, triglycerides, and cholesterol. The revealed tendencies and dependencies will serve as the theoretical basis for the development of practical methods for regulating the level of free-radical reactions.

Evaluation of essential fatty acids in lactating sow diets on sow reproductive performance, colostrum and milk composition, and piglet survivability

Mixed parity sows (n=3,451; PIC, Hendersonville, TN; parities 2 through 9) and their litters were used to evaluate the effects of essential fatty acid (EFA) intake on sow reproductive performance, piglet growth and survivability, and colostrum and milk composition. Our hypothesis, like observed in earlier research, was that increasing linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) would improve sow and litter performance. At approximately d 112 of gestation, sows were randomly assigned within parity groups to 1 of 4 corn-soybean meal-wheat-based lactation diets that contained 0.5 (Control) or 3% choice white grease (CWG), 3% soybean oil (SO), or a combination of 3% soybean oil and 2% choice white grease (Combination). Thus, sows were provided diets with low LA and ALA in diets with CWG or high LA and ALA in diets that included soybean oil. Sows received their assigned EFA treatments until weaning and were then fed a common gestation and lactation diet in the subsequent reproductive cycle. Average daily feed intake during the lactation period increased (P &lt; 0.05) for sows fed the Combination and CWG diets compared to sows fed the Control or SO diet. However, daily LA and ALA intakes of sows fed the Combination and SO diets were still greater (P &lt; 0.05) than those of sows fed 0.5 or 3% CWG. Overall, sows consuming high EFA from the Combination or SO diets produced litters with heavier (P &lt; 0.05) piglet weaning weights and greater (P &lt; 0.05) litter ADG when compared to litters from sows fed diets with CWG that provided low EFA. Despite advantages in growth performance, there was no impact of sow EFA intake on piglet survivability (P &gt; 0.10). Additionally, lactation diet EFA composition did not influence sow colostrum or milk dry matter, crude protein, or crude fat content (P &gt; 0.10). However, LA and ALA content in colostrum and milk increased (P &lt; 0.05) in response to elevated dietary EFA from SO. There was no evidence for differences (P &gt; 0.10) in subsequent sow reproductive or litter performance due to previous lactation EFA intake. In conclusion, increased LA and ALA intake provided by soybean oil during lactation increased overall litter growth and pig weaning weights, reduced sow ADFI, but did not affect piglet survivability or subsequent performance of sows.

A High-Energy Diet and Spirulina Supplementation during Pre-Gestation, Gestation, and Lactation do Not Affect the Reproductive and Lactational Performance of Primiparous Sows

Simple Summary

High-energy or high-fat diets are often fed to pregnant and lactating sows to overcome problems resulting from insufficient energy intake. However, their long-term consumption has the potential to impair the reproductive and lactational traits in sows. The microalga spirulina has been previously described to exert beneficial health effects, and it may potentially reverse the detrimental effects induced by a high-energy diet. In the present study, both a high-energy diet and the spirulina did not affect the reproduction and lactational traits in sows, though they both influenced the colostrum fatty acids profile in a way that may impact offspring growth and health. Moreover, sows fed a high-energy diet tended to have less piglets weaned than sows fed a control diet. The spirulina was not able to reverse these effects but tended to affect the proportion of males and females per litter in a diet-specific manner.

Abstract

Feeding high-energy (HED) or high-fat diets during gestation and lactation to pigs may help cover the energy requirements of high-prolific sows but may also adversely affect their reproductive performance. The microalga Arthrospira plantensis (Sp), rich in bioactive compounds, has been described to exert beneficial health effects. The present study investigated the effects of HED and Sp intake during gestation and lactation in pigs. Twenty-four primiparous crossbred sows were fed either a HED or a control diet. Half of the sows per group were supplemented with 20 g/day of Sp. Despite a higher gross energy intake, consuming the HED did not affect the sows’ reproductive and lactational performance but significantly modified the colostrum fatty acid (FA) composition and tended to decrease the number of weaned piglets. The Sp supplementation did not affect the reproduction and lactation traits, but slightly affected the colostrum FA composition. A trend was observed for an interaction of diet and Sp in terms of offspring sex ratio with a 50% lower male-to-female ratio in the HED group compared to all other animals. These findings suggest that an HED and Sp intake hardly influence reproduction in sows. However, the HED modified the colostrum FA composition, whereas the Sp had only fewer effects, which may potentially affect offspring performance.

The Effect of Lithium Salt with Ascorbic Acid on the Antioxidant Status and Productivity of Gestating Sows

This research is aimed at the influence of different doses of lithium ascorbate on pigs’ diet estimation, at farrowing sows’ antioxidant status increase, and at lipid peroxidation product level decrease. The research was conducted in farrowing sows of the Irish landrace breed during the second farrow. Three groups of animals were formed, with ten livestock units in each. Thirty days after successful insemination, the sows of the E10, E5 and E2 experimental groups started receiving lithium ascorbate powder together with feed stuff in dosages of 10, 5 and 2 mg/kg of body weight, respectively. Their weighing and biochemical examinations were performed before the substance introduction as well as on the 60th and 110th days of pregnancy. The following were detected in sows’ blood plasma: malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, oxidized glutathione, SH/SS ratio, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity. Lithium ascorbate usage during sows’ breeding cycle caused a significant increase in SH (reduced glutathione) level by 21% (p < 0.05), SS (oxidized glutathione) level decrease by 17% (p < 0.05), and malondialdehyde level decrease by 60% (p < 0.05). These data outline antioxidant defense system activization, reducing the risk of oxidative stress under the influence of feeding with lithium ascorbate. Lithium ascorbate in dosages of 10 mg/kg per body weight given together with feed stuff shows prominent adaptogene and stress protective features in the most effective way. The research conducted regarding lithium ascorbate usage for farrowing sows can reduce the negative consequences of oxidative stress, increase sows’ health preservation level, and contribute to fertility boost.

The Selenium Yeast vs Selenium Methionine on Cell Viability, Selenoprotein Profile and Redox Status via JNK/ P38 Pathway in Porcine Mammary Epithelial Cells

Comprehensive studies have been conducted to compare the effect of organic and inorganic selenium previously, but there is still limited knowledge about the difference between organic selenium (Se) from varied sources despite the widely use of organic Se in both animal and human being nutrient additives. In the present study, we systemically compared the effect of two different types of organic Se including selenium yeast (SeY) and selenium methionine (Sel-Met) on cell viability, selenoprotein transcriptome, and antioxidant status in porcine mammary epithelial cells (PMECs) and the results indicated that appropriate addition of SeY and Sel-Met both significantly promoted cell viability and up-regulated the mRNA expression of most selenopreoteins including DIOs, GPXs, and TrxRs family et al. (P < 0.05). Besides, two different sources of Se supplementation both greatly improved redox status with higher levels of T-AOC, SOD, and CAT (P < 0.05), while less content of MDA (P < 0.05), and reduced protein expression of cleaved-caspase-3 (P < 0.05) to mitigate cell apoptosis. Furthermore, the key proteins related to p38/JNK pathway including p38, p-p38, JNK, and p-JNK were apparently reduced in the groups with both of SeY and Sel-Met (P < 0.05). Interestingly we found that the changes induced by SeY supplementation in cell viability, selenoprotein transcriptome, antioxidative capacity, and anti-apoptosis were comprehensively greater compared with same levels addition of Sel-Met in PEMCs (P < 0.05). In conclusion, both SeY and Sel-Met promoted cell viability and attenuated cell apoptosis by regulating the selenoprotein expression and antioxidative capacity via p38/JNK signaling pathway in PMEC, but SeY has more efficient benefits than that of Sel-Met.

Dietary Supplementation of Enzymatically Treated Artemisia annua L. Improves Lactation Performance, Alleviates Inflammatory Response of Sows Reared Under Heat Stress, and Promotes Gut Development in Preweaning Offspring

Artemisia annua L., which is known for its antimalarial compound artemisinin, has commonly been used for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial functions. Enzymatically treating Artemisia annua L. can improve its bioavailability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary enzymatically treated Artemisia annua L. (EA) supplementation in late gestation and lactation diets on sow performance, serum hormone, inflammatory cytokines, and immunoglobulin level of heat-stressed sows. A total of 135 multiparous sows (Large White × Landrace) on day 85 of gestation were selected and randomly distributed into 3 groups with 45 replicates per group. The control group was reared under standard conditions (temperature: 27.12 ± 0.18°C, THI (temperature-humidity index): 70.90 ± 0.80) and fed with basal diet. The heat stress (HS) and HS + EA groups were raised in heat-stressed conditions (temperature: 30.11 ± 0.16°C, THI: 72.70 ± 0.60) and fed with basal diets supplemented with 0 or 1.0 g/kg EA, respectively. This trial lasted for 50 consecutive days until day 21 of lactation. Compared with the control group, HS increased the concentrations of serum endotoxin and heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70), and inflammatory cytokines in serum, colostrum, and 14 day milk of sows. Meanwhile, the EA supplementation decreased levels of serum endotoxin, HSP-70, and inflammatory cytokines in both sows and offspring and increased serum triiodothyronine (T₃) level and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of sows. In addition, EA significantly improved average daily gain (ADG) and altered intestinal morphology with an increased villus height in the duodenum and ileum of piglets. Collectively, EA supplementation at 1.0 g/kg in late gestation and lactation diets alleviated the adverse effects of HS, which were reflected by enhancing ADFI and decreasing endotoxin as well as inflammatory cytokine levels in the serum and colostrum of heat-stressed sows, while promoting ADG and gut development of their offspring.

Effect of Maternal Catalase Supplementation on Reproductive Performance, Antioxidant Activity and Mineral Transport in Sows and Piglets

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of maternal catalase (CAT) supplementation on reproductive performance, antioxidant enzyme activities, mineral transport, and mRNA expression of related genes in sows and offspring. A total of 40 pregnant sows at 95 days of gestation with similar parity (3−5 parities) and back-fat thickness were assigned randomly and equally into the control (CON) group (fed a basal diet) and CAT group (fed a basal diet supplemented with 660 mg/kg CAT; CAT activity, 280 U/g). The reproductive performance was recorded, and the placenta and blood samples of sows and neonatal piglets, as well as the jejunum and ileum samples from neonatal boars (eight replicates per group), were collected. Results showed that dietary supplementation with CAT significantly decreased the intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) rate and increased the activity of serum CAT in neonatal piglets and umbilical cords (p < 0.05). In addition, CAT supplementation tended to improve total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) levels in the maternal serum (p = 0.089) and umbilical cords of piglets (p = 0.051). The serum calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) of farrowing sows and Mn concentration in the umbilical cord, and serum Ca, magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), and Mn of neonatal piglets were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the CAT group. CAT supplementation downregulated mRNA expression of TRPV6 and CTR1 (p < 0.05), Cu/Zn SOD (p = 0.086) in the placenta and tended to increase the mRNA expression of the glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) (p = 0.084), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) (p = 0.063), and CAT (p = 0.052) genes in the ileum of piglets. These results showed that the maternal CAT supplementation improved fetal growth by decreasing the IUGR rate, and modulated antioxidant activity, as well as mineral elements in the pregnant sows and their piglets.

Maternal Nutrition During Late Gestation and Lactation: Association With Immunity and the Inflammatory Response in the Offspring

The immature immune system at birth and environmental stress increase the risk of infection in nursing pigs. Severe infection subsequently induces intestinal and respiratory diseases and even cause death of pigs. The nutritional and physiological conditions of sows directly affect the growth, development and disease resistance of the fetus and newborn. Many studies have shown that providing sows with nutrients such as functional oligosaccharides, oils, antioxidants, and trace elements could regulate immunity and the inflammatory response of piglets. Here, we reviewed the positive effects of certain nutrients on milk quality, immunoglobulin inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and intestinal microflora of sows, and further discuss the effects of these nutrients on immunity and the inflammatory response in the offspring.

Soy isoflavones supplementation improves reproductive performance and serum antioxidant status of sows and the growth performance of their offspring

A total of 60 sows (Landrace × Yorkshire, average parity was 1.39) were used to evaluate the effects of soy isoflavones (ISO) supplementation on reproductive performance, serum antioxidant enzyme parameters, and milk compositions of sows, and the growth performance of offspring. Sows were randomly assigned to 4 groups based on the parity. There were 15 replicates per treatment. Dietary treatments were based on a corn-soybean meal-based basal diet and supplemented with 0, 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg ISO. With the increase of the ISO dosage, average daily feed intake of sows increased linearly; oestrus interval decreased linearly and quadratically. In addition, on day 10 of lactation, linear increases in serum superoxide dismutase levels, linear and quadratic increases in serum total antioxidant capacity, and linear decreases in serum malondialdehyde levels were observed in increasing ISO dosage in the diet of sows. The body weight on day 10 and 21 and the average daily gain during days 3-10 and 3-21 of offspring increased linearly at graduated doses of ISO increased. Therefore, feeding sows with graded levels of ISO containing diet during late-gestation and lactation periods improved the reproductive performance of sows and the growth performance of their offspring in a dose-dependent manner.

Antioxidants in Animal Nutrition

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and their neutralization by the antioxidants' defenses [...].

Supplementing daidzein in diets improves the reproductive performance, endocrine hormones and antioxidant capacity of multiparous sows

Certain hormones play important roles in modulating mammalian reproductive behaviour. Daidzein is a well-known isoflavonic phytoestrogen that possesses oestrogenic activity. This study was conducted to probe the effects of daidzein supplementation in gestation diets on the reproductive performance in sows. A total of 120 multiparous sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) were randomly assigned to 2 groups (n = 60) and fed either a base diet (control) or one containing 200 mg/kg daidzein during gestation. We discovered that daidzein supplementation significantly increased the total number of piglets born per litter and number of piglets born alive per litter (P < 0.05), decreased the farrowing time (P < 0.05) and increased the serum oestrogen and progesterone concentrations (P < 0.05) at 35 d of gestation. Moreover, serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were higher in the daidzein-treated group than in the control group at 35 d of gestation (P < 0.05). Daidzein increased the serum SOD activity and total anti-oxidative capacity (T-AOC) at 85 d of gestation (P < 0.05). Interestingly, daidzein elevated the expression levels of the sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 1 (SLC38A1) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) genes in the placenta (P < 0.05). These results suggest that daidzein ingestion could improve sow reproductive performance by changing serum hormones, elevating anti-oxidative capacity and up-regulating critical functional genes in the placenta.

Supplementation of Aloe vera extract in lactating goats' diet: effects on rumen fermentation efficiency, nutrient utilization, lactation performance, and antioxidant status

The present work was conducted to investigate the effects of supplementing Aloe vera extract on rumen fermentation efficiency, nutrient utilization, lactation performance, and antioxidant status of goats. Twenty-four crossbreed lactating goats (Alpine × Beetal) were divided into three experimental groups (AV0, AV2, and AV4). AV0 had no supplementation, groups AV2 and AV4 received ready to feed aqueous extract of Aloe vera at 20 and 40 g/kg dry matter intake, respectively, along with basal diet and experiment lasted for 100 days. Average DMI did not vary (P > 0.05) among treatment groups; however, the metabolic bodyweight of AV4 was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than the AV0 and AV2 groups (AV0 = AV2 > AV4). Intake and digestibility of DM, OM, CP, NDF, ADF, and EE were unaffected (P > 0.05) by Aloe vera supplementation. The milk production, yield of milk fat, protein, lactose, and solid not fat (SNF) of goats in the AV4 group were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than other groups (AV4 > AV2 = AV0). The activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase enzymes and levels of plasma ferric reducing total antioxidant power were high (P < 0.01) in the Aloe vera supplemented group (AV4 = AV2 > AV0). There was no significant difference (P = 0.979) in the pH, acetic acid (P = 0.449), and butyric acid (P = 0.864) concentration of the rumen liquor among the treatment groups. The propionic acid concentration was similar between AV2 and AV4 and significantly higher (P = 0.024) than the AV0 group (AV4 = AV2 > AV0). Moreover, C2:C3 values were significantly lower (P = 0.037) in the AV4 group compared to the control (AV0). Thus, Aloe vera supplementation enhanced milk yield, propionic acid production, and antioxidant status without affecting nutrient utilization; however, results were better in the AV4 group. The inclusion of Aloe vera at 40 g/kg of DMI would improve the rumen fermentation efficiency, lactation performance, and overall health status of the dairy goats.