Stress signaling pathways activated by weaning mediate intestinal dysfunction in the pig

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Gastroenterology
• Physiology

Background:

• Weaning is a stressful period for piglets, often leading to gastrointestinal issues and increased disease risk.
• The precise mechanisms linking stress to postweaning intestinal dysfunction in pigs remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of weaning on piglet gastrointestinal health.
• To determine the role of stress signaling pathways in mediating weaning-induced intestinal changes.

Main Methods:

• Piglet jejunal and colonic tissues were analyzed using Ussing chambers to assess barrier function and ion transport.
• Western blot analysis was employed to examine the expression of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptor 1.
• The impact of a CRF receptor antagonist was evaluated in vivo.

Main Results:

• Weaning significantly reduced transepithelial electrical resistance and increased intestinal permeability in both jejunum and colon.
• Weaned tissues showed heightened secretory activity, indicating activation of enteric nerves and prostaglandin synthesis.
• Increased expression of CRF receptor 1 was observed in the jejunum and colon of weaned piglets.
• Administration of a CRF receptor antagonist prevented weaning-induced mucosal dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Weaning stress triggers intestinal mucosal dysfunction in piglets.
• This dysfunction is mediated by intestinal CRF receptors, activated by enteric nerves and prostanoid pathways.
• Targeting CRF receptors may offer a strategy to mitigate weaning-related gastrointestinal problems in pigs.