Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026
06:38
Use of a Piglet Model for the Study of Anesthetic-induced Developmental Neurotoxicity (AIDN): A Translational Neuroscience Approach
Published on: June 11, 2017
Attempts to modify changes in the piglet small intestine after weaning
Research in Veterinary Science
|May 1, 1986
Summary
Hydrolyzed casein diets significantly altered piglet small intestine structure and enzyme activity post-weaning. This dietary intervention shows promise for mitigating intestinal changes in young pigs.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Gastroenterology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Weaning induces significant changes in the piglet small intestine.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for piglet health and development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different post-weaning diets on piglet small intestine structure and function.
- To identify dietary strategies that can mitigate negative changes associated with weaning.
Main Methods:
- Piglets were weaned at three weeks and fed different diets: oxytetracycline, sow-milk replacer, casein, or hydrolysed casein.
- Small intestinal structure and brush-border enzyme activities were analyzed after five days.
- Intestinal pathogens (Escherichia coli, rotaviruses) and diarrhea incidence were monitored.
Main Results:
- Hydrolysed casein diets significantly modified crypt depth and brush-border enzyme activity.
- These modifications were observed in the mid-section (50-75%) of the small intestine.
- No significant differences were noted in pathogen presence or diarrhea incidence across groups.
Conclusions:
- Hydrolysed casein diets offer a protective effect on the piglet small intestine post-weaning.
- The low antigenicity of hydrolysed casein may contribute to its beneficial impact.
- Dietary strategies can modulate intestinal adaptation following weaning.
