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Stress-Induced Phosphaturia in Weaned Piglets
Malgorzata Habich1, Bartosz Pawlinski2, Maria Sady2
1Department of Bioinformatics, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics PAS, ul. Pawinskiego 5A, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|December 1, 2020
Summary
Weaning stress in piglets causes biochemical changes, including phosphaturia and hypophosphatemia, and minor tissue hypoxia. This study investigates these critical physiological shifts during the weaning period.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Biochemistry
- Animal Physiology
Background:
- The weaning period in piglets is a critical phase marked by significant dietary changes and stress.
- Stress during weaning can lead to various health and welfare issues, including altered feeding behaviors and infections.
- While weaning age and weight are well-studied, the biochemical impact of stress on piglets requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biochemical effects of weaning stress on piglets.
- To analyze gasometric parameters and hypoxia biomarkers in piglets before and after weaning.
- To understand the physiological changes and their implications during the critical post-weaning period.
Main Methods:
- Blood and urine samples were collected from piglets one and seven days before and after weaning.
- Gasometric analysis was performed to assess for hyperventilation.
- Measurements of hypoxia biomarkers were conducted to evaluate tissue oxygenation.
- Statistical analysis was applied to the collected biochemical data.
Main Results:
- No evidence of hyperventilation was detected in the piglets.
- Phosphaturia (increased phosphate in urine) was observed one day postweaning.
- Hypophosphatemia (low phosphate in blood) was identified seven days postweaning.
- Statistical analysis indicated minor tissue hypoxia across the piglet population.
Conclusions:
- Weaning stress induces significant biochemical alterations in piglets, specifically affecting phosphate metabolism.
- The findings suggest a link between weaning stress, altered phosphate levels, and potential tissue hypoxia.
- This research provides valuable insights into the biochemical dynamics and physiological responses of piglets during the stressful weaning transition.

