Hematologic and biochemical reference intervals for 1-month-old specific-pathogen-free Landrace pigs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Science
• Comparative Physiology

Background:

• Hematologic and biochemical reference intervals (RIs) are essential for assessing animal health.
• Specific RIs for 1-month-old specific-pathogen-free (SPF) Landrace pigs were previously undetermined.
• Establishing these RIs is vital for accurate nutritional and clinical assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the hematologic and biochemical reference intervals for SPF 1-month-old Landrace pigs.
• To provide foundational data for the use of SPF Landrace pigs in research.
• To facilitate accurate health monitoring and diagnosis in this animal model.

Main Methods:

• Blood samples were collected from 105 SPF 1-month-old Landrace pigs (50 males, 55 females).
• Complete blood counts and serum biochemical analyses were performed.
• Statistical analysis included calculating means, RIs, 90% confidence intervals, and gender-based differences.

Main Results:

• Comprehensive reference intervals were established for SPF 1-month-old Landrace pigs.
• Generally, no significant gender-based differences were observed in hematologic or biochemical variables (P > .05).
• A significant difference in serum triglyceride concentrations was noted between male and female pigs (P < .05).

Conclusions:

• This study successfully generated essential hematologic and biochemical reference intervals for SPF 1-month-old Landrace pigs.
• The data supports the use of SPF Landrace pigs as a reliable laboratory animal model.
• These RIs are critical for future research and clinical applications involving this specific pig population.