SID Trp-Lys Ratio on Pig Performance and Immune Response After LPS Challenge

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Physiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Tryptophan is an essential amino acid for protein synthesis and neurotransmitter production in pigs.
• The tryptophan-to-lysine ratio is a key nutritional factor influencing pig growth and health.
• Understanding the optimal SID Trp-Lys ratio is vital for improving swine production efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of varying SID Trp-Lys ratios on pig growth performance.
• To assess the effects of different SID Trp-Lys ratios on immune response following an lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge.
• To determine the optimal SID Trp-Lys ratio for young pigs.

Main Methods:

• 120 entire male pigs (16.5 kg BW) were fed diets with SID Trp-Lys ratios of 16%, 18%, 21%, and 24%.
• Performance parameters (BW, ADG, ADFI, FCR) were measured.
• Serum serotonin, and cytokine responses (post-LPS challenge) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• A SID Trp-Lys ratio of 16% resulted in lower final body weight (FBW).
• Optimal FBW and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were observed at 22.05% and 21% SID Trp-Lys, respectively.
• LPS challenge increased cytokine levels, with interactions noted for IL-2 and IL-18.

Conclusions:

• SID Trp-Lys ratios between 21% and 24% optimize growth performance in pigs (16-33 kg).
• These ratios also modulate the immune response in pigs subjected to an LPS-induced challenge.
• The findings provide valuable insights for swine nutrition and health management.