Effects of S-Abscisic Acid on Reproductive Performance in Sows

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Optimizing sow reproductive efficiency is crucial for swine production economics.
• Abscisic acid (ABA) is a plant hormone with potential signaling roles in animals.
• Investigating novel feed additives for improved livestock performance is an ongoing research area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of dietary S-abscisic acid (S-ABA) on the reproductive performance of multiparous sows.
• To assess the effects of S-ABA supplementation on piglet growth and litter outcomes.
• To determine the optimal inclusion level of S-ABA for commercial swine farming.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-five multiparous sows were assigned to a control diet or diets supplemented with 1 ppm or 10 ppm S-ABA.
• The study spanned approximately 147 days, covering non-pregnant, gestation, and lactation phases.
• Reproductive parameters (piglets born/weaned, body weight) and general health were monitored.

Main Results:

• 1 ppm S-ABA significantly increased the number of piglets born compared to controls (p < 0.05).
• Both 1 ppm and 10 ppm S-ABA significantly increased the number of piglets weaned (p < 0.05) and average piglet weaning weight (p < 0.01).
• No additional benefits were observed with 10 ppm S-ABA compared to 1 ppm; piglet survival rates were unaffected.

Conclusions:

• Dietary S-ABA supplementation at low levels (1 ppm) positively influences sow reproductive performance.
• S-ABA enhances piglet growth, evidenced by increased weaning weights.
• Low-level S-ABA supplementation is a promising strategy for improving swine production efficiency under practical conditions.