Validation of a phenotyping method to identify PRRSV-resilient sows and its impact on sow stayability.

Endemic and epidemic outbreaks of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) are causing large economic losses in commercial pig production worldwide. Given the complexity of controlling this disease with vaccines or other biosecurity measures, the selection for pigs with a natural resilience to this infection has been proposed as an alternative approach. In this context, we previously reported a vaccine-based protocol to classify 6-week-old female piglets from one farm into resilient and susceptible phenotypes.

An investigation of the transmission of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae within vertically integrated systems using whole genome sequencing.

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) causes significant economic losses to the swine industry. Antibiotic treatment can be challenging due to its clinical urgency and the turnover of antimicrobial susceptibility results from the diagnostic laboratory. The aim of this study was to evaluate the vertical transmission of APP within integrated systems as a criterion for optimising antimicrobial treatment in the field, using whole genome sequencing (WGS).

Evolution of viscera and muscle fractional protein synthesis rate in lean meat selected hybrids and castrated Duroc pigs fed under moderate crude protein restriction.

Differences in producing performance and organoleptic meat characteristics among pig genotypes and/or producing types are widely known. These parameters are also subjected to the animal's development, feeding and management. Detailed knowledge of the effects of production phase (PP), pig producing type (PT), dietary protein availability and their interactions on nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance and protein metabolism is essential information to improve precision feeding techniques.