Scientific Reports of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine

Features of piglet metabolism under the application of monoglycerides

Andrii Gavrylenko, Dmytro Masiuk
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Abstract

Optimising piglet metabolism in the early postnatal period is an important task in modern animal husbandry. The use of functional additives such as SCFA-M can have a positive effect on protein and energy metabolism, reduce stress, and improve the productivity and health of piglets. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of SCFA-M on protein and energy metabolism and the general physiological condition of animals in the early rearing stage. The study was conducted on 42-day-old piglets divided into control and experimental groups; the animals in the experimental group received SCFA-M as part of their diet. The evaluation was carried out using biochemical methods of blood analysis to determine the levels of major metabolites and the activity of key enzymes; statistical processing was performed with a check of the normality of distribution and the corresponding parametric/non-parametric criteria. The use of SCFA-M significantly modulated protein metabolism: total protein increased by 9.1% (p<0.05), globulins by 31.8% (p<0.001), while the protein coefficient decreased by 16.5% (p<0.001) . Aminotransferase activity was lower, indicating less stress on the liver. Blood urea and urea nitrogen levels decreased by 16.5% and 20%, respectively, indicating more efficient nitrogen utilisation. Carbohydrate and mineral metabolism also improved: glucose increased to 6.48 mmol/L (+47.9%; p<0.001), calcium absorption increased by 10%, and phosphorus absorption increased by 28.9% (p<0.001). The results obtained expand understanding of the mechanisms of action of monoglycerides and confirm the feasibility of their use in pig farming; at the same time, they require further research with longer monitoring, performance evaluation and intestinal homeostasis indicators. The practical significance lies in the possibility of using SCFA-M as part of support programmes for piglets in the post-weaning period, with a possible reduction in the need for antibacterial agents and an improvement in animal welfare

Keywords

SCFA-M, protein metabolism, enzymes, energy metabolism, mineral metabolism

Suggested citation
Gavrylenko, A., & Masiuk, D. (2025). Features of piglet metabolism under the application of monoglycerides. Scientific Reports of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, 21(4),107-121. https://doi.org/10.31548/dopovidi/4.2025.107
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