Gene Expression Changes in Pigs Fed Zinc and Phytase
Author Information
Author(s): MartÃnez-Montemayor Michelle M, Hill Gretchen M, Raney Nancy E, Rilington Valencia D, Tempelman Robert J, Link Jane E, Wilkinson Christopher P, Ramos Antonio M, Ernst Catherine W
Primary Institution: Michigan State University
Hypothesis
The benefits of pharmacological zinc supplementation result from changes in gene expression that could be further affected by supplemental phytase.
Conclusion
Feeding pharmacological zinc affects genes involved in reducing oxidative stress and amino acid metabolism, which are essential for cell detoxification and proper cell function.
Supporting Evidence
- 61 differentially expressed transcripts were identified.
- 650 annotated transcripts were affected by pharmacological zinc supplementation.
- Relative hepatic GLO1, PRDX4, and ACY1 mRNA abundances were confirmed to be greater in pigs fed higher zinc levels.
Takeaway
This study found that giving pigs extra zinc helps their bodies work better by changing how their genes behave, especially in fighting stress and using proteins.
Methodology
Liver RNA from pigs was analyzed using differential display reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and oligonucleotide microarray techniques.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and variability in transcript abundance among pigs.
Participant Demographics
Newly weaned pigs
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0007
Statistical Significance
p<0.0007
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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