Abstract

Three experiments, using 344 pigs, were conducted to evaluate the influence of β-glucan (MacroGard™-S) on neutrophil and macrophage function, resistance to Streptococcus suis challenge, and growth performance in weanling pigs. β-glucan, when fed at inclusion rates of .05 and .1 %, did not influence neutrophil or macrophage function or increase overall growth performance. Similarly, .025% β-glucan did not alter neutrophil or macrophage bactericidal activity or production of superoxide anion. However, diets containing.025% β-glucan increased average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and pigs weights and decreased plasma haptoglobin levels on d 21. Unfortunately, pigs fed a diet containing .025% that exhibited increased growth performance were more likely to die after challenge with S. suis. These data suggest the existence of a complex interaction involving growth performance and resistance to S. suis in pigs fed .025% β-glucan. The interaction should be investigated further.; Swine Day, Manhattan, KS, November 17, 1994

Keywords: Swine day, 1994, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution, no. 95-175-S, Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service), 717, Swine, Starter pigs, β-glucan, Growth

How to Cite:

Shi, J. N., Kielian, T. L., Chengappa, M. M., Smith, J. E., Blecha, F., Dritz, S. S., Goodband, R. D., Nelssen, J. L. & Tokach, M. D., (1994) “Influence of β-glucan on nonspecific immunity and growth performance in weanling pigs”, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports 1(10), 125-131. doi: https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.6419