The influence of nonspecific immunostimulation of pregnant sows on the immunological value of colostrum

The purpose of this experiment was to estimate the influence of nonspecific immunostimulation of pregnant sows on the immunological value of colostrum. The studies were done in the fall-winter season on 20 pregnant sows (Polish Landrace) divided into four groups, five animals each. The sows were clinically healthy and unvaccinated. Group I received isoprinosine, group II (TFX), group III (HMB), and group IV served a control. The immunostimulants were applicated 4-6 weeks before the expected date of delivery. The following parameters were determined in colostrum taken from sows after completed delivery: specific gravidity; total proteins, lysozyme activity, IgG level. It was found that the nonspecific immunostimulation of pregnant sows increased in colostrum the level of IgG, total protein content and lysozyme activity. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.