Summary
Background & aims
Bone-promoting effect of different proteins in early life, under immunocompromised conditions, is unknown. We investigated effects of milk- and plant-derived proteins on bone development in immunocompromised piglets.
Methods
Newborn, colostrum-deprived piglets were assigned to a formula based on either casein (n=11), whey (n=11) or soy (n=10) as the protein source (each 55g/L), and equal amounts of fat, carbohydrates, calcium and phosphorus.
Results & Conclusion
Despite efforts to sustain immuno-protection (sow serum and antibiotic injections), some piglets became sick and were early euthanised. After 6 days, bone density (peripheral quantitative computed tomography), bone mechanical strength (three-point bending test) and serum insulin-like growth factor-I (sIGF-I) (immunoassay) were measured in the surviving piglets (casein n=5, whey n=9, soy n=5).
Results
Baseline body weight was not significantly different between the groups and between early euthanised and surviving piglets. After 6 days, all piglets showed depressed growth and low sIGF-I levels. At trabecular sites, whey reduced bone mineral density compared with casein and soy (P⩽0.01), and reduced mineral content compared with casein (P⩽0.01). Whey decreased cortical thickness and bone strength compared with casein (P⩽0.04).
Conclusion
Despite immunocompromised conditions, casein and soy protein may promote a better bone development in colostrum-deprived piglets.
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