Integrating microbiome data to improve breeding value prediction for finishing traits in pigs
By Toyoto Maruyama The pig gut microbiome consists of a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that can influence traits such as growth and feed efficiency. In this study, we aim to investigate whether adding information on the pig microbiome could improve the accuracy of predicting pigs’ breeding values for several finishing […]
Genetic Selection is a powerful ally against PRRS
By Claudia Sevillano Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is one of the most damaging diseases in pig farming, causing illness during all stages of production. However, new research from Topigs Norsvin confirms that traditional breeding can be used to help combat this disease. At Topigs Norsvin, researchers have been analyzing data collected from pigs […]
The science of better bones
By Signe Lovise Thingnes With pigs growing faster and becoming more feed-efficient than ever, we must stay on top of the requirements and fine-tune the balance of vitamins and minerals needed to support their development—especially when it comes to bone health. One critical nutrient is Vitamin D. Why is Vitamin D important for pigs?Vitamin D […]
Genetic analyses of posture traits automatically recorded from video data of pigs
By Kristine Hov Martinsen With bigger farms and fewer people working closely with animals, it’s harder to keep an eye on how pigs behave. But behavior is important — we want pigs that are calm, healthy, and not hurting each other. In this study, we used video cameras and smart technology to identify and track […]
Validating runs of homozygosity in pig populations
By Kelvin Kelles Inbreeding, defined as mating between closely related animals, can accelerate genetic progress but also poses significant risks, such as the reduction of genetic diversity. One way to better manage inbreeding in pig breeding programs is to analyze the level of runs of homozygosity (ROH). ROH are continuous stretches of DNA where genetic […]
Swine Inflammation and Necrosis Syndrome (SINS) and its genetic relationship with post-weaning skin damage
By Arielly Oliveira Garcia Lesions and injuries observed on a pig’s body extremities, such as the tail and ears, have traditionally been attributed to damaging behaviors such as tail and ear biting. However, the presence of lesion signs in newborn piglets, before any social interaction with other mates, indicates that these injuries may result from […]
Identifying reciprocal translocations in pigs through LD analysis of offspring genotypes
By Anne Boshove The most common structural chromosomal abnormalities in humans and livestock are Reciprocal Translocations (RTs). An RT occurs when two different chromosomes exchange a part of their DNA with each other. This leads to reduced fertility of the carrier, as they have the chance to pass on an incomplete set of genetic information […]
Automated video analysis for monitoring of sow behavior
By Sehrish Malik Piglet mortality remains a major challenge in pig production, with over 18% of piglets lost before weaning (Ingris 2023). One key factor influencing piglet survival is the sow’s behaviour before and after farrowing. However, observing these behaviours manually is time-consuming, subjective, and often disruptive to the animals. In our study, we developed […]
Seminal plasma fingerprints
By Nils Kristian Afseth (Nofima) and Ann Helen Gaustad Even though CASA (Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis) is broadly used to ensure semen quality, a few sub fertile boars still pass the screening of boars suitable for semen production centers. Additional factors in the semen may play a role in boar subfertility. Seminal plasma, the liquid fraction […]
Assessment of bacteriospermia using flow cytometry
By Nicolas F. Koller and Carolina Da Silva The negative effect of bacteria in semen quality depends on the sperm concentration of the AI doses in relation to the concentration of bacteria present, i.e. the sperm to bacteria ratio. We used flow cytometry to count the number of bacteria in boar AI doses and investigated […]
Implementation of Flow Cytometry to Assess the DNA Fragmentation Index in Young Boars – a practical experience from The Netherlands
By Carolina Da Silva and Rodrigo M. Godinho The sperm cells carry the DNA, which contains the paternal genetic information to fertilization. Damage can occur during sperm production causing DNA fragmentation. This can have consequences for fertility results. In this study we measured the levels of DNA fragmentation in the ejaculates of young boars […]
Speed vs Endurance: The importance of assessing sperm motility after storage
By Pedro Sá The swine industry relies on high-quality pig semen because it is crucial for efficient production. To ensure quality, semen is evaluated immediately after collection, including how well the sperm moves (motility).Because semen is often stored for several days before use, its quality can change. In our study, we looked at the genetic […]