Influencing the immune parameters in germ-free piglets by administration of seal oil with increased content of omega-3 PUFA

Arch Tierernahr. 2001;54(4):315-27. doi: 10.1080/17450390109381988.

Abstract

Oral administration of oil with an increased content of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids to germ-free piglets resulted in a significant increase in the total values of CD4, CD8 lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and monocytes, in peripheral blood in comparison with the controls. The metabolic activities of phagocytes as well as the polyclonal activation of lymphocytes were not significantly influenced. The level of growth factor was significantly higher, as determined on the basis of somatomedin in the blood serum. Biochemical indices showed a significant increase in the level of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids in blood serum and the decrease in the level of arachidonic acid at the same time.

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Animals
  • Arachidonic Acid / blood
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / blood
  • Eicosapentaenoic Acid / blood
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / administration & dosage*
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / pharmacology
  • Germ-Free Life / immunology*
  • Growth Substances / blood
  • Immunity, Cellular
  • Immunoglobulin M / blood
  • Leukocyte Count / veterinary
  • Lymphocytes / physiology
  • Phagocytes / physiology
  • Seals, Earless
  • Swine / blood
  • Swine / growth & development
  • Swine / immunology*
  • Weight Gain

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Growth Substances
  • Immunoglobulin M
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids
  • Arachidonic Acid
  • Eicosapentaenoic Acid