Protein-Calorie Malnutrition in Young Miniature Swine: Serum Free Amino Acids

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Abstract
The effects of protein-calorie malnutrition (PCM) on serum free amino acid concentrations were evaluated using 54 miniature swine. Eighteen piglets were weaned at each of the following ages: 5, 21, or, 35 days. Within each age group, six piglets were assigned to one of three feeding regimes: 20% protein diet fed ad libitum, 5% protein diet fed ad libitum (malnourished), or 20% protein diet pair-fed to malnourished piglets. At age 63 days, fasting blood samples were collected and analyzed for serum free amino acid content. Normal relationships among concentrations of certain amino acids were altered. The effects of PCM on serum free amino acid concentrations varied as to age of onset as well as to the type of malnutrition: protein deficiency or protein-calorie deficiency.