Correlation between 17-OHCS levels influenced by heat stress and some basic carcass value indices in pigs

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Abstract
SUMMARY: Seventy-six pigs provided with indwelling venous catheters were exposed for 40 min to a temperature of 40°C and 100% relative humidity. Plasma 17-OHCS levels were determined during the period of stress and up to 24 hr thereafter. The results obtained were assessed in relation to backfat thickness, and eye-muscle area and appearance (Göfö value) in groups of 10 animals showing maximum and minimum values for these parameters. In all the animals the heat and humidity stress brought about an increase in the plasma levels of 17-OHCS. Significant differences were more often found in the induced 17-OHCS levels in those animals which appeared to be leaner on the basis of backfat thickness and eye-muscle area and produced poorer quality meat than in those with less lean of better quality. These results support the notion that there is increased activity of the adrenals of leaner types of pig which produce meat of poor quality.