Anti-oxidative stress system cooperating with IgA promotes the low temperature adaptation of Rongchang piglets

Abstract

Young animals are more susceptible to temperature; mild cold stress results in body damage and decreased productivity. Some studies have demonstrated that minor damage caused by hypothermia can be self-recovering, but this mechanism remains to be explored. Thirty Rongchang piglets were randomly divided into a control group (N = 15, temperature = 22.80–25.70 °C, humidity = 46– 66%) and a cold stress group (N = 15, temperature = 13.20–16.20 °C, humidity = 77–93 %) and were fed normal diets for 30 days. Blood samples were collected on 15th and 30th days to detect immune system and oxidative stress indicators. Aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and malondialdehyde content in the serum of Rongchang piglets increased by 50%, 110%, and 30% in the cold stress group. The interleukin and immunoglobulins in serum in the cold stress group were lower than those in the control group. However, the levels of IgA, glutathione peroxidase, and CAT gradually recovered with the extension of the cold treatment time. Mild cold stress leads to liver damage and decreased immunity and the development of oxidative stress in Rongchang piglets. However, Rongchang piglets achieve cold acclimation via the synergistic effects of immune regulation involving IgA and the involvement of glutathione peroxidase and catalase in hydrogen peroxide catabolism. This study provides the theoretical and experimental basis for exploring cold adaptation in Rongchang piglets.