Relative prolactin to progesterone concentrations around farrowing influence colostrum yield in primiparous sows

In swine, colostrum production is induced by the drop of progesterone (P4) concentrations which leads to the prepartum peak of prolactin (PRL). Prolactin regulates mammary cell turnover and stimulates lacteal nutrient synthesis. Progesterone inhibits prolactin secretion and down-regulates the prolactin receptor in the mammary gland. The aim of the present study was to determine if the relative prepartum concentrations of progesterone and prolactin (PRL/P4 ratio) influence sow colostrum production.

Source: Domestic Animal Endocrinology - May 1, 2015 Category: Endocrinology Authors: F. Loisel, C. Farmer, H. van Hees, H. Quesnel Source Type: research