Sialic acid kinetics in a porcine model of the human neonate

The work described in this thesis was designed to investigate the kinetics of sialic acid in a porcine model of the human neonate. As part of efforts to evaluate the neonatal piglet as a suitable model, the present study assessed the incorporation of sialic acid into the brains of piglets. Furthermore, the suitability of a sow milk replacement formula for use with early-weaned piglets in an artificial rearing environment was also investigated. The growth and blood biochemistry of the piglets reared on the replacement formulas were examined and compared to the natural nursing system for any impact that may inhibit their use in future animal modelling studies. The administration of radio labelled sialic acid indicates that sialic acid uptake occurs in all the organs tested as well as the brain of the piglet. Final levels of radioactivity were low in both the brain and organs most probably due to the rapid clearance of the label from the circulation. The results of the isotope studies show that the uptake of sialic acid into the brain would not be a limiting factor when using piglets as a model for human neonate sialic acid studies. The performance (growth) of the piglets reared on the specific pig milk replacer was found to closely follow that of the treatment group that was left unrestricted on the sow. The infant formula group however displayed poor performance and developed scours, which further inhibited their performance. No discemable difference was found in the blood biochemistry between the treatment groups. The pig milk replacer was found to be a suitable substitute that could be used in further animal modelling studies