Michelle McMullen
3 Oct 2024
Dr. Chengbo Yang from the University of Manitoba discusses his collaborative research project exploring an integrated approach to replace antimicrobials in weaned piglets.
Dr. Chengbo Yang, Professor in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Manitoba, is leading a collaborative research project exploring integrated strategies to minimize the use of antimicrobials in treating infections and enhancing the health of weaned piglets.
Weaning is a challenging phase for piglets, as they transition from their mothers’ care and shift from milk to solid food. During this period, their digestive and immune systems are still maturing, which often leads to reduced feed intake, digestive issues, and increased vulnerability to diseases like enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Streptococcus suis (S. suis). This project is developing an integrated approach to replace antimicrobials in weaned piglets by using bacteriophages targeting E. coli and S. suis infections, along with probiotics, and functional amino acids to improve gut health and overall piglet performance.
This project aligns with the Canadian pork sector's commitment to developing innovative and effective methods to improve pig health while reducing or eliminating dependence on antimicrobials.
“If we can develop a tool against infections in the gut as well as the respiratory tract, we can enhance piglet health, reduce post-weaning mortality, and achieve significant savings for the industry.”
-Dr. Chengbo Yang, University of Manitoba
To find out more about this research project, take a look at the fact sheet: https://bit.ly/4dM7DDj