Alterations in the Blood Parameters and Fecal Microbiota and Metabolites of Pregnant and Lactating Sows

The gut microbiota is highly associated with host physiological and metabolic changes during pregnancy and lactation. This study was conducted to analyze plasma reproductive hormone and biochemical parameter changes, as well as fecal microbiota composition and metabolites in sows, at different gestation and lactation stages, using Bama-mini pig as an experimental animal model. Collectively, maternal plasma reproductive hormones, biochemical parameters, and fecal microbiota composition and metabolite levels could vary along with pregnancy and lactation, which might contribute to the growth demands of fetuses and newborns.