Kim, W. G. | bioRxiv Science

bioRxiv2025

Field evaluation of non-invasive sampling for monitoring nine swine pathogens in the Republic of Korea

BackgroundNon-invasive sampling methods, such as swine oral fluid (OF) and fecal boot (FB) sampling, have gained attention due to their animal welfare considerations, ease of collection, and cost effectiveness. However, comparative data regarding non-invasive and standard sampling methods remain limited, particularly in the Republic of Korea, where research on OF and FB sampling is sparse. Therefore, we investigated representative pig pathogens, including six porcine respiratory pathogens and three gastrointestinal pathogens, using OF and FB samples for pathogen surveillance across commercial farms in the Republic of Korea. MethodsThe results from targeted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for major respiratory and gastrointestinal pathogens obtained using OF and FB samples were compared with those obtained from standard samples. Non-invasive samples included 30 OF ropes and 30 FBs collected from nine farms, and 360 standard samples (blood, fecal, oral, and nasal swabs) were also collected. PCR assays for the nine pathogens were conducted, and the results from OF, FB, and combined OF+FB were compared with those from standard samples at the pen level. ResultsOF sampling showed superior test concordance with respiratory pathogens than gastrointestinal pathogens, and FB sampling demonstrated superior detection of gastrointestinal pathogens compared with OF sampling. Additionally, the combination of OF+FB sampling improved the detection concordance for all nine target pathogens investigated. ConclusionsWe demonstrated the feasibility and potential applicability of OF and FB sampling under field conditions in Korean pig farms. Therefore, this study supports OF and FB sampling as useful tools for swine pathogen monitoring in both research and practical field applications.

microbiology↗

bioRxiv2024

Establishment of age-specific intervals based on the hematological and immunological parameters of commercial pigs in the Republic of Korea

Health monitoring based on hematological and immunological parameters is crucial for optimizing performance in the swine industry. This study was conducted to address the lack of comprehensive reports on these parameters in commercial pigs in the Republic of Korea (ROK). To fill this gap, blood samples from 764 healthy pigs across 32 farms in the ROK were analyzed, with the pigs categorized into specific age groups, including weaners, growers, finishers, gilts, and sows. Complete blood counts (CBC) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations were measured, revealing significant differences across all age groups (p<0.0001). These findings allowed us to establish age-specific Reference Intervals (RIs) at a 95% confidence level and Confidence Intervals (CIs) at a 90% confidence level for each group. This study provides robust guidelines for evaluating the health status of commercial pigs at different stages of growth and development in the ROK. The established RIs and CIs offer valuable insights for future research and practical applications, ensuring reliable health assessments. Routine monitoring of these parameters represents a critical tool for early detection and improved health management in commercial pig populations.

immunology↗