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Iberian pig production has undergone a major intensification, with a model similar to commercial breeds. However, the Iberian pig uterine capacity is more limited than in other breeds, which implies higher numbers of intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weights.
Thus, my thesis has investigated at both phenotypic and genotypic levels the implications of the intrauterine development of the piglets in the postnatal growth. Substances such as omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols in the forms of linseed oil and hydroxytyrosol were also studied due to its possible benefits in fetal development.
Comparison of pure Iberian pigs (IBxIB) and crossbreds with Large White (IBxLW) gestated in the same Iberian mothers showed differences at the phenotypic and transcriptomic levels. IBxIB piglets were smaller and had higher fat content and cholesterol and triglycerides than IBxLW pigs. There was an important sex effect, with differences being higher between males. These results were similar at the transcriptomic level, with differentially expressed genes between genotypes related to oxidative phosphorylation or muscular development, which showed a genotype*sex interaction.
Maternal supplementation with linseed oil and hydroxytyrosol in undernourished sows was also studied. Fetuses from supplemented mothers showed lower weight and size and those from control sows. However, supplemented piglets showed better growths and metabolic profile than control piglets.
Thus, without prenatal effects, differences between pure and crossbred Iberian piglets were determined by their genotype and sex. Furthermore, substances such as linseed oil and hydroxytyrosol shows possible beneficial effects when used in compromised gestations.
