Targeted Metabolomics Profile Sow Milk Components using ultra performance liquid chromatograph-tandem mass spectrometry

Significance of the Topic

The composition and functionality of sow milk are critical for the growth and health of piglets. Targeted metabolomic profiling of milk at different lactation stages provides insights into nutrient availability, physiological status of the dam and potential biomarkers for lactation performance. This information supports improvements in animal husbandry, nutritional strategies and overall swine production efficiency.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study aimed to characterize small- and medium-molecular metabolites in colostrum and mature milk of sows with high and low lactation performance. Using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, researchers quantified 58 primary metabolites across six time points (D0, D3, D5, D7, D14, D21). Comparative analysis identified differential compounds associated with milk quality and lactation dynamics.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample Preparation and Analysis

• Milk samples (300 µL) spiked with internal standard (MES), protein-precipitated with acetonitrile, centrifuged and supernatants analyzed.
• Six time points covering early to late lactation and separate groups for high vs. low performance sows.

Instrumentation Used

• Shimadzu UPLC system (LC-30A) with PFPP column (2.0 mm I.D. × 150 mm, 3 µm).
• Mobile phases: 0.1% formic acid in water (A) and acetonitrile (B).
• Shimadzu LCMS-8050 triple quadrupole MS with ESI in MRM mode; interface 300 °C, DL 250 °C, heating block 400 °C; nebulizing 3 L/min, drying 10 L/min, heating 10 L/min.

Main Results and Discussion

Time-Course Metabolic Changes

• PLS-DA showed clear separation of colostrum (D0) and late lactation (D14, D21); mid-lactation days exhibited transitional clustering.
• Metabolite levels stabilized around day 6–7, indicating steady nutrient output.

Performance Group Comparisons

• Colostrum and mature milk from high vs. low lactation sows displayed distinct metabolite profiles.
• Amino acids (arginine, proline, alanine, aspartate, glutamate) and derivatives (creatine, citrulline) were higher in high performance group.

Pathway Analysis

• Differential metabolites mapped to amino acid metabolism (arginine and proline metabolism, glycine/serine/threonine, alanine/aspartate/glutamate).
• Functional roles include intestinal development, cell proliferation, immune regulation and muscle formation.

Benefits and Practical Applications of the Method

• Allows monitoring of milk nutrient composition throughout lactation.
• Identifies potential biomarkers for selecting sows with superior lactation performance.
• Supports formulation of targeted nutritional supplements to enhance piglet growth and health.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Integration with genomics and proteomics will refine understanding of lactation physiology. Advances in high-throughput metabolomics and data analysis may enable real-time monitoring of milk composition on farms. Personalized feeding strategies for sows and piglets based on metabolic profiles could optimize production outcomes and animal welfare.

Conclusion

Targeted metabolomic profiling using UPLC-MS/MS revealed dynamic changes in sow milk metabolites and identified key amino acids linked to lactation performance. These findings provide a foundation for biomarker-driven selection and nutritional interventions to improve piglet growth and swine herd productivity.

Reference

Shen L., Zhai Z., Zhong Q., Hao H., Huang T. Targeted Metabolomics Profile of Sow Milk Components Using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Shimadzu (China) Co., Ltd; South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.