Stimulation of granulopoiesis in pregnant swine and their offspring by Propionibacterium avidum KP-40.

Functional parameters of granulopoiesis were measured in gilts, in pregnant sows and in their offspring. Groups of dams and piglets were injected with a potent immunomodulator--killed lyophilized Propionibacterium avidum KP-40 (PA). Administration of PA (0.1 mg/kg body wt for sows and 0.2 mg/kg body wt for piglets) resulted in significant stimulation of all measured parameters of granulopoiesis as well as in a faster gain of body weight. PA stimulation of sows prior to farrowing had no measurable influence on the development of their offspring.