# Effects of Stems and Leaves of Panax notoginseng on mRNA Expression of TLR Signaling Pathway in Hepatic Tissue of Duzang Pigs

## TL;DR

This study shows how adding Panax notoginseng stems and leaves to pig diets affects liver immune-related gene activity.

## Contribution

The study reveals how varying levels of PNSLs influence specific TLR signaling pathway genes in pig liver tissue.

## Key findings

- 10% and 20% PNSLs increased mRNA levels of TLR3, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TRIF, IL-10, IFN-α, and IFN-β.
- PNSLs decreased mRNA levels of TLR5, TLR9, TNF-α, and IL-1β in Duzang pigs.
- TLR2 and IL-6 expression remained unaffected by PNSL inclusion.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Panax notoginseng stems and leaves (PNSLs) have shown limited adoption as a forage component in commercial livestock operations due to low utilization rates. Methods: This study was designed to add 10% and 20% PNSLs in the diet of Duzang pigs. Hepatic tissues were collected to investigate the expression levels of Toll-like receptor (TLR), MyD88, TRIF genes, and downstream cytokines within the TLR signaling pathway. Results: 10% and 20% PNSLs in the diet significantly up-regulated mRNA expression levels of TLR3, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TRIF, IL-10, IFN-α and IFN-β, while they down-regulated TLR5, TLR9, TNF-α and IL-1β in Duzang pigs. No significant effects were observed on the expression of TLR2 and IL-6. Conclusions: Different amounts of PNSLs modulated the TLR signaling pathway mRNA expression levels in the hepatic tissues of Duzang pigs.