Biochemical Effects of Natural and Nanoparticle Fish and Algal Oils in Gilt Pregnancy Diets on Base Excision Repair Enzymes in Newborn Piglets—Socioeconomic Implications for Regional Pig Farming—Preliminary Results

TL;DR

This study explores how adding fish and algal oils to pregnant pigs' diets affects DNA repair enzymes in newborn piglets, suggesting potential benefits for genomic stability and growth.

Contribution

The study introduces the effect of natural and nanoparticle forms of n-3 PUFAs on BER enzyme activity in piglets, linking maternal diet to offspring genomic integrity.

Findings

Maternal supplementation with n-3 PUFAs reduced BER capacity in piglet livers by 32%.

mRNA expression of BER genes (TDG, MPG, OGG1) decreased in piglets from supplemented gilts.

Natural oil forms showed greater effectiveness than nanoparticle formulations in improving DNA integrity.

Abstract

Base excision repair (BER) is an important mechanism for maintaining genomic integrity and preventing DNA damage and mutations induced by oxidative stress. This study aimed to examine the relationship between oxidative stress and BER activity in newborn piglets by supplementing their mothers’ diets during pregnancy with long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) from algal and fish oils, provided either in natural form or as nanoparticles. BER enzyme activity was assessed using a nicking assay, and their gene expression levels by RT-qPCR in the livers of pregnant gilts and their offspring. Preliminary results indicated that maternal supplementation with oils rich in long-chain n-3 PUFAs significantly reduced (by 32%) BER capacity in the livers of their offspring. A corresponding decrease in mRNA expression of BER genes (TDG, MPG, OGG1) was observed in piglets from gilts receiving fish and algal oil supplements. Maternal supplementation with long-chain n-3 PUFAs may protect foetuses and neonates against oxidative stress, reducing DNA damage and enhancing genomic stability, which could positively influence early postnatal growth. The observed reduction in BER enzyme activity in newborn piglets likely reflected improved DNA integrity, and natural oil forms appeared more effective than their nanoparticle formulations. Disparities in socioeconomic areas related to access to functional foods with health-promoting properties highlight the importance of targeted strategies that integrate local systems and promote nutritional equity.

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