PIG-PARADIGM at the halfway mark - progress and future Impact

We're meeting Charlotte Lauridsen, coordinator of PIG-PARADIGM, at their annual gathering at Konventum in Helsingør, northern Zealand, where she will share her insights and reflections on the event. The day is gorgeous, and the crystal-clear views across the Øresund Strait are simply breathtaking.

As we stand at the halfway point, what lessons have been learned that will guide the next phase of PIG-PARADIGM?

We are now at the halfway point of this ambitious project. It is truly inspiring to witness the dedication of so many early-career scientists, PhD students, and postdocs from diverse backgrounds coming together to collaborate. Their expertise and fresh perspectives are instrumental in addressing complex challenges, fostering productive discussions, and driving meaningful progress.

We are also fortunate to have active participation from representatives of both our scientific and industrial advisory boards. Their insights are invaluable, ensuring a strong link between research and practical applications. Their contributions enrich our conversations, helping us bridge the gap between scientific innovation and industry needs while strengthening collaboration across sectors.

The progress of PIG-PARADIGM has been remarkable. We are generating an exceptional number of new findings related to the microbiome, nutrition, and the host—specifically, the pig. These discoveries hold great potential to make a real difference in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on a global scale. Our research has already yielded some promising solutions, providing new strategies and interventions that can drive change in collaboration with industrial partners. By enhancing the robustness of pigs through dietary and management interventions, we can work towards reducing the use of antibiotics while improving animal health.

Paving the path ahead

Moreover, our findings underscore the importance of understanding individual variability, which is highly relevant in the common pig production system- offering deeper insights that will shape future initiatives. PIG-PARADIGM is paving the way for subsequent research projects, not only within our international consortium but also in other regions with a vested interest in minimizing AMR. 

In many ways, this initiative serves as a pilot for even larger endeavors that will further advance sustainable solutions in animal health and antibiotic reduction worldwide.