The hidden power of blood: How hematological traits can transform pig production

Jiahong Sun is a PhD student at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Animal Genetics and Breeding, as well as Bioinformatics. Currently, Jiahong is engaged in the Host Pillar of the PIG-PARADIGM project. Her primary task involves the identification of host factors, including resilience endophenotypes. One of the most critical endophenotypes under investigation is the hematological traits, also referred to as blood parameters. These parameters are essential as they reflect the physiological and health status of pigs and serve as biomarkers to describe both pathological and sub-pathological conditions.

The white blood parameters, in particular, play a significant role in resistance and overall pig health, which in turn can enhance pig production and economic viability. Despite their importance, most pig studies have predominantly focused on economic stress and feed efficiency, with minimal attention given to blood parameters. Therefore, Jiahong's goal is to uncover the causal relationships between hematological traits and diarrhea alongside clinical traits. She also plans to integrate genome data and clinical data into his research.

Jiahong emphasizes the need for greater attention to hematological traits in the context of pig health and production. To achieve this objective, he will first conduct a comprehensive review of hematological traits. Following this, she will utilize genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify the genetic factors influencing these traits. Finally, she will employ Mendelian Randomization analysis to verify these causal relationships. Through this meticulous approach, Jiahong aims to advance the understanding and application of hematological traits in improving pig health and productivity.