Betaine increases portal appearance of amino acids and peptides in Iberian pigs

摘要

The aim of this work was to determine portal concentration of amino peptides (PAA) and free amino acids (FAA) in Iberian pigs fed betaine supplemented diets. Eight 30 kg BW Iberian barrows were randomly assigned to two diets (control or supplemented with 0.5% betaine) and fitted with a chronic catheter in the portal vein. Blood samples were periodically taken from the portal vein for 180 min after feeding 1,200 g of the diet and plasma was stored at -20 °C until analyzed for FAA and PAA. Overall, betaine supplementation increased portal concentration of essential (EAA) and non-essential (NEAA) amino acids (AA) as PAA and FAA, the former representing the greatest proportion. In conclusion, increased EAA concentration in the portal vein after betainesupplementation is consistent with a greater AA supply to liver and peripheral tissues.