Contribution of Bioactive Compounds Administered to Sows and Piglets to the Maturation of the Porcine Gastrointestinal Tract

The project aims to evaluate innovative nutritional strategies based on functional nutrients and bioactive compounds to promote gastrointestinal, immune, and microbial maturation in piglets from gestation through weaning. Particular emphasis will be placed on preparing piglets to cope with the physiological and environmental challenges of weaning by implementing nutritional interventions in both sows during gestation and lactation and piglets after birth. The researcher will conduct a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines, support the organization and management of animal trials, collect and process biological samples, and perform molecular, immunological, and microbiological analyses. The activities will also include statistical analysis using R/RStudio, management and interpretation of 16S rRNA metagenomic data, and dissemination of results through scientific meetings, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications.