New EUROSTARS project approved: Improved phosphorus utilisation and increased bone stability in pigs

Together with the Swiss company SUISAG, which offers genetics for responsible and successful pig farming, and the medical technology company PoroUS GmbH, the FBN is launching the innovative project ‘Improved phosphorus utilisation and increased bone stability in pigs’ (PigBoneS).

The aim of the project is to select and breed pigs with optimised phosphorus utilisation and simultaneously increased bone stability. The latter is made possible by the non-invasive POROUS 3D ultrasound method, which ensures the precise measure-ment of bone density and stability. The identification of rele-vant genetic markers forms the basis for a new advanced breeding programme aimed at achieving significant progress in animal health and the environmental impact of animal husbandry.

Positive effects of optimised phosphorus use

The project has many positive implications: Optimised phosphorus utilisation can lead to better bone development and stability, which promotes the general well-being and growth of the animals. The POROUS method provides an important diag-nostic basis for assessing bone health. Dr Julia Eschenbrenner from POROUS comments: ‘We are very happy to start this project with two strong innovative partners. For POROUS, the project offers the opportunity to expand the scope of our technology. We look forward to making a contribution to animal welfare and environmental protection.’ Prof Kay Raum's Imaging, Simulation and Stimulation group at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin is also involved in carrying out microstructure analyses and numerical sound propagation simulations in bone. The approach to improving pig health also effectively addresses the problem of leg weakness in fast-growing animals in modern housing systems.

PigBoneS combines environmental protection and economic efficiency

In addition, more efficient phosphorus utilisation reduces phosphorus excretion via manure and thus the environmental impact of animal husbandry. This emphasises that nutrient efficiency, environmental protection and sustainable farming practices are linked. By focussing on improving phosphorus utilisation, we are working to-wards more environmentally friendly and sustainable food production.

Responsible, sustainable livestock farming is an indispensable part of today's agriculture and bioeconomy as well as an important aspect of resource cycles. The Eurostars project ‘Improved phosphorus utilisation and increased bone stability in pigs’ is helping to achieve these goals.

The project was approved as part of the Eureka Eurostars network programme and started on 1 June 2024. The network programme promotes cross-border innovation projects and is supported and funded by the BMBF in Germany and Innosuisse in Switzerland

Wissenschaftlicher Ansprechpartner:
Dr. Henry Reyer
reyer@fbn-dummerstorf.de

Dr. Michael Oster
oster@fbn-dummerstorf.de

Weitere Informationen:
https://www.fbn-dummerstorf.de/en/research/projects/0096/