The newly discovered gut peptide, Glucagon-Like Peptide 2 (GLP-2) has a dramatic growth-stimulating effect on the small intestine. There are good perspectives in using this hormone to understand and treat intestinal adaptation in newborn infants. Studies in piglets show some exciting new potentials.

An optimal maturation of the small intestine is required to secure adequate nutrition after birth. This maturation is controlled by glucocorticoid hormones that stimulate organ maturation around birth in both humans and animals. How can we best use this information to improve neonatal survival?

5-10% of all infants are born preterm. A large proportion of these have nutritional problems and an immature digestive system. Diet (mother´s milk, milk replacer), mode of nutrition (parenteral nutrition, enteral nutrition), bacterial colonization and immature immunity all play a role. Studies in preterm piglets show exciting new results that may help to understand and solve the problems.

At the time of birth, more dramatic changes occur in body functions than at any other time of life. The small intestine is invaded by microorganisms and quickly it must adapt to large volumes of mother´s milk. Not surprizingly, digestive problems are common observations just after birth. There are several possible ways to understand and eliminate these problems. 

Fiber is good stuff for the gastrointestinal tract - but why? Good bacteria and bad bacteria? Diet is particularly important in early life when intestinal functions are immature, bacterial colonization unbalanced, and the immune system is immature. Studies in piglets give some new insights.

Mother´s milk is good - but why? Particularly the very first milk (colostrum) has been shown to be crucial for maturation and protection of the developing small intestine. Colostrum from another species could potentially be used not only for calves but also to support sensitive intestines in pigs and infants?

The first in vitro-fertilized children and calves were born several decades ago. Since then, cloning has been implemented as another new reproductive technology. How did it go? Is survival related to cortisol? What is the future for production of such newborns? Is it scientifically and ethically justifyable to use advanced reproductive technologies?

It is well-known that diets rich in fiber are beneficial for the digestive system. They may protect against gut diseases such as cancer and colitis - but why? Is it because the fiber diet changes the gut microflora and immune system? Are certain hormones involved? Studies in pigs give some new ideas.