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<li>Evaluate the effects of stress on pathogen shedding in pigs by comparing test animal groups that are exposed to stress (CRF) and a food-borne pathogen as compared to control groups exposed only to a Salmonella.</li>
<li>Evaluate the effects of Astressin on pigs using test animal populations exposed to pathogens and Astressin as compared to control groups exposed to Salmonella, but not Astressin.</li>
<li>Evaluate the effects of combining CRF and Astressin on test animal populations exposed to pathogens as compared to control groups exposed to Salmonella and CRF only.</li>
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<p>Following the surgical recovery period, pigs will receive either saline (control) or experimental drug (150 micrograms porcine corticotropin releasing hormone pCRF, Asstressin obtained from Sigma Chemical Co. or a combination of the two via icv cannula). Microbial challenge is initiated in experimental and control groups of piglets. Saline or experimental drug is then administered (150 micro liters) to control and test groups respectively, followed by 350 micro liters sterile saline to account for dead space in the cannula. Fecal and blood samples will be obtained at determined intervals following treatments and analyzed quantitatively for pathogens, immune factors, and stress factors.</p>