Regulation of nitrogen salvage in non-ruminants

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Pigs and other non-ruminant animals are capable of salvaging nitrogen through the process of urea recycling and subsequent microbial amino acid production in the gastrointestinal tract. However, the regulatory mechanisms for urea recycling into the gut and the factors (e.g., dietary, physiological) influencing the extent of urea recycling and subsequent nitrogen utilization are not well understood. In the ruminant, it has been shown that urea transport into the rumen is due, in part, to facilitative urea transporters (UT-B and aquaporins) in addition to non-specific paracellular movement. Dietary factors, such as fibre and protein intake, may influence nitrogen salvage through altering the gut environment and changes in nutrient supply to the animal and resident microbes.