Before LPS challenge, pro-inflammatory cytokines (i.e., IL-1 β, IL-6
and INF-γ) and haptoglobin concentrations were low or undetectable and did not differ between groups. These results suggest that
the pigs were in good health and of similar immune status. Therefore, any subsequent differences in performance, rectal temperature or blood parameters comparing TN and HT groups before the
LPS challenge were most likely associated with an effect of Ta.