Maintenance of villus height and crypt depth, and enhancement of disaccharide digestion and monosaccharide absorption, in piglets fed on cows' whole milk after weaning

Dietary rutin improves the antidiarrheal capacity of weaned piglets by improving intestinal barrier function, antioxidant capacity and cecal microbiota composition

BACKGROUND

Early weaning is prone to damage intestinal barrier function, resulting in diarrhea, whereas rutin, as a natural flavonoid with multiple biological functions, shows potential in piglets. Therefore, the effects of dietary rutin on growth, antidiarrheal, barrier function, antioxidant status and cecal microbiota of weaned piglets were investigated with the control group (CON) (basal diet) and Rutin (basal diet+500 mg kg-1 rutin) groups fed for 14 days.

RESULTS

The results showed that dietary 500 mg kg-1 rutin significantly decreased diarrhea index, serum diamine oxidase activity and total aerobic bacterial population in mesenteric lymph nodes, whereas it significantly increased the gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) and serum growth hormone content, jejunal villus height and villus height to crypt depth ratio, and also enhanced jejunal claudin-1 and zonula occludens-1 mRNA and protein expression. Meanwhile, dietary rutin significantly decreased inflammation-associated mRNA expression, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, swollen mitochondrial number and mitochondrial area in the jejunum, whereas it increased the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione peroxidase activities and activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Moreover, dietary rutin significantly increased Firmicutes abundance and decreased Campylobacterota abundance, which were closely associated with the decreased diarrhea index and MDA content or increased Claudin-1 expression and T-SOD activity.

CONCLUSION

Dietary 500 mg kg-1 rutin increased G:F by improving intestinal morphology, and alleviated diarrhea by enhancing intestinal barrier, which might be associated with the enhanced antioxidant capacity via activating the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway and the improved cecal microbial composition in weaned piglets. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Commensal Bacillus pumilus SE5-Derived Peptidoglycan and Lipoteichoic Acid Showed Synergistic Effects in Improving Growth, Immunity, and Intestinal Health of Grouper (Epinephelus coioides)

Commensal-derived peptidoglycan (PG) or lipoteichoic acid (LTA) can improve the growth, immunity, and intestinal health of fish, but it is not clear whether the two components have synergistic effects. To clarify this, grouper (Epinephelus coioides) was fed basal diet (CG) or diets containing 1.0 × 108 CFU/g heat-inactivated SE5 (HIB), PG (21.30 mg/kg), LTA (6.70 mg/kg), mixture (PL1) of PG (10.65 mg/kg) and LTA (3.35 mg/kg), and mixture (PL2) of PG (21.30 mg/kg) and LTA (6.70 mg/kg). Improved growth performance and feed utilization were observed in groups PG, LTA, PL1, and PL2, and the optimum growth performance was recorded in group PL1. Furthermore, improved serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activity and immunoglobulin M (IgM) and complement C3 (C3) contents were observed in all treatments, and the AKP activity in group PL1 was significantly superior to that of groups PG and LTA. Although PG and LTA alone or in combination exert comparable effects on intestinal microbiota and physical structure, obviously enhanced intestinal protease activity was observed in group PL1. The combined efficacy of PL1 could further potentiate the immune response by modulating the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 2 (NOD2) and upregulating the expression of antimicrobial peptides (epinecidin-1, hepcidin-1, and β-defensin) as well as IgM. At the same time, group PL1 could further mitigate intestinal inflammation by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and upregulating anti-inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, probiotic B. pumilus SE5-derived PG and LTA mixture (10.65 mg/kg PG and 3.35 mg/kg LTA) exhibits better potential for improving the growth performance, intestinal health, and immune function compared to another mixture (21.30 mg/kg PG and 6.70 mg/kg LTA) and PG or LTA alone in grouper.

Feeding during the resting phase causes gastrointestinal tract dysfunction and desynchronization of metabolic and neuronal rhythms in rats

BACKGROUND

Disrupted circadian rhythms may result from a misalignment between the environmental cycles (due to shift work, sleep restriction, feeding at an unusual time of day) and endogenous rhythms or by physiological aging. Among the numerous adverse effects, disrupted rhythms affect the brain-gut axis, contributing to the pathogenesis of several diseases in the gastrointestinal tract, for example, abdominal pain, constipation, gastric dyspepsia, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and others.

METHODS

This study evaluated the rat gastric emptying, gastrointestinal motility, a clock gene, gut hormones, and the neuron activity on the nucleus of tractus solitarius (NTS), area postrema (AP), and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) in rats with restricted food access to the rest phase for 4 weeks.

KEY RESULTS

Our results show that food restricted to the rest light period disturbed the expression pattern of a series of transcripts, including metabolic and circadian regulation. Also, the secretion of gastrointestinal hormones, gastric emptying, intestinal motility, and NTS, AP, and DMV activity were altered.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

These data indicate the importance of the time of the day food is ingested on the regulation of energy balance and the endocrine activity of the stomach and small intestine, emphasizing the importance of food as a powerful circadian synchronizer and an essential factor for the triggering of gastrointestinal diseases and metabolic problems. These findings offer a novel clue regarding the obesity-promoting effect attributed to feeding time and open the possibility of treating this and other intestinal disorders.

Influence of Cordyceps militaris-fermented grain substrate extracts on alleviating food allergy in mice

Background

Cordyceps militaris is recognized as a tonic in traditional Chinese medicine, and there have been documented findings on the anti-allergic properties of its extract derived from the fruiting body. Due to the limited availability of wild C. militaris, a specialized grain substrate has been devised for the solid-state fermentation of its fruiting bodies. However, the fermented grain substrate is considered waste and usually used as feeds for animals. To achieve the sustainable development goals, C. militaris-fermented grain substrate (CFGS) was collected to prepare CFGS extracts. Further, the anti-allergic properties of these extracts were assessed with the aim of exploring novel applications.

Methods

The water extract and ethanol extract of CFGS were prepared, and their potential in alleviating allergic enteritis was assessed in mice with food allergy. Assessment of immunomodulatory effects included the measurement of serum antibodies and splenic cytokines. Additionally, influence of extracts on gut microbiota composition was examined through sequencing analysis of 16S rRNA gene from freshly collected feces of the mice.

Results

Daily administration of the water and ethanol extracts, at doses of 50 or 250 mg/kg body weight, demonstrated a notable alleviation of allergic diarrhea and enteritis. This was accompanied by a decrease in mast cell infiltration in the duodenum and a reduction in allergen-specific IgE production in the serum. Both extracts led to a significant decrease in IL-4 secretion. Conversely, there was an increase in IFN-γ, IL-10, and TGF-β secretion from splenocytes. Remarkably, allergic mice exhibited a distinct fecal microbiota profile compared to that of normal mice. Intriguingly, the administration of these extracts had varying effects on the fecal microbiota.

Conclusion

Taken together, these findings collectively indicate the potential of CFGS extracts as promising candidates for functional foods. These extracts show promise in managing allergic enteritis and modulating gut microbiota.

Effect of fermented rapeseed meal on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health in growing pigs

To explore the effects of fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) on growth performance and intestinal health, a total of 30 growing pigs were randomly allotted to three treatments consisting of corn-soybean meal diet (CSD), rapeseed meal diet (RSD), and fermented rapeseed meal diet (FRSD). Results showed that compared with RSD, FRSD feeding increased the average daily gain and final body weight in pigs (P < 0.01). Compared with RSD feeding, FRSD feeding elevated the apparent digestibility of crude protein, acid detergent fiber, and ether extract in pigs (P < 0.01). Moreover, the FRSD group exhibited greater apparent ileal digestibility of His, Thr, Lys, and Ser than the RSD group (P < 0.01). The digestible energy, metabolic energy, and nitrogen utilization were higher in the FRSD and CSD groups than in the RSD group (P < 0.01). As compared to the RSD, FRSD feeding decreased the serum concentration of leptin but significantly increased the concentrations of immunoglobulin (Ig) A, IgG, ghrelin, and enzyme activities of amylase, lipase, and trypsin in the pancreas (P < 0.05). Interestingly, the villus height, the ratio of villus height to crypt depth, and the activities of brush border enzymes (e.g., maltase and sucrase) in the small intestine were higher in the CSD and FRSD groups than in the RSD group (P < 0.05). As compared to the RSD, the FRSD feeding not only increased the expression level of the occludin in the small intestinal epithelium (P < 0.05) but also elevated the expression levels of claudin-1, MUC1, and PepT1 genes in the duodenum, and elevated the expression levels of SGLT1 and CAT1 genes in the jejunum (P < 0.05). Importantly, FRSD feeding significantly decreased the abundance of Escherichia coli, but increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and the content of butyrate in the cecum and colon (P < 0.05). These results indicated that compared with rapeseed meal, fermented rapeseed meal exhibited a positive effect on improving the growth performance and intestinal health in growing pigs, and the results may also help develop novel protein sources for animal nutrition and the feed industry.

Improvement in growth performance and digestive function from amniotic injections of N-acetylglutamate in broiler chickens

BACKGROUND

N-acetylglutamate (NAG) is the initial and essectial substrate in the process of de novo arginine synthesis, plays an important role in intestinal development. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of in ovo feeding of NAG, 1.5 mg/egg at 17.5 days of incubation (DOI) via amnion, on hatching performance, early intestinal histomorphometry, jejunal barrier, digestive function, and growth performance of broiler chickens between 1 and 14 days of age.

RESULTS

Amniotic injection of NAG had no significant effect on hatching characteristics compared with the non-injected control group (NC group). Birds in the NAG solution-injected group (NAG group) exhibited lower average daily feed intake and better feed efficiency during a period of 1-14 days. In comparison with the NC group, the NAG group had decreased crypt depth (CD) in the ileum and increased villus height (VH) / CD in the jejunum at 7 days, and decreased CD in duodenum and significantly increased VH in the jejunum at 14 days. However, the effects of in ovo supplementation with NAG on the density of goblet cells, and gene expression of mucin 2 and alkaline phosphatase were not significant. Chicks in the NAG group had a significantly higher mRNA expression level of trypsin and maltase in jejunum at 7 days than the NC group but not at 14 days.

CONCLUSION

Amniotic injections of NAG (1.5 mg/egg) at 17.5 DOI could improve early growth performance of broilers during 1-14 days after hatching by accelerating the development of the intestine and enhancing jejunal digestive function. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Partial Substitution of Whey Protein Concentrate with Spray-Dried Porcine Plasma or Soy Protein Isolate in Milk Replacer Differentially Modulates Ileal Morphology, Nutrient Digestion, Immunity and Intestinal Microbiota of Neonatal Piglets

Appropriate protein sources are vital for the growth, development and health of neonates. Twenty-four 2-day-old piglets were randomly divided into three groups and fed isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets. The experimental diets included a milk replacer with 17.70% whey protein concentrate (WPC group), a milk replacer with 6% spray-dried porcine plasma isonitrogenously substituting WPC (SDPP group), and a milk replacer with 5.13% soy protein isolate isonitrogenously substituting WPC (SPI group). Neonatal piglets were fed milk replacer from postnatal day 2 (PND 2) to day 20 (PND 20). The growth performance, intestinal morphology, activities of digestive enzymes, plasma biochemical parameters, immunity-related genes, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and intestinal microbiota in the colonic chyme were determined. The results showed that SDPP-fed piglets had higher final BW (p = 0.05), ADG (p = 0.05) and F/G (p = 0.07) compared with WPC- and SPI-fed piglets, and SDPP-fed piglets had a lower diarrhea index (p < 0.01) from PND 2 to PND 8. SDPP-fed piglets had an increased ileal villus height (p = 0.04) and ratio of villus height to crypt depth (VCR) (p = 0.02), and increased activities of sucrase (p < 0.01), lactase (p = 0.02) and trypsin (p = 0.08) in the jejunum, compared with WPC- and SPI-fed piglets. Furthermore, SPI-fed piglets had an increased mRNA expression of IL-6 (p < 0.01) and concentration of plasma urea (p = 0.08). The results from LEfSe analysis showed that SDPP-fed piglets had a higher abundance of beneficial Butyricicoccus compared with WPC- and SPI-fed piglets, in which higher abundances of pathogenic bacteria such as Marinifilaceae, Fusobacterium and Enterococcus were observed. Moreover, SDPP-fed piglets had an increased concentration of butyric acid (p = 0.08) in the colonic chyme compared with WPC- and SPI-fed piglets. These results suggest that neonatal piglets fed milk replacer with SDPP partially substituting WPC had improved growth performance and intestinal morphology and function, associated with higher digestive enzyme activity and fewer pathogenic bacteria.

Magnolol Supplementation Alters Serum Parameters, Immune Homeostasis, Amino Acid Profiles, and Gene Expression of Amino Acid Transporters in Growing Pigs

This study investigated whether dietary supplementation with magnolol affects growth performance, anti-inflammatory abilities, serum and muscle amino acid profiles, and metabolisms in growing pigs. A total of 42 seventy-days-old growing barrows (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) were randomly allocated into two dietary groups: Con, control group (basal diet); and Mag, magnolol group (basal diet supplemented with 400 mg/kg of magnolol). The results revealed that dietary supplementation with magnolol had no effect (p > 0.05) on growth performance. However, magnolol supplementation remarkably increased (p < 0.05) the serum content of albumin, total protein, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin M, and interleukin-22. In addition, dietary magnolol supplementation altered the amino acid (AA) profiles in serum and dorsal muscle and particularly increased (p < 0.05) the serum content of arginine and muscle glutamate. Simultaneously, the mRNA expression of genes associated with AA transport in jejunum (SLC38A2, SLC1A5, and SLC7A1) and ileum (SLC1A5 and SLC7A1) was higher (p < 0.05) in the Mag group than in the Con group. Additionally, the serum metabolomics analysis showed that the addition of magnolol significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) arginine biosynthesis, as well as D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism. Overall, these results suggested that dietary supplementation with magnolol has the potential to improve the accumulation of AAs, protein synthesis, immunity, and body health in growing pigs by increasing intestinal absorption and the transport of AAs.

Functional Characterization and Toxicological Study of Proanthocyanidins in Weaned Pigs

Proanthocyanidin (PRO) has been implicated in a variety of biological functions, such as antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-obesity effects. However, little is known about its safety dose for animals. To explore its safety and effect on growth performance and intestinal health, thirty weaned pigs were divided into five groups and fed with basal diet containing 0, 30, 300, 600, and 1200 mg/kg PRO for 42 days. Results showed that PRO supplementation at 30 and 300 mg/kg significantly decreased the feed/gain ratio (F:G) and diarrhea rate (p < 0.05). PRO also increased the digestibilities of dry matter, ether extract, gross energy, and ash (p < 0.05). Interestingly, PRO not only elevated the villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V/C) in duodenum and jejunum (p < 0.01), but also decreased the crypt depth in the duodenum (p < 0.01). Moreover, PRO supplementation at 30, 300, and 600 mg/kg elevated the expression levels of mucin 1 (MUC1), MUC2, and fatty acid transport protein 1 (FATP-1) in the duodenum (p < 0.05). The expression levels of FATP-4 in jejunum and ileum were also elevated by PRO (p < 0.05). Importantly, histopathological findings of tissues (e.g., heart, liver, kidney, spleen, lungs, pancreas, thymus, mesenteric lymph nodes, stomach, small intestine), serum clinical chemistry, and major hematological parameters were not affected by PRO supplementation. These results suggest that PRO may act as a safe and effective supplement to decrease F:G and improve intestinal health in weaned pigs.

Effect of small peptide chelated iron on growth performance, immunity and intestinal health in weaned pigs

BACKGROUND

Small peptide chelated iron (SPCI), a novel iron supplementation in pig diets, owns growth-enhancing characteristics. Although a number of researches have been performed, there is no clear-cut evidence to show the exact relationship between the dose and effects of small peptide chelated minerals. Therefore, we investigated the effect of dietary supplementation of SPCI at different doses in the growth performance, immunity, and intestinal health in weaned pigs.

METHODS

Thirty weaned pigs were randomly assigned into five groups and feed with basal diet or the basal diet containing 50, 75, 100, or 125 mg/kg Fe as SPCI diets. The experiment lasted for 21 d and on day 22, blood samples were collected 1 h later. The tissue and intestinal mucosa samples were collected following.

RESULTS

Our results showed that the feed to gain ratio (F:G) decreased with different levels of SPCI addition (P < 0.05). The average daily gain (ADG) (P < 0.05) and digestibility of crude protein (P < 0.01) decreased with 125 mg/kg SPCI addition. With dietary different levels of SPCI addition, the serum concentrations of ferritin (quadratic, P < 0.001), transferrin (quadratic, P < 0.001), iron content in liver (quadratic, P < 0.05), gallbladder (quadratic, P < 0.01) and fecal (quadratic, P < 0.01) increased quadraticly. While the iron content in tibia (P < 0.01) increased by 100 mg/kg SPCI supplementation. Dietary 75 mg/kg SPCI addition increased the serum insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) (P < 0.01) and SPCI (75 ~ 100 mg/kg) addition also increased the serum content of IgA (P < 0.01). The serum concentrations of IgG (quadratic, P < 0.05) and IgM (quadratic, P < 0.01) increased quadraticly by different levels of SPCI supplementation. Moreover, different levels of SPCI supplementation decreased the serum concentration of D-lactic acid (P < 0.01). The serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (P < 0.01) elevated but the malondialdehyde (MDA) (P < 0.05) decreased by 100 mg/kg SPCI addition. Interestingly, SPCI supplementation at 75 ~ 100 mg/kg improved the intestinal morphology and barrier function, as suggested by enhanced villus height (P < 0.01) and villus height/crypt depth (V/C) (P < 0.01) in duodenum, as well as jejunum epithelium tight-junction protein ZO-1 (P < 0.01). Moreover, SPCI supplementation at 75 ~ 100 mg/kg increased the activity of duodenal lactase (P < 0.01), jejunal sucrase (P < 0.01) and ileal maltase (P < 0.01). Importantly, the expression levels of divalent metal transporter-1(DMT1) decreased with different levels of SPCI addition (P < 0.01). In addition, dietary SPCI supplementation at 75 mg/kg elevated the expression levels of critical functional genes such as peptide transporter-1(PePT1) (P = 0.06) and zinc transporter 1 (ZnT1) (P < 0.01) in ileum. The expression levels of sodium/glucose co-transporter-1 (SGLT1) in ileum (quadratic, P < 0.05) increased quadraticly by different levels of SPCI addition and amino acid transporter-1 (CAT1) in jejunum(P < 0.05) also increased by 100 mg/kg SPCI addition.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary SPCI supplementation at 75 ~ 100 mg/kg improved growth performance by elevated immunity and intestinal health.

Assessing the Interactions between Zinc and Vitamin A on Intestinal Functionality, Morphology, and the Microbiome In Vivo (Gallus gallus)

Dietary deficiencies in zinc (Zn) and vitamin A (VA) are among the leading micronutrient deficiencies globally and previous research has proposed a notable interaction between Zn and VA physiological status. This study aimed to assess the effects of zinc and vitamin A (isolated and combined) on intestinal functionality and morphology, and the gut microbiome (Gallus gallus). The study included nine treatment groups (n~11)-no-injection (NI); H₂O; 0.5% oil; normal zinc (40 mg/kg ZnSO₄) (ZN); low zinc (20 mg/kg) (ZL); normal retinoid (1500 IU/kg retinyl palmitate) (RN); low retinoid (100 IU/kg) (RL); normal zinc and retinoid (40 mg/kg; 1500 IU/kg) (ZNRN); low zinc and retinoid (ZLRL) (20 mg/kg; 100 IU/kg). Samples were injected into the amniotic fluid of the fertile broiler eggs. Tissue samples were collected upon hatch to target biomarkers. ZLRL reduced ZIP4 gene expression and upregulated ZnT1 gene expression (p < 0.05). Duodenal surface area increased the greatest in RL compared to RN (p < 0.01), and ZLRL compared to ZNRN (p < 0.05). All nutrient treatments yielded shorter crypt depths (p < 0.01). Compared to the oil control, ZLRL and ZNRN reduced (p < 0.05) the cecal abundance of Bifidobacterium and Clostridium genera (p < 0.05). These results suggest a potentially improved intestinal epithelium proceeding with Zn and VA intra-amniotic administration. Intestinal functionality and gut bacteria were modulated. Further research should characterize long-term responses and the microbiome profile.

Positive effects of selenized-oligochitosan on zearalenone-induced intestinal dysfunction in piglets

This paper assessed the positive effects of selenized-oligochitosan (SOC) on zearalenone(ZEN)-induced intestinal dysfunction in piglets. Sixty piglets were randomly divided into 4 groups. Group C was fed the basal diet as a control and Group Z was supplemented with 2 μg/g ZEN in the basal diet; Group ZS1 and ZS2 were supplemented with 0.3 or 0.5 μg/g SOC (calculated by selenium), in addition to 2 μg/g ZEN in the basal diet. After 42 days, ileal mucosal structure, digestive enzyme activities, tight junction protein mRNA expressions, plasma D-lactate and D-xylose contents, and plasma diamine oxidase activities were determined. Compare with Group C, ileal villus height, value of villus height/crypt depth, trypsin, lipase and α-amylase activities, occluding, claudin-1 and ZO-1 mRNA expressions, and plasma D-xylose levels were significantly decreased (p < 0.01) in piglets of group Z; while compare to Group C, ileal crypt depth, plasma D-lactate contents and diamine oxidase activities were significantly increased in piglets of group Z (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). Compare with Group Z, ileal villus height, lipase and α-amylase activities, occluding, claudin-1 and ZO-1 mRNA expressions, and plasma D-xylose levels were significantly elevated in piglets of group ZS1 and ZS2 (p < 0.01); while compare to Group Z, plasma D-lactate and diamine oxidase contents were significantly reduced in piglets of group ZS1 and ZS2 (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). Compare with Group Z, value of villus height/crypt depth and trypsin activity were significantly promoted in piglets of group ZS2 (p < 0.01); whereas ileal crypt depth was significantly reduced in piglets of group ZS2 (p <0.01).Thus, SOC can mitigate ZEN-induced intestinal dysfunction in piglets.

Reducing Weaning Stress in Piglets by Pre-Weaning Socialization and Gradual Separation from the Sow: A Review

The weaning of pigs in most commercial pork production systems is an abrupt event performed at a fairly young age, i.e., mostly between 2.5 and 5 weeks of age. This practice induces a stress response, and its impact on behavior, performance and the gastrointestinal tract has been well described. Historically, there has been a focus on pre- and post-weaning nutritional strategies and post-weaning housing conditions and medication to improve production and reduce mortality after weaning. However, alternative pre-weaning housing and management systems that promote the development of natural social behaviors of piglets before weaning have recently received more attention. Co-mingling of non-littermates before weaning is a strategy that aims to initiate social interactions prior to weaning. The separation of the litter from the sow in the period leading up to weaning, termed intermittent suckling, aims to enhance the gradual separation from the sow. In addition, these practices encourage the young pig to learn explorative nutrient sourcing. Altogether, they may reduce weaning-associated stress. In this review, these strategies are defined, and their effects on behavior, performance, mortality, gastrointestinal function and immunocompetence are described. Though these strategies may be adapted to a commercial setting, it also becomes clear that many factors can contribute to the success of these strategies.

Chlorogenic acid improves intestinal morphology by enhancing intestinal stem-cell activity

BACKGROUND

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), as one of the most abundant naturally occurring phenolic acids, has been documented to be beneficial for intestinal health. However, the underlying mechanism is still not fully understood. The adult intestinal stem cell is the critical driver of epithelial homeostasis and regeneration.

RESULTS

This study hypothesized that CGA exerted intestinal health effects by modulating intestinal stem-cell functions. Lgr5-EGFP mice were treated for 14 days, and intestinal organoids derived from these mice were treated for 3 days, using CGA solution. In comparison with the control group, CGA treatment increased intestinal villous height and crypt depth in mice and augmented the area expansion and the number of budding intestinal organoids. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis revealed that CGA treatment significantly increased the expression of genes coding intestinal stem-cell markers in intestinal tissue and organoids, and upregulated the expression of genes coding secretory cell lineages and enterocytes, although not statistically significantly. Fluorescence-activated cell-sorting analysis further confirmed that CGA augmented the number of stem cells. 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation and Ki67 immunostaining results also demonstrated that CGA treatment enhanced intestinal stem-cell proliferation.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, our findings indicate that CGA could activate intestinal stem-cell and epithelial regeneration, which could contribute to the improvement of intestinal morphology or organoid growth of mice. This highlights a promising mechanism for CGA as an excellent candidate for the formulation of dietary supplements and functional foods for intestinal protection. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of Two Particle Sizes of Nano Zinc Oxide on Growth Performance, Immune Function, Digestive Tract Morphology, and Intestinal Microbiota Composition in Broilers

The effects of dietary supplementation with two particle sizes of nano zinc oxide (ZnO) on growth performance, immune function, intestinal morphology, and the gut microbiome were determined in a 42-day broiler chicken feeding experiment. A total of 75 one-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomized and divided into three groups with five replicates of five chicks each, including the conventional ZnO group (NC), the nano-ZnO group with an average particle size of 82 nm (ZNPL), and the nano-ZnO group with an average particle size of 21 nm (ZNPS). Each group was supplemented with 40 mg/kg of ZnO or nano-ZnO. Our results revealed that birds in the ZNPS group had a higher average daily gain and a lower feed-to-gain ratio than those in the NC group. ZNPS significantly increased the thymus index and spleen index, as well as the levels of serum metallothionein (MT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and lysozyme (LZM). The ZNPS treatments reduced interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels and increased IL-2 and interferon (IFN)-γ levels compared to that in the NC group. Additionally, compared with the birds in the NC group, those in the nano-ZnO group had a higher villus height to crypt depth ratio of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Bacteroides increased in the ZNPS group at the genus level. Further, unidentified_Lachnospiraceae, Blautia, Lachnoclostridium, unidentified_Erysipelotrichaceae, and Intestinimonas were significantly increased in the ZNPL group. In conclusion, nano-ZnO improved the growth performance, promoted the development of immune organs, increased nonspecific immunity, improved the villus height to crypt depth ratio of the small intestine, and enriched the abundance of beneficial bacteria. Notably, the smaller particle size (21 nm) of nano-ZnO exhibited a more potent effect.

Dietary Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) Oil Modulates the Growth, Intestinal Morphology, the Fatty Acid Composition of Breast Muscle, Immune Status, and Immunoexpression of CD3 and CD20 in Broiler Chickens

This investigation explored the impact of dietary frankincense resin oil (FO) on growth performance parameters, intestinal histomorphology, fatty acid composition of the breast muscle, and the immune status of broilers. We allotted 400, three-day-old, male chicks (Ross 308 broiler) into four treatment groups (ten replicates/group; ten chicks/replicate). They were fed a basal diet with different concentrations of FO (0, 200, 400, and 600 mg kg^-1). FO supplementation increased the overall body weight (BW) and body weight gain (BWG) by different amounts, linearly improving the feed conversion ratio with the in-supplementation level. Total feed intake (TFI) was not affected. Growth hormones and total serum protein levels also linearly increased with the FO level, while albumin was elevated in the FO600 group. Moreover, total globulins increased linearly in FO400 and FO600 treatment groups. Thyroxin hormone (T3 and T4) levels increased in all FO treatment groups without affecting glucose and leptin serum values. Different concentrations of FO supplementation in the diet increased the activities of Complement 3, lysozyme, and interleukin 10 levels in the serum. Dietary FO in broilers increased the total percentage of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids. It also increased the ratio of n-3 to n-6 linearly and quadratically. Additionally, FO supplementation led to the upregulation of immune clusters of differentiation 3 and 20 (CD3 and CD20) in the spleen, along with improving most of the morphometric measures of the small intestine. In conclusion, FO up to 600 mg kg^-1 as a feed additive in broiler chicken production is valuable for promoting their growth, intestinal histomorphology, and immune status along with enriching breast muscle with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA).

Immunological effect of Lactic acid bacteria adjuvant on in ovo injection of Newcastle disease vaccine

In ovo immunization of chicken embryos with live vaccines is an effective strategy to protect chickens against various viral pathogens. The immunogenic efficacies of in ovo administration of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in combination with live Newcastle disease (ND) vaccine were investigated in this study. Four hundred healthy 1-day-old fertilized specific pathogen-free (SPF) eggs of similar weights were randomly assigned to one of four treatments, with five replicates of each treatment and a total of 20 for each replicate. On day 18.5 of incubation, in ovo injections were given. The treatment groups are as follows: (I) no injection, (II) 0.9% physiological saline injection, (III) ND vaccine injection, and (IV) LAB as an adjuvant for ND vaccine injection. The ND vaccine adjuvanted with LAB significantly increased the daily weight gain, immune organ index, and small intestine histomorphological development in layer chicks while decreasing the feed conversion ratio (FCR). The results suggested that the LAB-adjuvant group significantly affected the relative expression of mucosal mucin protein (mucin-1) and zoccluding small circle protein-1 (ZO-1) (P < 0.05), whereas the relative expression of occludin mRNA was not significantly affected (P > 0.05) compared with the non-injected group. Meanwhile, we indicated that intra-amniotic synbiotic injection significantly maintained the balance of flora (P < 0.05). Compared with the non-injected group, the ND vaccine adjuvanted with the LAB group exhibited significant promotion of the HI and SIgA antibody titers in serum on day 21 (P < 0.05), induction of higher production of cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IFN-γ) in serum. In summary, in ovo injection of ND vaccine adjuvanted with LAB has a positive impact on the growth performance, immune function, and microbiome of growing chicks.

The expression of liver TNF-α gene, liver and small intestine histology of thermal stressed growing rabbits affected by allicin and lycopene

OBJECTIVES

Thermal stress negatively affects the productive performance and immunity responses of rabbits. In this study, we examined the effects of two allicin (AL) and lycopene (LP) levels on performance index, a liver tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) gene expression, histological parameters of liver, and small intestine of V-line growing rabbits exposed to thermal stress.

METHODS

In nine replications of three rabbits per pen under thermal stress, 135 male rabbits (5 weeks old, average weight 772.02 ± 6.41 g) were randomly allocated to five dietary treatments in nine replications of three rabbits per pen under thermal stress (temperature-humidity index average 31.2). The 1st group served as the control, receiving no supplements; The 2nd and 3rd groups received 100 and 200 mg AL/kg of diet supplements; and the 4th and 5th groups were supplemented with 100 and 200 mg LP/kg diet, respectively.

RESULTS

show that AL and LP rabbits had the best final body weight, body gain, and feed conversion ratio compared with the control. compared with control, rabbit liver TNF- α levels significantly decreased in diets containing AL and LP In contrast, AL rabbits were slightly more effective in downregulating the expression of the TNF-α gene than LP groups. Furthermore, dietary supplementation of AL and LP significantly improved antibody titers against sheep red blood titers. Compared with other treatments, AL100 treatment significantly improved immune responses to phytohemagglutinin. In all treatments, histological analysis revealed a significant reduction in binuclear hepatocytes. The diameter of the hepatic lobules, villi height, crypt depth, and absorption surface of heat-stressed rabbits were all positively affected by both doses of LP (100-200 mg/kg diet).

CONCLUSION

rabbit dietary supplementation with AL or LP could positively affect performance, TNF-α, immunity, and histological parameters of growing rabbits under thermal stress.

Juvenile growth, thermotolerance and gut histomorphology of broiler chickens fed Curcuma longa under hot-humid environments

Background

This study was conducted to assess the juvenile development, thermotolerance, and intestinal morphology of broiler chickens fed Curcuma longa in a hot-humid environment.

Methods

In a Completely Randomized Design, 240 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four nutritional treatments of baseline diets supplemented with 0 (CN), 4 (FG), 8 (EG), and 12 g (TT) of turmeric powder/Kg of feed, with four replicates of fifteen birds each. Data on feed consumption and body weights were evaluated weekly during the juvenile growth phase. The physiological indicators of the birds were assessed on day 56 of their lives. The birds were subjected to thermal challenge and data were collected on their physiological traits. Eight birds were randomly selected, euthanized and dissected in each treatment, and 2 cm segments of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were sampled for villi width, villi height, crypt depth, and the villi height: crypt depth ratio measurements.

Results

It was revealed that the weight gain of the birds in EG was significantly greater (p < 0.05) than that of CN birds. The birds in TT, FG, and CN had comparable but smaller duodenal villi than those in EG. The ileal crypt depth in EG chickens was smaller than in CN but comparable to the other treatment groups. In the duodenum, the villi to crypt depth ratio was in the order EG > TT > FG > CN.

Conclusions

To conclude, dietary supplementation of Curcuma longa powder, notably the 8 g/kg diet improved the antioxidant status, thermotolerance, and nutrient absorption by improving intestinal morphology in broiler chickens in a hot-humid environment.

Effects of β-alanine on intestinal development and immune performance of weaned piglets

Beta-alanine is an important amino acid involved in several metabolic reactions in the body. The study aimed to investigate the effect of β-alanine supplementation on intestinal development and the immune performance of weaned piglets. Thirty-two 21-day-old healthy weaned piglets (half female and half male; Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) with an initial body weight of 8.11 ± 0.21 kg were randomly divided into 4 groups with 8 replicates of 1 pig each. The control group was fed a basal diet and the three experimental treatment groups were fed diets supplemented with 300, 600 and 1,200 mg/kg β-alanine, respectively. The trial lasted 28 days and the diets fed were divided into 2 phases: the late lactation period (day 1 to 14) and the nursery period (day 15 to 28), during which the weaned piglets had free access to food and water. The regulatory effects of β-alanine were further investigated in vitro using organoids obtained from the jejunum of piglets. In vivo, the addition of β-alanine to the diet had no significant effect on the growth performance of weaned piglets (P > 0.05), but significantly reduced serum levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) (P < 0.01), immunoglobulin M (IgM) (P = 0.005), and complement 3 (C3) (P = 0.017). The serum interleukin- 6 (IL-6) levels (P < 0.01) were significantly reduced in the 1,200 mg/kg treatment group. The addition of β-alanine increased ileal villus height, with the most significant effect at a concentration of 300 mg/kg (P = 0.041). The addition of 600 mg/kg β-alanine significantly up-regulated the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (P = 0.020) and the zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) gene (P = 0.049) in the jejunum. Diets supplemented with 300 mg/kg β-alanine significantly increased the number of Ki67 positive cells in the jejunal crypts (P < 0.01). In vitro, β-alanine increased the organoid budding rates (P = 0.001) and the budding height of the crypt significantly (P = 0.004). In conclusion, β-alanine can improve intestinal morphology and barrier function, reduce inflammatory responses and alleviate the adverse effects of weaning stress on piglet intestinal health.

Effects of Dietary Fiber on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility and Intestinal Health in Different Pig Breeds

To explore the effect of dietary fiber on growth performance and intestinal health in different pig breeds, forty Taoyuan and Duroc pigs (pure breeds) of 60 days of age were randomly divided into a 2 (diet) × 2 (breed) factorial experiment (n = 10), and fed with a basal diet (BD) or high-fiber diet (HFD). The trial lasted for 28 d, and results showed that the Taoyuan pigs had a higher average daily feed intake (ADFI) than the Duroc pigs (p < 0.05). The average daily gain (ADG) and digestibilities of gross energy (GE) and crude protein (CP) were higher in Taoyuan pigs than in the Duroc pigs under HFD feeding (p < 0.05). The HFD increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity in Taoyuan pigs (p < 0.05). Interestingly, Taoyuan pigs had a higher jejunal villus height and ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V/C) than the Duroc pigs. The HFD significantly improved the villus height and V/C ratio in duodenum and jejunum (p < 0.05). The HFD also increased the jejunal maltase and ileal sucrase activities in Duroc and Taoyuan pigs, respectively (p < 0.05). Taoyuan pigs had a higher expression level of duodenal fatty acid transport protein-1 (FATP-1) than the Duroc pigs (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the HFD acutely improved the expression levels of ileal SGLT-1 and GLUT-2, and the expression levels of jejunal occludin and claudin-1 in Taoyuan pigs (p < 0.05). Importantly, Taoyuan pigs had a higher colonic Bifidobacterium abundance than the Duroc pigs (p < 0.05). The HFD not only elevated the colonic Lactobacillus abundance and butyrate acid content in Taoyuan pigs, but also increased the acetic and propionic acid contents in both the pig breeds (p < 0.05). These results indicated a difference in dietary fiber (DF) utilization by the two pig breeds, and results may also suggest a beneficial character of DF in regulating intestinal health.

Knockout of IL-6 mitigates cold water-immersion restraint stress-induced intestinal epithelial injury and apoptosis

Background

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is essential for maintaining intestinal epithelial homeostasis. Although cold water-immersion restraint (CWIR) stress is commonly used to induce in vivo gastric injury, it also affects intestinal epithelial permeability. Although IL-6 is increased in response to acute physiological and psychological stress, its exact effects on the pathophysiology of the intestinal epithelium in response to acute CWIR stress remain unknown.

Methods

We used IL-6 knockout (KO) mice with acute CWIR modeling to investigate the effect of IL-6 deficiency on intestinal epithelial morphology and pathological damage using histological staining assays under the acute stress. We detected jejunal epithelial apoptosis using TUNEL and standard molecular experiments.

Results

CWIR caused intestinal epithelial damage, which was alleviated by the absence of IL-6, as evidenced by morphological changes and goblet cell and intestinal permeability alteration. IL-6 KO also reduced CWIR-mediated inflammatory levels and improved stress defense. Meanwhile, IL-6 deficiency decreased the intestinal epithelial apoptosis induced by CWIR administration. This IL-6 KO-led effect depended more on mitochondrial AIF signaling rather than the traditional caspase pathway.

Conclusion

As a result, we concluded that acute CWIR-induced severe intestinal damage and jejunal epithelium apoptosis could be alleviated by IL-6 deficiency, implying a protective effect of IL-6 deficiency on the intestines under acute stress. The findings shed new light on treating CWIR-induced intestinal disorders by inhibiting IL-6 signaling.

Empire Apple (Malus domestica) Juice, Pomace, and Pulp Modulate Intestinal Functionality, Morphology, and Bacterial Populations In Vivo (Gallus gallus)

Approximately $20 billion of apple sales are generated annually in the United States. With an estimated 5 million tons produced yearly in the U.S. within the last decade, apple consumption is considered ubiquitous. Apples are comprised of bioactive constituents such as phytochemicals and prebiotics that may potentiate intestinal health and the gut microbiome. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Empire apple juice, pomace, and pulp soluble extracts on intestinal functionality, morphology, and the microbiome in vivo (Gallus gallus). There were five treatment groups: non-injected (NI); 18 MΩ H2O (H2O); 6% apple juice (AJ); 6% apple pomace (APo); 6% apple pulp (APu). The eggs were treated by intra-amniotic administration of the samples on day 17 of incubation. After hatching, the blood, tissue, and cecum samples were collected for further analyses—including duodenal histomorphology, hepatic and duodenal mRNA expression, and cecal bacterial populations. Crypt depth was significantly (p < 0.5) shortest in AJ when compared to APo and APu. APo and APu soluble extracts significantly improved villi surface area compared to NI and H2O control groups. The highest count of Paneth cells per crypt was observed in APo as compared to all groups. In addition, the expression of brush border membrane micronutrient metabolism and functional proteins varied between treatments. Lastly, Lactobacillus cecal microbial populations increased significantly in the AJ group, while AJ, APu, and APu increased the abundance of Clostridium (p < 0.5). Ultimately, these results indicate the potential of Empire apple pomace to improve host intestinal health and the gut microbiome.

The Effects of Dietary Bacillus amyloliquefaciens TL106 Supplementation, as an Alternative to Antibiotics, on Growth Performance, Intestinal Immunity, Epithelial Barrier Integrity, and Intestinal Microbiota in Broilers

A total of 240 1-day-old Arbor Acres male broilers were randomly divided into five dietary treatments (control feed (CON), supplemented with 75 mg/kg aureomycin (ANT), supplemented with 7.5 × 108 CFU/kg (Ba1) and 2.5 × 109 CFU/kg (Ba1), and 7.5 × 109 CFU/kg (Ba3) Bacillus amyloliquefaciens TL106, respectively) to investigate the probiotic effect of TL106 instead of antibiotics in broilers. On days 1−21, the average daily gain of broilers in the Ba groups was increased compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). In addition, the feed/gain ratio of broilers in the Ba groups was lower than that of broilers in the CON and ANT groups on days 22−42 and days 1−42 (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON group, dietary TL106 increased the digestibility of crude fiber and crude protein (p < 0.05), and the effect was similar to that of the ANT group. The levels of IL-1β, IFN-γ, and IL-6 in serum, jejunum, and ileum of broilers fed TL106 were decreased compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of tight junction proteins in broilers of ANT and Ba groups was higher than the control group (p < 0.05). After 21 days, villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth of duodenum and jejunum of broilers fed TL106 were higher than the control group (p < 0.05). The concentrations of short-chain fatty acids such as lactate, acetate, propionate, and butyrate in cecal digesta of broilers dietary TL106 were higher than the control group (p < 0.05). The supplementation with TL106 altered the compositions and diversity of the cecal microbiota of broilers. Moreover, supplementation with TL106 improved the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes and decreased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria on days 21 and 28, while the abundance of Peptostreptococcaceae, Ruminococcaceae and Lactobacillaceae was increased. On days 35 and 42, broilers fed TL106 had an increased total abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes and decreased abundances of Lactobacillaceae, while the abundance of Barnesiellaceae was increased. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with TL106 improved the broiler’s growth performance, immune response capacity, gut health, modulated development, and composition of the gut microbiota in broilers. It is suggested that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens TL106 may be a suitable alternative to in-feed antibiotics to improve broiler health and performance.

Phytobiotics from Oregano Extracts Enhance the Intestinal Health and Growth Performance of Pigs

This study aimed to investigate the effects of phytobiotics on the intestinal health and growth performance of pigs. Totals of 40 newly-weaned pigs with 6.4 ± 0.3 kg BW (Exp. 1) and 120 growing pigs with 27.9 ± 2.3 kg BW (Exp. 2) were allotted in RCBD in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. The factors were: antibiotics as growth promoter (AGP) and phytobiotics (PHY). Pigs were fed experimental diets during 21 d (Exp. 1) and 42 d (Exp. 2). Growth performance, health parameters, and nutrient digestibility were evaluated. In Exp. 1, AGP diet increased (p < 0.05) ADG and G:F compared with a diet without AGP or PHY and a diet with AGP combined with PHY. PHY decreased (p < 0.05) TNF-α and IgG in the jejunum and protein carbonyl in plasma, whereas it increased (p < 0.05) the villus height. In Exp. 2, AGP or PHY diets increased (p < 0.05) ADG, ADFI, and G:F compared with a diet without AGP or PHY and a diet with AGP combined with PHY. PHY decreased (p < 0.05) IgG and PC in plasma. Collectively, AGP and PHY improved growth performance by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing immune status and jejunal morphology. However, the combinational use of phytobiotics with antibiotics suppressed their effect.

Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Zearalenone-Induced Intestinal Damage in Weaned Piglets

Zearalenone (ZEN), also known as the F-2 toxin, is a common contaminant in cereal crops and livestock products. This experiment aimed to reveal the changes in the proteomics of ZEN-induced intestinal damage in weaned piglets by tandem mass spectrometry tags. Sixteen weaned piglets either received a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 3.0 mg/kg ZEN in a 32 d study. The results showed that the serum levels of ZEN, α-zearalenol, and β-zearalenol were increased in weaned piglets exposed to ZEN (p < 0.05). Zearalenone exposure reduced apparent nutrient digestibility, increased intestinal permeability, and caused intestinal damage in weaned piglets. Meanwhile, a total of 174 differential proteins (DEPs) were identified between control and ZEN groups, with 60 up-regulated DEPs and 114 down-regulated DEPs (FC > 1.20 or <0.83, p < 0.05). Gene ontology analysis revealed that DEPs were mainly involved in substance transport and metabolism, gene expression, inflammatory, and oxidative stress. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed that DEPs were significantly enriched in 25 signaling pathways (p < 0.05), most of which were related to inflammation and amino acid metabolism. Our study provides valuable clues to elucidate the possible mechanism of ZEN-induced intestinal injury.

Comparing effects of natural betaine and betaine hydrochloride on gut physiology in broiler chickens

Betaine is a well-known component of poultry diets with various effects on nutritional physiology. For example, increased water retention due to the osmolytic effect of betaine increases the volume of the cell, thereby accelerating the anabolic activity, integrity of cell membrane, and overall performance of the bird. Betaine is a multifunctional component (trimethyl derivative) acting as the most efficient methyl group donor and as an organic osmolyte, which can directly influence the gastrointestinal tract integrity, functionality, and health. So far, nothing is known about the effect of betaine on the intestinal barrier in chickens. In addition, little is known about comparing natural betaine with its synthetic form. Therefore, an animal study was conducted to ascertain the effects of betaine supplementation (natural and synthetic) on performance and intestinal physiological responses of broilers. One hundred and five 1-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned into 3 groups with 35 birds each: control, natural betaine (1 kg active natural (n)-betaine/ton of feed) and synthetic (syn)-betaine‐HCL (1 kg active betaine /ton of feed). Histological assessment showed lower jejunal crypt depth and villi height/crypt depth ratio in syn-betaine-HCL group compared with natural n-betaine fed birds. Furthermore, it was found that syn-betaine-HCL negatively affects the integrity of the intestine by increasing the intestinal paracellular permeability in both jejunum and cecum as evidenced by a higher mannitol flux. Additionally, syn-betaine-HCl significantly upregulated the IFN-γ mRNA expression at certain time points, which could promote intestinal permeability, as it plays an important role in intestinal barrier dysfunction. Body weight (BW) and body weight gain (BWG) did not differ (P > 0.05) between the control birds and birds supplemented with syn-betaine‐HCL. However, the BW and BWG were significantly (P < 0.05) improved by the dietary inclusion of n-betaine compared with other treatments. Altogether, the dietary inclusion of n-betaine had a positive effect on performance and did not negatively affect gut paracellular permeability. Furthermore, our results show that syn-betaine-HCl induces changes in the intestine, indicating an alteration of the intestinal histology and permeability. Thus, natural or synthetic betaine has different effects, which needs to be considered when using them as a feed supplement.

Eugenol alleviates transmissible gastroenteritis virus-induced intestinal epithelial injury by regulating NF-κB signaling pathway

Increasing evidence supports the ability of eugenol to maintain intestinal barrier integrity and anti-inflammatory in vitro and in vivo; however, whether eugenol alleviates virus-mediated intestinal barrier damage and inflammation remains a mystery. Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), a coronavirus, is one of the main causative agents of diarrhea in piglets and significantly impacts the global swine industry. Here, we found that eugenol could alleviate TGEV-induced intestinal functional impairment and inflammatory responses in piglets. Our results indicated that eugenol improved feed efficiency in TGEV-infected piglets. Eugenol not only increased serum immunoglobulin concentration (IgG) but also significantly decreased serum inflammatory cytokine concentration (TNF-α) in TGEV-infected piglets. In addition, eugenol also significantly decreased the expression of NF-κB mRNA and the phosphorylation level of NF-κB P65 protein in the jejunum mucosa of TGEV-infected piglets. Eugenol increased villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum, and decreased serum D-lactic acid levels. Importantly, eugenol increased tight junction protein (ZO-1) and mRNA expression levels of nutrient transporter-related genes (GluT-2 and CaT-1) in the jejunum mucosa of TGEV-infected piglets. Meanwhile, compared with TGEV-infected IPEC-J2 cells, treatment with eugenol reduced the cell cytopathic effect, attenuated the inflammatory response. Interestingly, eugenol did not increase the expression of ZO-1 and Occludin in IPEC-J2 cells. However, western blot and immunofluorescence results showed that eugenol restored TGEV-induced down-regulation of ZO-1 and Occludin, while BAY11-7082 (The NF-κB specific inhibitor) enhanced the regulatory ability of eugenol. Our findings demonstrated that eugenol attenuated TGEV-induced intestinal injury by increasing the expression of ZO-1 and Occludin, which may be related to the inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway. Eugenol may offer some therapeutic opportunities for coronavirus-related diseases.

Performance and muscle lipogenesis of calves born to Nellore cows with different residual feed intake classification

This study aimed to evaluate relationships among maternal residual feed intake (RFI) with growth performance and expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism in offspring of Nellore cattle. Fifty-three cows classified as negative or positive RFI by genomic prediction were exposed to fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols at 2 and 3 years of age using semen from the same bull. In the first year, cows gestated under grazing conditions and nursed their calves in the feedlot. In the second year, the opposite occurred. Cows were weighed every 28 days during pregnancy and calves were weighed at birth and every 28 days until weaning. Ultrasound images were collected from the carcass of cows and calves. Muscle gene expression was evaluated in calves at birth and weaning. Data were analyzed by year considering the fixed effects of RFI class and FTAI protocol for variables measured in cows, and RFI class, FTAI protocol and sex for variables measured in calves. There was no effect of maternal RFI on calves performance in the first year. Lower expression of FABP4 gene and trend towards lower expression of SREBF1 and LPL genes were detected in samples collected after birth from calves born to negative RFI cows, indicating that adipogenesis was reduced during the fetal and neonatal period. In the second year, negative RFI cows had greater subcutaneous fat thickness than positive RFI cows, and their calves tended to be heavier at birth and to have less rump fat thickness at weaning. No significant differences in expression of genes studied were detected between cow RFI classes. Nellore cows classified as negative RFI consume less feed and produce calves whose growth potential is similar to that of calves produced by positive RFI cows.

Effects of Dietary Amylose-Amylopectin Ratio on Growth Performance and Intestinal Digestive and Absorptive Function in Weaned Piglet Response to Lipopolysaccharide

This study investigated the effects of diet with different amylose−amylopectin ratios (AAR) on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, digestive enzyme activities and mRNA expression of nutrients transporters in piglets with short-term lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intraperitoneal injections. Sixty 21 days-old piglets (Landrace × Yorkshire; 6.504 ± 0.079) were randomly assigned based on their body weight (BW) and litters of origins to five groups with experimental diets with an AAR of 0.00, 0.20, 0.40, 0.60, or 0.80 (namely, the 0.00, 0.20, 0.40, and 0.80 groups), respectively. Each treatment included 12 piglets (one piglet per pen). This experiment lasted for 28 days. On the 28th day, six piglets in each treatment were randomly selected for an LPS intraperitoneal injection (100 μg/kg BW), and other piglets were injected with normal saline. Twelve hours after LPS injection, all piglets were sacrificed to collect small intestinal mucosa for analysis. Although different AAR did not influence the final BW in piglets, the piglets in the 0.40 group represented the poorest feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) in the first, second and fourth week (p < 0.05) and the lowest average daily gain (ADG) in the fourth week (p < 0.05) compared with other groups. In terms of the small intestinal morphology, piglets in the 0.20 and 0.60 groups showed better ileal villous width (p < 0.05). Piglets in the 0.60 group presented greater activities of jejunal maltase, sucrase and alkaline phosphatase (p < 0.05) than those of 0.20 and 0.40. However, a low amylose diet increased the mRNA expression of jejunal glucose and amino acid transporters (p < 0.05). In addition, compared to saline injection, the LPS challenge significantly lessened jejunal digestive enzyme activities (p < 0.01) and, ileal villous width and downregulated the gene expression of glucose and amino acid transporters (p < 0.05) in piglets. Interestingly, certain diet -LPS interactions on duodenal VH/CD, jejunal maltase activity (p < 0.05) and the expression of glucose transporters (p < 0.05) were observed. Taken together, in terms of small intestinal digestion and absorption capacity, these results demonstrated that a diet with an AAR of 0.60 diets could improve the intestinal digestive and absorptive capability by affecting small intestinal morphology, digestive enzymes, and nutrients absorptions in piglets. In addition, the diets containing an AAR of 0.40−0.60 were more likely to resist the damage of LPS stress to intestinal morphology and nutrient absorption.

The optimal dietary arginine level of laying hens fed with low-protein diets

Background

Arginine (Arg) is an essential amino acid (EAA) in poultry, an important substrate for protein synthesis and a precursor of several molecules. Supplementation of EAAs with low protein (LP) diet increases the utilization efficiency of dietary crude protein (CP). However, if the EAA requirement is changed in hens fed a LP diet remains to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the optimal level of dietary Arg in the LP diet of hens. A total of 1350 Hy-Line Brown laying hens were randomly allocated to six dietary treatments: a basal diet (16% CP, positive control), or an isoenergetic LP diet (14% CP, 0.80% Arg) supplemented 0, 0.05%, 0.10%, 0.15%, and 0.20% L-Arg, corresponding to 0.80%, 0.85%, 0.90%, 0.95% and 1.00% dietary Arg, respectively.

Results

The feed efficiency was decreased (P < 0.05) by 0.80% and 1.00% Arg-LP diets, compared to control. Within LP diets, dietary Arg level had significant quadratic effects (P < 0.05) on laying rate, egg mass, and feed efficiency. Compared to control, the plasma CAT activity or T-AOC content were decreased by 0.80% (P < 0.001). However, the hens offered 0.85% and 0.90% Arg-LP diets had higher CAT activity (P < 0.001) than 0.80% Arg-LP diet. In contrast, 1.00% Arg-LP group had the highest MDA and the lowest T-AOC content in plasma, liver, duodenal and jejunal mucosa (P < 0.05). Compared to control, the villus height was decreased by 0.80%, 0.95% and 1.00% Arg-LP diets, while the villus height to crypt depth (V/C) ratio was reduced by 0.95% and 1.00% Arg-LP diets in duodenum.

Conclusion

The result demonstrates that LP diet (14% CP) deficient in Arg (0.80% Arg) result in augmented oxidative damage and impaired development of intestinal mucosa. According to the quadratic broken-line regression model, the optimal dietary arginine levels for Hy-Line Brown laying hens fed with low protein diet (14% CP) aged 33 to 40 weeks are 0.85%, 0.86%, and 0.86% to obtained the maximum laying rate, egg mass, and feed efficiency, respectively.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-022-00719-x.

The Effect of BPA-Treated Water on the Small Intestine via an In Vivo Study

Since the major route of BPA exposure is via the oral route, BPA may have effects on the gastrointestinal tract, especially on the intestinal barrier, where most digestion and absorption processes occur. In this study, the effects of BPA-treated water on the small intestine (SI) and SI tight junction proteins (TJPs) of both pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats and their fetuses were investigated. Previously, hybrid photocatalytic filtration treatment by a visible light driven N-doped TiO₂ membrane has successfully removed up to 81.6% of BPA in water. The effect of BPA-untreated (5.00 ± ppm) and BPA-treated water (0.9 ± ppm) after 21 days of exposure on the jejunum and ileum, as well as the expressions of claudin proteins, were investigated by Western blotting (WB) and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) in order to investigate the potential of the photocatalytic membrane in removing the detrimental effect of BPA. The results suggest that BPA exposure altered the morphology of villi, and affected the expression level of claudin-2, -3, and -4 proteins in the jejunum and ileum of both pregnant rats and their fetuses. Interestingly, villi and claudins expressions were undisrupted in a treated-BPA water group, which indicated that the degradation of BPA via membranes effectively mitigates the effect on BPA on gastrointestinal tract.

Extruded Enzyme-Added Corn Improves the Growth Performance, Intestinal Function, and Microbiome of Weaning Piglets

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of extruded corn with added amylase under different moisture conditions on the growth performance, intestinal function, and microbiome of weaning piglets. Fourty-eight 24-day-old weaning piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire, weaned at 22 ± 1 d) with an initial body weight of 6.76 ± 0.15 kg were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments with six replicates per treatment and two pigs per replicate: (1) NL (adding 7.5% water before corn extrusion, negative treatment with low moisture); (2) NH (adding 15.0% water before corn extrusion, negative treatment with high moisture); (3) PL (adding 7.5% water and 4 kg/t α-amylase before corn extrusion, positive treatment with low moisture); and (4) PH (adding 15% water and 4 kg/t α-amylase before corn extrusion, positive treatment with high moisture). Results showed that amylase supplementation (4 vs. 0 kg/t) increased the contents of small molecular oligosaccharides of extruded corn (p < 0.05). Amylase supplementation significantly improved the average daily feed intake, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter, crude protein, gross energy, crude fat, ash, phosphorus, and calcium, and also increased the activities of jejunal trypsin, α-amylase, lipase, sucrase, maltase, γ-glutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase activities, improved the duodenal, jejunal and ileal morphology, and increased the relative mRNA expressions of the ZO-1, OCLN, SGLT1, and GLUT2 genes in the jejunum (p < 0.05), whereas it decreased the contents of isobutyric acid in cecal digesta, as well as acetic acid and isobutyric acid in colonic digesta (p < 0.05). Moreover, the linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) showed that piglets fed extruded corn with added enzymes contained less intestinal pathogenic bacteria, such as Holdemanella and Desulfovibrio, compared with piglets fed just extruded corn. In summary, the results of the present study indicated that the supplementation of α-amylase during the conditioning and extruding process of corn increased the small molecular oligosaccharide content of corn starch. Moreover, piglets receiving extruded enzyme-added corn had better growth performance, which was associated with the improved intestinal digestive and absorptive function, as well as the intestinal microbiome.

Effect of Novel Lactobacillus paracaesi microcapsule on growth performance, gut health and microbiome community of broiler chickens

The beneficial action of probiotics is questioned time and again due to the loss of their survivability under gastrointestinal conditions, particularly gastric acid. In this experiment, a probiotic species was encapsulated to improve its delivery to the distal parts, and its effects on production performance, gut health, and microbial profile in broilers were investigated. A total of 240 Arbor acres (AA) broilers were randomly allotted into 3 treatments with 8 replicate pens per treatment and 10 broilers in each pen for 42 d. Dietary treatments were 1) basal feed without any additives (CON), 2) CON+15 ppm Virginiamycin (ANT), and 3) CON+500 ppm encapsulated Lactobacillus paracaesi (ELP). The result showed that the addition of ELP to the feed did not affect growth performance and carcass characteristics significantly. However, ELP increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (P < 0.05) and mRNA expression of ZO-1 (P < 0.05) relative to the CON or ANT group. Similarly, qPCR showed that dietary supplementation of ELP raised gene expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine and tended to decrease proinflammatory cytokines resulting improve in immunity. Moreover, chicks fed with ELP had lower malondialdehyde (MDA) (P < 0.05) than CON and lower reactive oxygen species (ROS) (P < 0.05) level than ANT in serum. In contrast, the total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) level was tended to increase. The ammonia level of ileum and cecum chyme was decreased (P < 0.05) in the ELP group than CON while the level of propionic acid of cecal content was increased (P < 0.05). 16S rRNA sequencing revealed the dietary treatment modulated the diversity and composition of cecal microflora. At the phylum level, Bacteroidetes was enriched, and Proteobacteria was depleted in the ELP group. At the genus level, ELP increased Bacteroides (P < 0.05) compared to control. The results indicate that oral delivery of probiotics via microcapsule could impart beneficial effects on birds and be used as an alternative to antibiotics.

Evaluation of Selected Bacteria and Yeast for Probiotic Potential in Poultry Production

Performance and efficiency of feed utilization in poultry is highly influenced by gut health, which is dependent on intestinal microbial balance. Probiotics are live microbial feed supplements or viable microorganisms that beneficially affect the host animal by improving its gastrointestinal tract (GIT) microbial balance. However, their mode of action and suitable GIT environment favoring their colonization of the GIT is obscure. The probiotic properties of Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium longum, and Saccharomyces boulardii were evaluated. These microbes were tested in vitro against gastrointestinal conditions for survivability and their ability to attach to the intestinal mucosa. The ability of the microbes to tolerate and survive varying pH levels and bile concentrations was assessed. The microbes were challenged with a pH of 2 to 7 for 5 h and bile concentrations of 1 to 3% for 6 hrs. The microbes were sampled hourly to evaluate growth or decline in colony-forming units (CFU). B. longum, L. Plantarum, and S. boulardii exhibited significantly higher CFU (p < 0.05) at a pH range of 5 to 7, 4 to 7, and 2 to 7, respectively, when compared with other pH levels. L. plantarum had much higher colony-forming units per mL within each pH level, except at pH 2 where S. boulardii was the only microbe to survive over time. While L. plantarum and S. boulardii were able to tolerate the various bile concentrations, B. longum and L. plantarum showed remarkable ability to attach to the intestinal mucosa and to inhibit pathogenic microbes.

A Proteolytic Enzyme Treatment to Improve Ulva laetevirens and Solieria chordalis Seaweed Co-Product Digestibility, Performance and Health in Broilers

To explore the potential use of seaweed co-products for broiler diets, this study investigates whether an enzyme treatment of seaweed co-products improves performance, in vivo digestibility and health in broilers. In total, 360 Ross 308 male broilers were fed one of 5 experimental diets: a basal diet, or a basal diet including the U. laetevirens or S. chordalis co-product, with or without proteolytic enzyme treatment of the seaweed, using 6 replicate pens of 12 birds each. The starter (d 0–13) and grower (d 14–21) diet contained 5 and 10% (w/w) seaweed product, respectively. A general linear model with contrast statements was used after model assumptions and goodness of fit were evaluated through normal distribution of residuals. Inclusion of seaweed in the broiler diets increased body weight gain (+14%; P = 0.002), and feed intake (+12%; P = 0.001) in the third week of the experiment. Birds fed the U. laetevirens compared to the S. chordalis diets had a higher body weight gain (+11%; P = 0.007), and a lower feed conversion ratio (FCR; -7%; P < 0.001). Seaweed inclusion reduced apparent pre-cecal digestibility of all nutrients (P < 0.05). Birds fed U. laetevirens vs. S. chordalis diets had a 10% reduced villus length (P < 0.001). Enzymatic treatment reduced the digestibility of most nutrients, and increased crypt depth in birds fed the U. laetevirens diets, whereas the opposite was observed for the birds fed the S. chordalis diets (Seaweed × Enzyme P = 0.035). Untreated vs. treated seaweed in the diets led to lower (−60%) plasma Interleukin-13 levels (P = 0.035). In conclusion, the proteolytic enzyme treatment of the seaweed co-products did not improve performance nor health-related parameters, and reduced digestibility of the diets. Dietary inclusion of U. laetevirens co-products did improve performance based on growth and FCR, whereas inclusion of S. chordalis did not. Inclusion of U. laetevirens in broiler diets slightly reduced duodenal villus length and crypt depth. The inflammation response was strongly reduced, specifically in birds fed the untreated U. laetevirens diet, making the U. laetevirens co-product of interest for future research.

Characteristics of Essential Oils of Apiaceae Family: Their Chemical Compositions, in vitro Properties and Effects on Broiler Production

There has been an upsurge of interest in the phytobiotics coincident with the onset of the potential ban on the use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in the broiler industry and because many kinds of nutraceuticals play an important role in improving growth performance, feed efficiency, and gut health of broilers. In the previous years, significant biological activities of essential oils (EOs) belonging to phytobiotics were observed, including anti-bacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. We found new perspectives on the roles of EOs, particularly extracts from the Apiaceae family, which is one of the largest plant families, in potential replacement of AGPs, and on the chemical composition involved in regulating microorganism activity and oxidative damage. Furthermore, the positive effects of EOs on broiler production and the possible mechanisms inducing the involvement of gut health and growth performance have been studied.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Red Yeast (Sporidiobolus pararoseus) on Productive Performance, Egg Quality, and Duodenal Cell Proliferation of Laying Hens

Simple Summary

The present study investigated the effect of different levels of red yeast added to the diet of laying hens as a substitute for antibiotics. The aim of this study is to measure growth performance, egg quality, and small intestinal health of hens receiving this supplement at various levels during 22–60 weeks of age. The results indicate that supplementation with dietary red yeast has a positive effect on productivity and gut health; thus, we suggest administration of this additive as a substitute for antibiotics in laying hens.

Abstract

Nowadays, industrial poultry producers are more focused on the safety of their products, especially contaminants from feedstuffs such as mycotoxin and pesticides. The residue from animal production using antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) may cause some problems with antimicrobial resistance in human and animals. Red yeast (Sporidiobolus pararoseus) has a cell wall consisting of β-glucan and mannan-oligosaccharides and pigments from carotenoids that may be suitable for use as a substitute for AGPs. The objective was to evaluate the effects of red yeast in laying hen diets on productive performance, egg quality, and duodenal health. A total of 22-week-old laying hens (n = 480) were divided into five groups: control diet (CON), AGP at 4.5 g/kg and red yeast supplementation at 1.0 (RY1.0), 2.0 (RY2.0) and 4.0 g/kg (RY4.0) of diet. The results show that the AGP, RY2.0, and RY4.0 groups had significantly higher final body weight compared with the other groups (p < 0.001). The red yeast supplementation improved the egg shape index (p = 0.025), Haugh unit (p < 0.001), and yolk color (p = 0.037), and decreased yolk cholesterol (p < 0.001). Diet with red yeast supplementation improved villus height to crypt depth ratio and crypt cell proliferations. In conclusion, red yeast supplementation at 2.0 g/kg of diet can substitute AGP in layer diet.

Early step-down weaning of dairy calves from a high milk volume with glutamine supplementation

Weaning dairy calves from a high milk volume (≥8.0 kg/d) can negatively affect the growth and welfare even if it is performed in a step-down manner. Supplementation of Gln improved gut development of preweaning calves and mitigated weaning stresses of piglets to extents achieved with antibiotics. The study objective was to examine the effect of initiating a step-down weaning scheme with a Gln supplement at an early age on calf starter intake (CSI), average daily gain (ADG), and paracellular permeability of the intestinal epithelium of calves fed a high volume of milk (9.0 kg/d). Thirty-six Holstein heifer calves were assigned to 3 treatments (n = 12) as follows: (1) initiating weaning at 49 d of age (LW), (2) initiating weaning at 35 d of age (EW), and (3) initiating weaning at 35 d with a Gln supplement (2.0% of dry matter intake) from 28 to 42 d of age (EWG). Calves were fed 9.0 kg/d of whole milk until weaning was initiated by abruptly decreasing the milk volume to 3.0 kg/d. Weaning was completed once calves achieved ≥1.0 kg/d of CSI. The paracellular permeability of the intestinal epithelium was assessed with lactulose-to-mannitol ratio (LMR) in the blood on 1 d before, and 3 and 7 d after the initiation of weaning. The blood was analyzed for haptoglobin, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), and metabolites including AA. The CSI increased once milk volume was restricted in all treatments. The CSI of LW was greater than that of EW and EWG during the first week of weaning. The LW, EW, and EWG took 11, 19, and 16 d to achieve ≥1.0 kg/d of CSI and were weaned at 60, 54, and 51 d of age, respectively. The body weight (BW) of LW, EW, and EWG at the initiation of weaning were 68.2, 58.7, and 59.5 kg, respectively. Both LW and EWG achieved similar ADG, but ADG of EW was lower than LW during the first week of weaning. All calves had similar ADG during the second week of weaning. The BW of LW, EW, and EWG at weaning were 74.8, 66.5, and 66.4 kg, representing a 2.0, 1.8, and 1.8-fold increase in birth weight, respectively. All calves had similar BW of 88.6 and 164.3 kg at 10 and 20 wk of age, respectively. Regardless of the age, serum haptoglobin and plasma LBP concentrations increased on d 3 and returned to baseline concentrations on d 7 during weaning. The EW had a lower plasma LBP concentration than LW and EWG on d 3 during weaning. The LMR was similar between treatments on d 3 but increased by 44% for EW and LW on d 7, whereas the LMR of EWG remained unchanged during weaning. The postprandial serum concentration of Gln, Met, Trp, and β-hydroxybutyrate were greater for EWG than EW during weaning. Beginning step-down weaning at 35 d with a Gln supplement can help maintain the gut barrier function and wean dairy calves with a satisfactory CSI at 7 wk of age without affecting postweaning growth.

Investigation of Citric Acid By-Products from Rice Produced by Microbial Fermentation on Growth Performance and Villi Histology of Thai Broiler Chicken (KKU 1)

This study was conducted with Thai broiler chicken (KKU 1) to investigate the effect of citric acid by-products from rice (CABR) on growth performance and villi histology. A total of 192 broiler chicks were subject to three dietary treatments, including 0% CABR, 3% and 6% of dry matter. Body weight gains, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, survival rate, and production index (body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, survival rates, and productive index, respectively) were considered for growth performance evaluation. Villi height (µm), crypt depth (µm), and villi: crypt ratio were recorded for the villi histological measurement. The performance did not show a significant effect when compared with the control group during at ages ranging from 1 to 56 days. Villi histology indicate a significant effect on villi height (µm), crypt depth (µm), and villi: crypt of broiler chicks compared with the control group. Also, the use of 3% CABR caused a reduction microbial contamination in chicken fecal matter. In conclusion, supplementation of CABR had no negative effects on growth performance of Thai broiler chicken (KKU 1). Also, the addition of 3% CABR to the feed might help reduce fecal microbial contamination and affect the villi histology of Thai broiler chickens (KKU 1).

Positive Influence of a Probiotic Mixture on the Intestinal Morphology and Microbiota of Farmed Guinea Fowls (Numida meleagris)

To understand the effectiveness of a probiotic mixture on intestinal morphology, mucus layer composition, and cecal microbiota diversity, 40 10-day-old Guinea fowls (Numida meleagris) were assigned to two groups: the control group (C), receiving drinking water, and the treated group (P), receiving water plus a commercial multi-strain probiotic (Slab51®, 2 × 10¹¹ CFU/L). Birds were slaughtered after 4 months, and the intestines were collected. Samples from the duodenum, ileum, and cecum were processed for morphological and morphometric studies, and conventional glycohistochemistry. Cecal samples were also used to assess the microbiota by 16S metataxonomic approach. Group P showed significant increase in the villus height (p < 0.001 in the duodenum and p < 0.05 in the ileum and cecum), villus width (p < 0.05 in all investigated tracts), depth of crypts (p < 0.001 in the duodenum and cecum; p < 0.05 in the ileum), and goblet cells per villus (p < 0.001 in all investigated tracts) compared with group C. Cecal microbiota of the birds varied considerably and comparing the relative abundance of the main observational taxonomic units (OTUs), a positive enrichment of several beneficial taxa, such as Oscillospira, Eubacterium, Prevotella, and members of the Ruminococcaceae, was observed. The enrichment of those taxa can improve microbiota stability and resilience facing environmental stresses, enhancing its resistance against invading pathogens. Ruminococcaceae, which represent the most important taxon in both groups, and Prevotella have a key role in the gut physiology due to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are a vital energy source for enterocytes, improve glucose metabolism, and exert an overall anti-inflammatory effect. Probiotic administration enriches the presence of Coprococcus, Oscillospira, and Eubacterium taxa that produce butyrate, which exerts a beneficial effect on growth performance, structure of villi, and pathogen control and has anti-inflammatory properties too. This study indicates that Slab51® supplementation positively affects the morphology and microbiota diversity of the guinea fowl intestine.

Dietary fermented rapeseed or/and soybean meal additives on performance and intestinal health of piglets

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of fermented dried soybean (FSBM) and/or fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) in diets for weaned piglets on production results, nutrient digestibility, gastrointestinal tract histology, and the composition of the gut microbiota. Piglets in the control group received standard diets with soybean meal. Animals in all experimental groups received diets in which a portion of the soybean meal was replaced: in group FR-8% FRSM; in group FR/FS-6% FRSM and 2% FSBM; in group FS/FR-2% FRSM and 6% FSBM and in group FS-8% FSBM. The use of 8% FRSM or 6% FRSM and 2% FSBM in the piglet diets had a positive effect on average daily gains. Piglets from the FR and FR/FS groups had the highest feed conversion rate. Group FS/FR and FS piglets had significantly lower mortality and lower incidence of diarrhoea. Piglets fed a diet with the fermented components, in particular with 8% FRSM or 6% FRSM and 2% FSBM, exhibited a positive effect on the microbiological composition and histology of intestines, which resulted in improved nutrient digestibility coefficients (ATTD and AID).

Pathological alterations in the gastrointestinal tract of a porcine model of DMD

Background

Patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) develop severe skeletal and cardiac muscle pathologies, which result in premature death. Therefore, the current therapeutic efforts are mainly targeted to correct dystrophin expression in skeletal muscle and heart. However, it was reported that DMD patients may also exhibit gastrointestinal and nutritional problems. How the pathological alterations in gastrointestinal tissues contribute to the disease are not fully explored.

Results

Here we employed the CRISPR/Cas9 system combined with somatic nuclear transfer technology (SCNT) to establish a porcine model of DMD and explored their pathological alterations. We found that genetic disruption of dystrophin expression led to morphological gastrointestinal tract alterations, weakened the gastrointestinal tract digestion and absorption capacity, and eventually led to malnutrition and gastric dysfunction in the DMD pigs.

Conclusions

This work provides important insights into the pathogenesis of DMD and highlights the need to consider the gastrointestinal dysfunction as an additional therapeutic target for DMD patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-021-00647-9.

Dietary turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) supplementation improves growth performance, short-chain fatty acid production, and modulates bacterial composition of weaned piglets

In livestock nutrition, natural feed additives are gaining increased attention as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters to improve animal performance. This study investigated the effects of dietary turmeric supplementation on the growth performance and gut health of weaned piglets. A total of 48 weaned piglets (Duroc × [Landrace × Yorkshire]) were used in a 6-week feeding trial. All piglets were allotted to two dietary treatments: corn-soybean meal basal diet without turmeric (control) and with 1% weight per weight (w/w) turmeric powder (turmeric). The results showed that dietary inclusion of turmeric with the basal diet improved final body weight and total average daily gain (p < 0.05). The concentrations of short-chain fatty acids in the fecal samples, including acetic, butyric, and propionic acids, were higher in the turmeric group (p < 0.05). The villus height-to-crypt depth ratio was higher in the ileum of turmeric-fed piglets (p = 0.04). The 16S rRNA gene sequencing of fecal microbiota indicated that, at the phylum level, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the most predominant taxa in all fecal samples. Bacteroidetes were significantly decreased in the turmeric group compared to the control group (p = 0.021). At the genus level, turmeric showed a decreased abundance of Prevotella (p = 0.021) and an increasing trend of Lactobacillus (p = 0.083). Among the total detected species, nine bacterial species showed significant differences between the two groups. The results of this study indicated that turmeric altered the gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acid production. This suggests that turmeric could be used as a potential alternative growth promoter for piglets.

Lactobacillus casei protects intestinal mucosa from damage in chicks caused by Salmonella pullorum via regulating immunity and the Wnt signaling pathway and maintaining the abundance of gut microbiota

Dysfunction of the intestinal mucosal barrier of chicks caused by Salmonella pullorum is of great harm to the poultry industry. Probiotics are recognized for their beneficial health-promoting properties, promoting maintenance of bowel epithelial integrity and host immune system homeostasis. Our previous research showed that Lactobacillus casei protects jejunal mucosa from injury in chicks infected with S. pullorum. However, the specific mechanisms underlying its protective properties are still not fully understood. In the present study, we aimed to explore the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of L. casei on the intestinal mucosal barrier of chicks infected with S. pullorum through histological, immunological, and molecular biology methods. The results indicated that L. casei significantly reduced the diarrhea rate, increased the daily weight gain, and maintained normal levels of IgA, IgM, and IgG in the serum of chicks infected with S. pullorum. Furthermore, we found that L. casei markedly improved the immunity of gut mucosa by regulating cytokine and chemokine receptor balance, elevating the number of intraepithelial lymphocytes, and hence effectively restraining bowel inflammation. Strikingly, feeding of infected chicks with L. casei notably boosted interleukin-22 expression to activate the Wingless-Int pathway, moderated diamine oxidase and D-lactic acid levels, diminished the generation of myosin light chain kinase, and expanded tight junction protein levels (Zonulin-1 and Claudin-1), strengthening the function of the gut mucosal epithelium. In addition, experiments using 16S rDNA sequencing also demonstrated that L. casei immensely weakened the adhesion of S. pullorum, mainly manifesting as improved diversity of the intestinal microbiota in the V4 area of infected chicks. Taken together, these results show that the application of L. casei may be a good strategy to regulate the intestinal inflammatory response of chicks infected with S. pullorum, providing new perspectives in producing antibiotic substitutes in poultry farms.

Use of encapsulated L-lysine-HCl and DL-methionine improves postprandial amino acid balance in laying hens

The supplementation of dietary limiting amino acids (AA) with crystalline AA makes the use of low-protein diets an option in poultry production. The differing absorption rates of crystalline and protein-bound AA may lead to temporally imbalanced AA in the postabsorptive period. In this study, two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of encapsulated L-lysine-HCl (L-Lys-HCl) and DL-methionine (DL-Met) on the laying performance of hens. In exp. 1, a total of 135 forty-seven-wk-old Hy-Line Brown hens were subjected to three dietary treatments for 8 wk: basal diet supplemented with 0.14% L-Lys-HCl and 0.17% DL-Met to satisfy the NRC (1994) total Lys and Met recommendation (control) and basal diet supplemented with encapsulated L-Lys-HCl and DL-Met at the levels of 60% (60CLM, 0.084% L-Lys-HCl and 0.102% DL-Met) or 80% of control (80CLM, 0.112% L-Lys-HCl and 0.136% DL-Met), respectively. In exp. 2, 24 fifty-five-wk-old Hy-Line Brown hens were individually reared in cages and subjected to the same treatments as in exp. 1. The plasma concentrations of free AA and nitrogen metabolites were measured 2, 4, and 6 h after fed. The results showed that dietary AA treatment had no significant influence on body weight (BW), feed intake, laying rate, egg weight, egg mass, or feed efficiency. The expression levels of AA transporters CAT-1, y+LAT1, b0,+AT, B0AT, rBAT, EAAT3, and PepT1 in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were not influenced (P > 0.05) by dietary treatment. There was an interaction of dietary AA treatment and time (P < 0.05) and the 80CLM hens exhibited higher concentrations of Lys (P < 0.05) than the controls at 2-h time point. In contrast, plasma Met concentration was not influenced (P > 0.05), while Cys was reduced in the 60CLM hens at every time point. The 80CLM hens had higher taurine concentrations than those receiving the control diet at every postprandial time point. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that by using encapsulated form, the supplemental levels of synthetic L-Lys-HCl and DL-Met can be effectively reduced by approximately 20% with no negative effect on laying performance. The result suggests that encapsulated Lys and Met may ameliorate the postabsorptive AA balance and contribute to the reduced dietary AA supplemental levels.