Effects of β-glucan extracted from Saccharomyces cerevisiae on growth performance, and immunological and somatotropic responses of pigs challenged with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide1

β-glucans from Euglena gracilis or Saccharomyces cerevisiae effects on immunity and inflammatory parameters in dogs

Considering the differences in molecular structure and function, the effects of β-1,3-glucans from Euglena gracilis and β-1,3/1,6-glucans from Saccharomyces cerevisiae on immune and inflammatory activities in dogs were compared. Four diets were compared: control without β-glucans (CON), 0.15 mg/kg BW/day of β-1,3/1,6-glucans (Β-Y15), 0.15 mg/kg BW/day of β-1,3-glucans (Β-S15), and 0.30 mg/kg BW/day of β-1,3-glucans (Β-S30). Thirty-two healthy dogs (eight per diet) were organized in a block design. All animals were fed CON for a 42-day washout period and then sorted into one of four diets for 42 days. Blood and faeces were collected at the beginning and end of the food intake period and analysed for serum and faecal cytokines, ex vivo production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitric oxide (NO), phagocytic activity of neutrophils and monocytes, C-reactive protein (CRP), ex vivo production of IgG, and faecal concentrations of IgA and calprotectin. Data were evaluated using analysis of covariance and compared using Tukey's test (P<0.05). Dogs fed Β-Y15 showed higher serum IL-2 than dogs fed Β-S30 (P<0.05). A higher phagocytic index of monocytes was observed in dogs fed the B-S15 diet than in those fed the other diets, and a higher neutrophil phagocytic index was observed for B-S15 and B-Y15 than in dogs fed the CON diet (P<0.05). Monocytes from dogs fed B-S15 and B-S30 produced more NO and less H2O2 than those from the CON and B-Y15 groups (P<0.05). Despite in the reference value, CRP levels were higher in dogs fed B-S15 and B-S30 diets (P<0.05). β-1,3/1,6-glucan showed cell-mediated activation of the immune system, with increased serum IL-2 and neutrophil phagocytic index, whereas β-1,3-glucan acted on the immune system by increasing the ex vivo production of NO by monocytes, neutrophil phagocytic index, and serum CRP. Calprotectin and CRP levels did not support inflammation or other health issues related to β-glucan intake. In conclusion, both β-glucan sources modulated some immune and inflammatory parameters in dogs, however, different pathways have been suggested for the recognition and action of these molecules, reinforcing the necessity for further mechanistic studies, especially for E. gracilis β-1,3-glucan.

Nutritional Strategies to Mitigate Post-Weaning Challenges in Pigs: A Focus on Glucans, Vitamin D, and Selenium

This review examines the challenges faced by the pig industry, with a specific focus on improving the health and growth of weaned pigs. It emphasizes the immediate necessity of investigating alternative approaches to managing pig nutrition and health due to restrictions on the use of antibiotics and the prohibition of zinc oxide in weaned pig diets. The weaning phase is identified as a critical stage in piglet development, characterized by stressors that affect their gastrointestinal health, immune responses, and overall physiology. The primary challenge during weaning arises from transitioning piglets from a digestible milk-based diet to a less digestible cereal-based feed, causing nutritional stress. This manifests as reduced feed intake, leading to gastrointestinal disturbances, intestinal inflammation, and adverse effects on intestinal structure and microbiota. To address these challenges and optimize piglet development, various nutritional strategies have been explored. Notably, glucans, particularly β-glucans from fungi, cereals, algae, and yeast, show promise in alleviating weaning-related issues. Furthermore, it is important to highlight the critical roles played by Vitamin D and selenium in piglet nutrition. These essential nutrients can be sourced naturally from enriched mushrooms that are specifically enriched with Vitamin D and selenium, providing a sustainable dietary option. In conclusion, effective nutritional strategies, including glucans, Vitamin D, selenium, and enriched mushrooms, are beneficial for addressing weaning-related challenges.

Chaga mushroom: a super-fungus with countless facets and untapped potential

Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) is an inexpensive fungus with a broad range of traditional and medicinal applications. These applications include therapy for breast, cervix, and skin cancers, as well as treating diabetes. However, its benefits are virtually untapped due to a limited understanding of its mycochemical composition and bioactivities. In this article, we explore the ethnobotany, mycochemistry, pharmacology, traditional therapeutic, cosmetic, and prospective agricultural uses. The review establishes that several secondary metabolites, such as steroids, terpenoids, and other compounds exist in chaga. Findings on its bioactivity have demonstrated its ability as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antitumor agent. The study also demonstrates that Chaga powder has a long history of traditional use for medicinal purposes, pipe smoking rituals, and mystical future forecasts. The study further reveals that the applications of Chaga powder can be extended to industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and agriculture. However numerous publications focused on the pharmaceutical benefits of Chaga with few publications on other applications. Overall, chaga is a promising natural resource with a wide range of potential applications and therefore the diverse array of therapeutic compounds makes it an attractive candidate for various applications such as plant biofertilizers and active ingredients in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. Thus, further exploration of Chaga's potential benefits in agriculture and other industries could lead to exciting new developments and innovations.

Impacts of F18+Escherichia coli on Intestinal Health of Nursery Pigs and Dietary Interventions

This review focused on the impact of F18+E. coli on pig production and explored nutritional interventions to mitigate its deleterious effects. F18+E. coli is a primary cause of PWD in nursery pigs, resulting in substantial economic losses through diminished feed efficiency, morbidity, and mortality. In summary, the F18+E. coli induces intestinal inflammation with elevated IL6 (60%), IL8 (43%), and TNF-α (28%), disrupting the microbiota and resulting in 14% villus height reduction. Besides the mortality, the compromised intestinal health results in a 20% G:F decrease and a 10% ADFI reduction, ultimately culminating in a 28% ADG decrease. Among nutritional interventions to counter F18+E. coli impacts, zinc glycinate lowered TNF-α (26%) and protein carbonyl (45%) in jejunal mucosa, resulting in a 39% ADG increase. Lactic acid bacteria reduced TNF-α (36%), increasing 51% ADG, whereas Bacillus spp. reduced IL6 (27%), increasing BW (12%). Lactobacillus postbiotic increased BW (14%) and the diversity of beneficial bacteria. Phytobiotics reduced TNF-α (23%) and IL6 (21%), enhancing feed efficiency (37%). Additional interventions, including low crude protein formulation, antibacterial minerals, prebiotics, and organic acids, can be effectively used to combat F18+E. coli infection. These findings collectively underscore a range of effective strategies for managing the challenges posed by F18+E. coli in pig production.

Characterization of β-Glucans from Cereal and Microbial Sources and Their Roles in Feeds for Intestinal Health and Growth of Nursery Pigs

The objectives of this review are to investigate the quantitative, compositional, and structural differences of β-glucans and the functional effects of β-glucans on the intestinal health and growth of nursery pigs. Banning antibiotic feed supplementation increased the research demand for antibiotic alternatives to maintain the intestinal health and growth of nursery pigs. It has been proposed that β-glucans improve the growth efficiency of nursery pigs through positive impacts on their intestinal health. However, based on their structure and source, their impacts can be extensively different. β-glucans are non-starch polysaccharides found in the cell walls of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), bacteria, fungi (Basidiomycota), and cereal grains (mainly barley and oats). The total β-glucan content from cereal grains is much greater than that of microbial β-glucans. Cereal β-glucans may interfere with the positive effects of microbial β-glucans on the intestinal health of nursery pigs. Due to their structural differences, cereal β-glucans also cause digesta viscosity, decreasing feed digestion, and decreasing nutrient absorption in the GIT of nursery pigs. Specifically, cereal β-glucans are based on linear glucose molecules linked by β-(1,3)- and β-(1,4)-glycosidic bonds with relatively high water-soluble properties, whereas microbial β-glucans are largely linked with β-(1,3)- and β-(1,6)-glycosidic bonds possessing insoluble properties. From the meta-analysis, the weight gain and feed intake of nursery pigs increased by 7.6% and 5.3%, respectively, through the use of yeast β-glucans (from Saccharomyces cerevisiae), and increased by 11.6% and 6.9%, respectively, through the use of bacterial β-glucans (from Agrobacterium sp.), whereas the use of cereal β-glucans did not show consistent responses. The optimal use of yeast β-glucans (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) was 50 mg/kg in nursery pig diets based on a meta-analysis. Collectively, use of microbial β-glucans can improve the intestinal health of nursery pigs, enhancing immune conditions, whereas the benefits of cereal β-glucans on intestinal health were not consistent.

Effects of β-glucan with vitamin E supplementation on the growth performance, blood profiles, immune response, fecal microbiota, fecal score, and nutrient digestibility in weaning pigs

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to evaluate effects of β-glucan with vitamin E supplementation on the growth performance, blood profiles, immune response, fecal microbiota, fecal score, and nutrient digestibility in weaning pigs.

METHODS

A total of 200 weaning pigs with an average body weight (BW) of 7.64±0.741 kg were allotted to five treatment groups and were divided based on sex and initial BW in four replicates with ten pigs per pen in a randomized complete block design. The experimental diets included a corn‒soybean meal-based basal diet with or without 0.1% or 0.2% β-glucan and 0.02% vitamin E. The pigs were fed the diets for 6 weeks. A total of 15 barrows were used to evaluate the nutrient digestibility by the total collection method. The BW and feed intake were measured at the end of each phase. Blood samples were collected at the end of each phase, and fecal samples were collected at the end of the experiment.

RESULTS

The addition of β-glucan with vitamin E to weaning pig feed increased BW, average daily gain, and average daily feed intake. A significant decrease in yeast and mold and Proteobacteria and a tendency for Lactobacillus to increase compared to the control was shown when 0.1% β-glucan and 0.02% vitamin E were added. The fecal score in weaning pigs was lower in the treatments supplemented with 0.1% or 0.2% β-glucan and 0.02% vitamin E compared to the control. In addition, vitamin E was better supplied to weaning pigs by increasing the concentration of α-tocopherol in the blood of weaning pigs when 0.02% vitamin E was supplemented. However, there was no significant difference in either the immune response or nutrient digestibility.

CONCLUSION

Inclusion of 0.1% β-Glucan with 0.02% vitamin E in a weaning pig's diet were beneficial to the growth performance of weaning pigs by improving intestinal microbiota and reducing the incidence of diarrhea.

Effects of β-glucan with vitamin E supplementation on the physiological response, litter performance, blood profiles, immune response, and milk composition of lactating sows

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of β-glucan with vitamin E supplementation on the physiological response, litter performance, blood profiles, immune response, and milk composition of lactating sows.

METHODS

A total of 50 multiparous F1 sows (Yorkshire×Landrace) with an average body weight (BW) of 233.6±4.30 kg and an average parity of 4.00±0.307 and their litters were used in this experiment. All sows were allotted to one of five treatments, taking into consideration BW, backfat thickness, and parity in a completely randomized design with 10 replicates. The experimental diets included a corn-soybean meal-based basal diet with or without 0.1% or 0.2% β-glucan and 110 IU vitamin E/kg diet.

RESULTS

All treatments added with β-glucan or vitamin E were statistically higher in the average daily feed intake (ADFI) of lactating sows compared to those of the control (Diet, p<0.01). Additionally, the ADFI of lactating sows was significantly higher in the groups supplemented with 0.1% β-glucan compared to 0.2% β-glucan (BG, p<0.01). There was an increasing trend in piglet weight at weaning (BG, p = 0.07), litter weight at the 21st day of lactation (BG, p = 0.07) and litter weight gain (BG, p = 0.08) in groups supplemented with 0.1% β-glucan. The addition of 110 IU vitamin E/kg diet increased vitamin E concentration significantly in lactating sows (VE, p<0.01) and exhibited a trend for higher concentrations of vitamin E (VE, p = 0.09) in piglets. Adding 0.1% β-glucan compared to 0.2% β-glucan induced a decrease in the concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α in lactating sows (BG, p = 0.06) and in piglets (BG, p = 0.09) on the 21st day of lactation. There were no significant differences in the milk composition of sows.

CONCLUSION

Adding 0.1% β-glucan and 110 IU vitamin E/kg to a lactating sow's diet was beneficial to the growth performance of piglets by leading to an increase in the feed intake of sows and efficiently supplying vitamin E to both the sows and piglets.

The effects of dietary supplementation with mushroom or selenium enriched mushroom powders on the growth performance and intestinal health of post-weaned pigs

BACKGROUND

There is an urgent need to identify natural bioactive compounds that can enhance gastrointestinal health and promote pig growth performance in the absence of pharmacological levels of zinc oxide (ZnO). The objectives of this study were to: 1) compare the effects of mushroom powder supplemented with inorganic selenium (inSeMP) to mushroom powder enriched with organic selenium (orgSeMP) to pharmacological levels of ZnO on growth performance and faecal scores (FS) for the first 21 d post-weaning (Period 1); and 2) compare the molecular and microbial effects of inSeMP and orgSeMP in these pigs on d 39 post-weaning (Period 2).

METHODS

In Period 1, pigs (3 pigs/pen; 8 pens/treatment) were assigned to: (1) basal diet (control); (2) basal diet + zinc oxide (ZnO) (3100 mg/kg d 1-14, 1550 mg/kg d 15-21); (3) basal diet + mushroom powder supplemented with inorganic selenium (inSeMP) containing selenium (selenite) content of 0.3 mg/kg feed; (4) basal diet + mushroom powder enriched with organic selenium (orgSeMP) containing selenium (selenocysteine) content of 0.3 mg/kg feed. Mushroom powders were included at 6.5 g/kg of feed.

RESULTS

In Period 1, there was no effect of diets on average daily gain (ADG) and gain:feed (G:F) ratio (P > 0.05). The orgSeMP supplemented pigs had a lower average daily feed intake (ADFI) compared to all other groups (P < 0.05). The ZnO supplemented pigs had reduced FS compared to the basal and mushroom group, while the orgSeMP supplemented pigs had lower FS compared to the basal group during the 21 d experimental period (P < 0.05). In Period 2, there was no effect of diets on ADFI, ADG and G:F ratio (P > 0.05). The orgSeMP supplementation increased the caecal abundance of bacterial members of the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phylum, including Lactobacillus, Agathobacter, Roseburia, and Prevotella and decreased the abundance of Sporobacter compared to the basal group, while inSeMP increased the caecal abundance of Prevotella and decreased the caecal abundance of Sporobacter compared to the basal group (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with inSeMP increased expression of TLR4 and anti-inflammatory cytokine gene IL10 and decreased nutrient transporter gene FABP2 compared to the orgSeMP group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

OrgSeMP is a novel and sustainable way to incorporate selenium and β-glucans into the diet of weaned pigs whilst improving FS and modulating the caecal microbiota.

Yeast culture supplementation of sow diets regulates the immune performance of their weaned piglets under lipopolysaccharide stress

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of sows with yeast cultures (XPC) during late gestation and lactation on the immune performance of their weaned offspring under lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stress. A total of 40 Landrace × Yorkshire sows (parity 3 to 7) with similar backfat thickness were selected and randomly divided into two treatment groups: a control group (basal diet) and a yeast culture group (basal diet + 2.0 g/kg XPC). The trial was conducted from day 90 of gestation to day 21 of lactation. At the end of the experiment, 12 piglets with similar weights were selected from each group and slaughtered 4 h after intraperitoneal injection with either saline or LPS. The results showed that the concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the thymus and tumor necrosis factor-α in the liver increased significantly (P < 0.05) in weaned piglets after LPS injection. Maternal dietary supplementation with XPC significantly reduced the concentration of inflammatory factors in the plasma and thymus of weaned piglets (P < 0.05). LPS injection significantly upregulated the expression of some tissue inflammation-related genes, significantly downregulated the expression of intestinal tight junction-related genes, and significantly elevated the protein expression of liver phospho-nuclear factor kappa B (p-NF-κB), the phospho-inhibitory subunit of NF-κB (p-IκBα), phospho-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), Nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), and the inhibitory subunit of NF-κB (IκBα) in weaned piglets (P < 0.05). Maternal dietary supplementation with XPC significantly downregulated the gene expression of IL-6 and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the thymus and decreased the protein expression of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in the liver of weaned piglets (P < 0.05). In summary, injection of LPS induced an inflammatory response in weaned piglets and destroyed the intestinal barrier. Maternal dietary supplementation of XPC improved the immune performance of weaned piglets by inhibiting inflammatory responses.

Use of Microorganisms as Nutritional and Functional Feedstuffs for Nursery Pigs and Broilers

The objectives of this review paper are to introduce the structures and composition of various microorganisms, to show some applications of single cells as alternative protein supplements or energy feeds in swine and poultry diets, and to discuss the functional effects of microorganisms as feed additives on the growth performance and intestinal health of nursery pigs and broilers. Microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, and microalgae, have been commonly supplemented in animal diets because they are cost-effective, stable, and have quantitative production that provides nutritional and functional benefits to pigs and broilers. Microorganisms could be alternative antibiotics to enhance intestinal health due to bioactive components from cell wall components, which interact with receptors on epithelial and immune cells. In addition, bioactive components could be digested by intestinal microbiota to produce short-chain fatty acids and enhance energy utilization. Otherwise, microorganisms such as single-cell protein (SCP) and single-cell oils (SCOs) are sustainable and economic choices to replace conventional protein supplements and energy feeds. Supplementing microorganisms as feedstuffs and feed additives improved the average daily gain by 1.83%, the daily feed intake by 0.24%, and the feed efficiency by 1.46% in pigs and broilers. Based on the properties of each microorganism, traditional protein supplements, energy feeds, and functional feed additives could be replaced by microorganisms, which have shown benefits to animal's growth and health. Therefore, specific microorganisms could be promising alternatives as nutritional and functional feedstuffs in animal diets.

Evaluation of digestively resistant or soluble fibers, short- and medium-chain fatty acids, trace minerals, and antibiotics in nonchallenged nursery pigs on performance, digestibility, and intestinal integrity

Three experiments (EXP) were conducted to determine the effect of feed additives on performance, intestinal integrity, gastrointestinal volatile fatty acids (VFA), and energy and nutrient digestion in nonchallenged nursery pigs. In EXP 1, 480 pigs (6.36-kg body weight, BW) were placed into 96 pens with 5 pigs/pen, and allotted to 1 of 10 dietary treatments: 1) negative control containing no feed additive (NC), 2) NC + 44 mg chlortetracycline and 38.5 mg tiamulin/kg diet (CTsb), 3) NC + 5% resistant potato starch (RSpo), 4) NC + 5% soluble corn fiber (SCF), 5) NC + 5% sugar beet pulp (SBP), 6) NC + 0.30% fatty acid mix (FAM), 7) NC + 0.10% phytogenic blend of essential oils and flavoring compounds (PHY), 8) NC + 50 mg Cu and 1,600 mg zinc oxide/kg diet (CuZn), 9) NC + 5% resistant corn starch (RScn), and 10) NC + 0.05% β-glucan (BG) for 28 d. There was no impact of dietary treatment on BW gain or feed intake (P ≥ 0.22). Pigs fed diets containing SCF, CTsb, and RSpo resulted in microbial community differences compared to pigs fed the NC (P < 0.05). In EXP 2, 48 barrows (12.8 kg BW) were selected at the end of EXP 1 and fed the same dietary treatments they had previously received: 1) NC, 2) NC + 5% RScn, 3) NC + 5% SCF, and 4) NC + FAM for 8 d. There was no effect of feeding diets containing RScn, SCF, or FAM on in vivo intestinal permeability (P ≤ 0.21). Ileal or colon pH, concentrations of VFA did not differ due to dietary treatment (P ≥ 0.36), but pigs fed diets containing FAM resulted in a greater butyric acid concentration in the cecum compared to pigs fed the NC (P ≤ 0.05). In EXP 3, 156 pigs (6.11 kg BW) were placed into 52 pens with 3 pigs/pen and allotted to 1 of 4 dietary treatments arranged in a factorial manner: 1) NC, 2) NC + 5% RSpo, 3) NC + 0.30% FAM, and 4) NC + 5% RSpo + 0.30% FAM for 24 d. Feeding pigs diets containing RSpo did not affect BW gain (P = 0.91) while pigs fed diets containing FAM grew improved BW gain (P = 0.09). Colonic butyric acid concentrations were greater in pigs fed diets containing RSpo (P = 0.03), while pigs fed diets containing FAM exhibited reduced total VFA concentrations (P = 0.11). The results indicate that supplementing diets with digestively resistant but fermentable fibers, short- and medium-chain fatty acids, or antibiotics do not have a consistent effect, positive or negative, on markers of intestinal integrity or barrier function, intestinal VFA patterns, ATTD of energy and nutrients, or on pig performance.

An important polysaccharide from fermentum

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Extraction, structure and modification of polysaccharides from fermentum were summarized.

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Structure-activity relationship and application of polysaccharides from fermentum were reviewed.

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It provided a strong basis for the development and application of polysaccharides from fermentum.

Fermentum is a common unicellular fungus with many biological activities attributed to β-polysaccharides. Different in vivo and in vivo experimental studies have long proven that fermentum β-polysaccharides have antioxidant, anti-tumor, and fungal toxin adsorption properties. However, there are many uncertainties regarding the relationship between the structure and biological activity of fermentum β-polysaccharides, and a systematic summary of fermentum β-polysaccharides is still lacking. Herein, we reviewed the research progress about the extraction, structure and modification, structure–activity relationship, activity and application of fermentum β-polysaccharides, compared the extraction methods of fermentum β-polysaccharide, and paid special attention to the structure–activity relationship and application of fermentum β-polysaccharide, which provided a strong basis for the development and application of fermentum β-polysaccharide.

Improving growth performance and blood profile by feeding autolyzed yeast to improve pork carcass and meat quality

The 63 commercial pigs were divided into three groups consisting of seven replicates of three piglets each. The experimental diets were (1) control diet, (2) diet with autolyzed yeast (AY) 0.5%, and (3) diet with AY 1.0%. Compared to the control group, using AY 0.5% in the diet reduced average daily feed intake (ADFI) and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) (p < 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N/L) in blood decreased with the addition of AY 0.5% (p < 0.05). The pH at 6-h postmortem of meat in the 0.5% AY diet group was higher than for the control group (p < 0.05). Backfat thickness (p = 0.09) and P2-backfat thickness (p = 0.07) tended to decrease, while the fat free index (FFI; p = 0.07) tended to increase with 0.5% AY supplementation. The protein percentage (p = 0.07) and the a* value (redness) (p = 0.08) in the meat tended to increase, and the springiness increased with 0.5% AY supplementation (p < 0.05). An appropriate level of AY supplementation can impact positively on the physiological functions in swine with a consequent seems to improve in qualitative traits of the meat quality.

Effects of Yarrowia lipolytica supplementation on growth performance, intestinal health and apparent ileal digestibility of diets fed to nursery pigs

Objective

The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of increasing supplementation of Yarrowia lipolytica (YL) up to 3.0% replacing 1.6% poultry fat and 0.9% blood plasma for growth performance, intestinal health and nutrient digestibility of diets fed to nursery pigs.

Methods

Twenty-four pigs weaned at 24 d of age (initial body weight at 7.2±0.6 kg) were allotted to three dietary treatments (n = 8) based on the randomized complete block. The diets with supplementation of YL (0.0%, 1.5%, and 3.0%, replacing poultry fat and blood plasma up to 1.6% and 0.9%, respectively) were fed for 21 d. Feed intake and body weight were recorded at d 0, 10, and 21. Fecal score was recorded at every odd day from d 3 to 19. Pigs were euthanized on d 21 to collect proximal and distal jejunal mucosa to measure intestinal health markers including tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-8, immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin G. Ileal digesta was collected for apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of nutrients in diets. Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed of SAS.

Results

Supplementation of YL (1.5% and 3.0%) replacing poultry fat and blood plasma did not affect growth performance, fecal score and intestinal health. Supplementation of YL at 1.5% did not affect nutrient digestibility, whereas supplementation of YL at 3.0% reduced AID of dry matter (40.2% to 55.0%), gross energy (44.0% to 57.5%), crude protein (52.1% to 66.1%), and ether extract (50.8% to 66.9%) compared to diets without supplementation.

Conclusion

Yarrowia lipolytica can be supplemented at 1.5% in nursery diets, replacing 0.8% poultry fat and 0.45% blood plasma without affecting growth performance, intestinal health and nutrient digestibility. Supplementation of YL at 3.0% replacing 1.6% poultry fat and 0.9% blood plasma did not affect growth performance and intestinal health, whereas nutrient digestibility was reduced.

Grazing and Supplementation of Dietary Yeast Probiotics Shape the Gut Microbiota and Improve the Immunity of Black Fattening Goats (Capra hircus)

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different feeding modes on the growth performance, gut microbiota, and immunity of Black Fattening Goat (Capra hircus). A total of 30 goats were grouped in three groups by their feeding modes (pasture grazing group, PG; barn feeding group, BF; barn feeding + probiotics, BF + P; n = 10) and the study was performed for 114 days. After a 2-week adaptation period, the first growth performance test was conducted, and the blood and fecal samplings (day 0) were collected on January 17, 2020, while the second and third test and samplings were conducted on days 53 and 100 of feeding. The species-composition of fecal microbiota was analyzed by 16S ribosomal RNA gene-sequencing using PacBio single molecule real time (SMRT) sequencing technology. Both the BF and BF + P groups had the highest (P < 0.05) body’s weight and length, and chest circumference at days 53 and 100, especially at day 100, the body’s weight of both the BF groups were more than 18 kg. The levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) were found to be significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the PG and BF + P groups at day 100. The PG group exhibited the highest number of operational taxonomic unit (OTUs) and alpha diversity. Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Verrucomicrobia were the predominant phyla in all the fecal samples. The relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila and Ruminococcus flavefaciens were found to be significantly higher (P < 0.05) in PG group and BF + P group at day 100, respectively, which might partially explain the significantly higher (P < 0.05) levels of IgA and IgG in these two groups. These findings suggested that BF supplemented with 5 g probiotics (Saccharomyces cerevisiae and mannan oligosaccharides) per day has the potential to enhance the growth and immunity of Black Fattening Goats.

The effects of mushroom powder and vitamin D2 -enriched mushroom powder supplementation on the growth performance and health of newly weaned pigs

A complete randomised block design experiment was conducted to examine the effects of mushroom powder (MP) and vitamin D₂ -enriched mushroom powder (MPD₂ ) on growth performance, faecal scores, coefficient of apparent total tract digestibility (CATTD) of nutrients and selected microflora in weaned pigs up to day 35 post-weaning. One hundred and ninety-two weaned pigs (7.8kg [SD 1.08kg]) were blocked according to live weight, sex and litter of origin and randomly assigned to the following: (T1) control diet; (T2) control diet +MP; (T3) control diet + MPD₂ ; and (T4) control diet +zinc oxide (ZnO) (n = 12 replicates/treatment). Mushroom powders were included at 2 g/kg of feed achieving a β-glucan content of 200ppm. ZnO was included at 3100 mg/kg feed and halved to 1550 mg/kg after 21 days. Vitamin D content was enhanced in MPD₂ using synthetic UVB exposure to obtain a vitamin D₂ level of 100 µg/kg of feed. Faecal samples were collected on day 14 for microbial and nutrient digestibility analysis. There was no difference (p > 0.05) in ADG, G:F, faecal scores, microbial populations and CATTD of nutrients in pigs supplemented with MP or MPD₂ compared with the control diet. The supplementation of MP and MPD₂ caused a reduction (p < 0.05) in feed intake compared with the control and ZnO diet throughout the 35-day experimental period. ZnO supplementation increased ADG and ADFI (p < 0.05) during the first period (D0-21) compared with pigs offered MP and MPD₂ . In conclusion, MP and MPD₂ supplementation resulted in similar ADG, G:F, faecal scores compared with the control but were not comparable to ZnO, mainly due to a reduction in feed intake.

Influence of Yeast Products on Modulating Metabolism and Immunity in Cattle and Swine

Nutritional supplementation has been used by livestock producers for many years in order to increase animal performance, improve animal health, and reduce negative effects associated with enteric and/or respiratory pathogens. Supplements such as yeast and yeast-based products have broad applications across many livestock production systems, including poultry, aquaculture, cattle, and swine and have been shown to benefit animal production at various stages. These benefits include improvement in milk production, weight gain and feed conversion, as well as immune function. Initial research into the mode of action for these effects has focused on stimulation of the immune system by the β-glucan fractions of yeast. However, emerging studies have revealed that some of the beneficial effects of yeast products may stem from altering metabolism, including the availability of glucose and fatty acids. These changes in metabolism, and potentially energy availability, may partially explain differences in immune function observed in yeast-supplemented livestock, as the energy demands of an activated immune system are extremely high. Thus, this paper explores the influence of yeast products on metabolism in cattle and swine, and how changes in metabolism and energy availability may contribute to improvements in immune function in supplemented animals.

Structure, preparation, modification, and bioactivities of β-glucan and mannan from yeast cell wall: A review

In order to solve the antibiotic resistance, the research on antibiotic substitutes has received an extensive attention. Many studies have shown that β-glucan and mannan from yeast cell wall have the potential to replace antibiotics for the prevention and treatment of animal diseases, thereby reducing the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens. β-Glucan and mannan had a variety of biological functions, including improving the intestinal environment, stimulating innate and acquired immunity, adsorbing mycotoxins, enhancing antioxidant capacity, and so on. The biological activities of β-glucan and mannan can be improved by chemically modifying its primary structure or reducing molecular weight. In this paper, the structure, preparation, modification, and biological activities of β-glucan and mannan were reviewed, which provided future perspectives of β-glucan and mannan.

The anti-inflammatory effects of low- and high-molecular-weight beta-glucans from Agrobacterium sp. ZX09 in LPS-induced weaned piglets

The physicochemical characteristics of beta-glucans determine the immune responses of the intestines and whole body. It is hypothesized that glucans with different molecular weights have diverse modes of action on LPS-mediated immune activity. This study aimed to verify the immune-modulatory effects of two types of beta-glucans in LPS-induced weaned piglets. The results indicated that dietary beta-glucan supplementation could prevent losses in body weight gain caused by LPS challenge. Supplementation with different molecular weights of beta-glucans decreased the production of IL-1β and TNF-α and increased IL-10 production, which is likely associated with key factors such as TLR4 and NF-κB. High-molecular-weight beta-glucans seemed to have a strong functional capacity to modulate the innate immune response through the Dectin-1 receptor. Therefore, the results indicate that supplementing piglets with Agrobacterium sp. ZX09 beta-glucans inhibits LPS-mediated depression in the growth performance and plays a protective role during LPS challenge possibly via the Dectin-1 receptor and the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. The results reveal the potential therapeutic activity of purified Agrobacterium sp. ZX09 beta-glucan following experimental LPS infusion.

Dietary supplementation with hydrolyzed yeast and its effect on the performance, intestinal microbiota, and immune response of weaned piglets

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of autolyzed yeast on performance, cecal microbiota, and leukogram of weaned piglets. A total of 96 piglets of commercial line weaned at 21-day-old were used. The experimental design was a randomized block design with four treatments (diets containing 0.0%, 0.3%, 0.6%, and 0.9% autolyzed yeast), eight replicates, and three animals per pen in order to evaluate daily weight gain, daily feed intake, and feed conversion in periods of 0 to 15, 0 to 26, and 0 to 36 days. Quadratic effects of autolyzed yeast inclusion were observed on the feed conversion from 0 to 15 days, on daily weight gain from 0 to 15 days, 0 to 26 days and, 0 to 36 days, indicating an autolyzed yeast optimal inclusion level between 0.4% and 0.5%. No effect from autolyzed yeast addition was observed on piglet daily feed intake, cecal microbiota, and leukogram; however, i.m. application of E. coli lipopolysaccharide reduced the values ​​of total leukocytes and their fractions (neutrophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and rods). Therefore, autolyzed yeast when provided at levels between 0.4% and 0.5% improved weaned piglets' performance.

Micro-encapsulated essential oils and organic acids combination improves intestinal barrier function, inflammatory responses and microbiota of weaned piglets challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F4 (K88+)

This study evaluated the effects of micro-encapsulated (protected) organic acids (OA) and essential oils (EO) combination, P(OA + EO), and effects of a regular blend of free acids (FA) on the growth, immune responses, intestinal barrier and microbiota of weaned piglets challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) F4 (K88⁺). A total of 30 crossbred (Duroc × Landrace × Large White) weaned barrows (7.41 ± 0.06 kg, 28 d old) were assigned randomly to 5 treatments: 1) non-challenged positive control (PC), 2) ETEC F4 (K88⁺)-challenged negative control (NC), 3) NC + kitasamycin at 50 mg/kg + olaquindox at 100 mg/kg + free acidifier (FA) at 5 g/kg, 4) NC + kitasamycin at 50 mg/kg + olaquindox at 100 mg/kg + P(OA + EO) at 1 g/kg (P1), 5) NC + kitasamycin at 50 mg/kg + olaquindox at 100 mg/kg + P(OA + EO) at 2 g/kg (P2). Each dietary treatment had 6 replicates of one piglet each and the study lasted for 3 wk. On d 7, pigs in NC, FA, P1 and P2 were orally dosed with 10 mL of ETEC F4 (K88⁺) culture (1 × 10⁹ CFU/mL). From d 7 to 14 after the ETEC F4 (K88⁺) challenge, P1 increased gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) significantly (P < 0.05) compared with NC and FA groups. From d 14 to 21, P2 increased the average daily gain of pigs (P < 0.05) compared with NC and FA groups. Compared with NC, P2 reduced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 concentrations (P < 0.05) in sera collected at 4 h later after ETEC F4 (K88⁺) challenge. On d 21, P1 increased occludin and zonula occludens-1 protein expression in ileum compared with NC (P < 0.05). After this 3-wk experiment, alpha diversity of gut microbiota was decreased by P2 compared with PC, and P1 increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus in ileum, cecum and colon (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary P(OA + EO) additive at 2 g/kg combined with antibiotics could improve piglet performance and attenuate inflammation, and P(OA + EO) additive at 1 g/kg combined with antibiotics improved intestinal barrier and increased beneficial microbiota composition after an F4 (K88⁺) challenge.

Effect of anti-inflammatory compounds or antibiotic administration on receiving performance and physiological responses of transported heifers

The objectives of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of products with anti-inflammatory properties (yeast product [YEA; 20 g/heifer daily] or astragalus polysaccharide [APS; 20 g/heifer daily]) or an antibiotic (TUL, tulathromycin; 0.025 mL/kg body weight [BW]) on receiving performance and stress responses of transported heifers. Angus heifers (n = 80) were ranked by BW (315 ± 6 kg) and assigned to one of four treatments (five pens per treatment, four heifers per pen) 7 d before shipping 1,400 km (day -7): 1) fed a basal diet of ad libitum hay and concentrate supplement (CON) from day -7 to day 29; 2) YEA in supplemental concentrate from day -7 to day 7 (YEA); 3) APS in supplemental concentrate from day -7 to day 7 (APS); 4) administration of TUL at loading for shipping (day 0; TUL). Upon arrival at the receiving facility (day 1), heifers within each treatment were ranked by BW and assigned to 20 feedlot pens in the same manner as pre-transport. Daily dry matter intake (DMI) was recorded from day 1 to day 28. Full BW was recorded on days -7, -1, 0, 1, 28, and 29. Blood samples were collected on days -7, -1, 1, 4, 7, 14, and 28. Over the receiving period, average daily gain (ADG) and gain: feed did not differ (P ≥ 0.19) for YEA, APS, and TUL, which were greater (P ≤ 0.01) than CON. Average daily gain was also lower (P < 0.01) for CON vs. YEA, APS, and TUL from day -7 to day 28. During the first week of receiving, hay, concentrate, and total DMI were lower (P < 0.01) in CON than the YEA, APS, and TUL, but did not differ (P ≥ 0.13) among these three groups. Hay and total DMI were still lower (P < 0.01) in CON vs. TUL in the second week. Total DMI was greater (P = 0.01) for TUL vs. YEA, and greater (P < 0.01) for YEA vs. CON. Serum nonesterified fatty acid concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.05) for CON and TUL vs. YEA and APS on day 1. Plasma cortisol concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.05) for YEA and CON vs. APS and TUL on day 1. Serum tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations were lower (P ≤ 0.05) for APS vs. CON, YEA, and TUL on days 1 and 4. Plasma haptoglobin concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.05) for CON vs. YEA, APS, and TUL on days 1 and 4, greater (P ≤ 0.05) for YEA, APS vs. TUL on day 1, and greater (P = 0.03) for YEA vs. TUL on day 4. Plasma ceruloplasmin concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.05) for CON vs. YEA, APS and TUL vs. APS on days 1, 4, and 7. In conclusion, YEA, APS, and TUL modulated the physiological stress responses and alleviated the performance losses caused by long-distance transportation.

Innate Immunomodulation in Food Animals: Evidence for Trained Immunity?

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant problem in health care, animal health, and food safety. To limit AMR, there is a need for alternatives to antibiotics to enhance disease resistance and support judicious antibiotic usage in animals and humans. Immunomodulation is a promising strategy to enhance disease resistance without antibiotics in food animals. One rapidly evolving field of immunomodulation is innate memory in which innate immune cells undergo epigenetic changes of chromatin remodeling and metabolic reprogramming upon a priming event that results in either enhanced or suppressed responsiveness to secondary stimuli (training or tolerance, respectively). Exposure to live agents such as bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) or microbe-derived products such as LPS or yeast cell wall ß-glucans can reprogram or "train" the innate immune system. Over the last decade, significant advancements increased our understanding of innate training in humans and rodent models, and strategies are being developed to specifically target or regulate innate memory. In veterinary species, the concept of enhancing the innate immune system is not new; however, there are few available studies which have purposefully investigated innate training as it has been defined in human literature. The development of targeted approaches to engage innate training in food animals, with the practical goal of enhancing the capacity to limit disease without the use of antibiotics, is an area which deserves attention. In this review, we provide an overview of innate immunomodulation and memory, and the mechanisms which regulate this long-term functional reprogramming in other animals (e.g., humans, rodents). We focus on studies describing innate training, or similar phenomenon (often referred to as heterologous or non-specific protection), in cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, and fish species; and discuss the potential benefits and shortcomings of engaging innate training for enhancing disease resistance.

The effect of a feed additive supplemented with porcine plasma protein on growth performance and selected biochemical indices of nursing piglets

The aim of this study was to evaluate the health state, performance, and selected serum biochemical indices in nursing piglets after supplementation of a feed additive containing porcine plasma protein in comparison to the control group fed a standard pre-starter feed mixture. The study was carried out in the conditions of industrial farming. Four sows of the Large White swine breed with their litters were included in the study. Piglets were homogenously distributed into control (22) and experimental (24) groups according to weight and sex. Piglets in both groups suckled their mothers' milk. In addition, piglets in the experimental group were also fed a feed supplemented by porcine plasma protein (5%), starting on the third day post partum, whereas piglets in the control group were offered a standard pre-starter feed mixture. We recorded average daily weight gains calculated per the 27-day trial, and body weight at weaning. Clinical findings, mortality, and selected biochemical indices of protein (total immunoglobulins, total protein, albumin, creatinine, urea), and energy (glucose, total cholesterol, total lipids) metabolism were assessed as well. Results of the study showed a significant difference (P < 0.01) in average daily weight gains in the experimental group compared to the control group (0.245 kg and 0.177 kg, respectively). Addition of plasma protein in the experimental group also resulted in a significantly higher serum concentration of total immunoglobulins, total protein and creatinine, and a significantly lower concentration of urea and albumin in this group compared to the control group at weaning.

Effect of dietary supplementation with brewer's yeast hydrolysate on growth performance, faecal microbial counts, diarrhoea score, blood profile, rectal temperature in weanling pigs challenged with lipopolysaccharide

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of brewer's yeast hydrolysate (BYH) supplementation on growth performance, blood profile, diarrhoea score, faecal microbial and rectal temperature in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenged in weanling pigs. A total of 40 cross-bred weanling pigs [(Yorkshire × Landrace) × Duroc] with an average body weight of 8.15 ± 0.87 kg were used in a 6 weeks experiment. Pigs were randomly allotted to the following four dietary treatments (five pigs/two replicate/treatment) according to their initial body weight and gender. Treatments were as follows: CON, basal diet + Saline injection; NC, basal diet + LPS challenge; PC1, basal diet + 1.0% BYH + saline injection; and PC2, basal diet + 1.0% BYH + LPS challenge. Our results demonstrated pig fed diets with BYH had higher (p < .05) average daily feed intake (ADFI) during week 2-4 as well as gain:feed (G:F) during the whole experimental period than pigs fed diets without BYH. At the end of experiment, faecal Escherichia coli counts in pigs with an LPS injection tended to increase (p = .08). Meanwhile, the rectal temperature concentration of IgM and lymphocyte percentage in pigs with an LPS injection increase (p = .05) at 6 and 12 hr. In conclusion, the supplementation of 1.0% BYH can improve ADFI and G:F, as well as may reduce the diarrhoea in weanling pigs.

Beta-glucan from Agrobacterium sp. ZX09 improves growth performance and intestinal function in weaned piglets

Beta-glucan is currently under consideration as an alternative to in-feed antibiotics. The aim of the study was to investigate Agrobacterium sp. ZX09 beta-glucan on intestinal morphology, cytokine concentration, mucin expression and microbial populations of weaning piglets. Pigs were randomly assigned to one of five dietary treatments supplemented with 0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg beta-glucan. Data showed an increase in ADG at the 100 mg/kg group (p = .03). A significant increase in villus height and reduction in crypt depth were fund in ileal tissue at the 100 mg/kg inclusion level (p < .05). Dietary supplementation of 100 mg/kg beta-glucan enhanced IL-10 concentration (p = .04) and gene expression of MUC1 and MUC2 (p < .05) in the jejunum. Dietary supplementation of 100 mg/kg beta-glucan provoked the up-regulation of Lactobacillus counts and down-regulation of Escherichia coli counts in the caecum (p = .05). Data suggested that improved growth performance in response to beta-glucan supplementation at 100 mg/kg in weaned piglets may be explained by the improved intestinal function.

Immunomodulatory effects of whole yeast cells and capsicum in weanling pigs challenged with pathogenic Escherichia coli1

An experiment was conducted to evaluate growth performance, fecal bacterial counts, frequency of diarrhea, and clinical blood parameters in weanling pigs inoculated with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) who were fed a whole yeast cell (WYC) product and capsicum, a plant essential oil. Weanling pigs (34 barrows and 30 gilts, 21 d of age, 5.90 ± 1.03 kg BW) were allotted to experimental treatments in a randomized complete block design based on litter, sex, and initial BW. Four pigs were individually housed within each containment chamber and assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments, which included a control diet without or with 0.2% WYC (CitriStim; ADM, Decatur, IL) or 10 ppm of capsicum (XTract 6933; Pancosma, Geneva, Switzerland), provided either alone or in combination. After receiving diets for 13 d, pigs were orally inoculated with F18+ ETEC and maintained on their assigned diets for an additional 10 d; a separate cohort of 12 pigs receiving the control diet was sham-inoculated using PBS. Body and feeder weights were recorded, and fecal swabs collected, on 0, 5, and 10 d postinoculation (DPI), with blood sampled at 0, 2, 7, and 10 DPI for isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Pigs challenged with ETEC and fed diets containing WYC or capsicum alone had a higher frequency of diarrhea when compared with pigs receiving diets without those compounds (P < 0.05). Total fecal bacterial counts in pigs fed the combination of additives were highest when compared with either additive alone (interaction, P = 0.03) at 10 DPI. Blood leukocyte counts were increased in challenged pigs receiving the combination of additives compared with all other challenged treatment groups (interaction, P = 0.04). The addition of WYC increased (main effect, P = 0.01) lymphocyte counts at 7 DPI. Proportions of CD8+ and CD4+CD8+ cells were lower in pigs fed the combination of additives compared with pigs fed either additive alone at 0 and 7 DPI. In conclusion, these data indicate that the combination of the 2 additives elicited higher ETEC shedding and circulating leukocyte counts, and reduced the proportions of cytotoxic and memory T-cells than either additive alone.

Effect of supplementation with brewer's yeast hydrolysate on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, blood profiles and meat quality in growing to finishing pigs

Objective

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of brewer’s yeast hydrolysate (YH) on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, blood profiles and meat quality of growing pigs.

Methods

A total of 200 growing pigs ([Landrace×Yorkshire]×Duroc) (initial body weight, 25.31±1.29 kg) were allotted to 5 treatments as follow: CON, basic diet; and YH treatment, CON+0.05%, 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1.0% of YH, respectively.

Results

On wk 11, 16 and overall phase, pigs fed YH diet showed a linear improvement in average daily body gain and gain/feed (p<0.05). The pigs that received YH linearly increased the digestibility of dry matter, nitrogen, and energy on wk 11 and 16. The concentration of serum urea nitrogen was linearly increased in YH treatments on wk 16. However, the carcass weight, back fat and lean muscle percentage of pigs receiving YH had no significant change. Besides, no difference was observed in creatinine and total protein in the blood among treatments.

Conclusion

The pigs fed a graded YH diet had improved growth performance and nutrient digestibility, meanwhile, the YH increased the serum urea nitrogen in the growing pigs.

Growth performance of nursery pigs fed diets containing increasing levels of a novel high-protein corn distillers dried grains with solubles

The objective of this study was to use the recently determined ME and standardized ileal digestibility (SID) values of AA for a novel high-protein distillers dried grains with solubles (HP-DDGS; PureStream 40, Lincolnway Energy LLC, Nevada, IA) to determine the optimal dietary inclusion rates in diets for nursery pigs. Three hundred and sixty pigs (BW = 6.79 ± 0.02 kg) were blocked by BW, and pens within blocks were assigned randomly to one of four dietary treatments (10 pens/treatment, 9 pigs/pen). Dietary treatments consisted of adding 0%, 10%, 20%, or 30% HP-DDGS to nursery diets during phase 2 (days 7-21) and phase 3 (days 21-42) of a three-phase nursery feeding program. Diets within each phase were formulated to contain equivalent amounts of ME, SID Lys, Met, Thr, and Trp, Ca, standardized total tract digestible P, vitamins, and trace minerals. Calculated SID Leu to Lys ratios for 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% HP-DDGS diets were 119%, 137%, 156%, and 173% in phase 2 diets and 120%, 131%, 143%, and 160% in phase 3 diets. The SID Ile to Lys ratios ranged from 60% to 69% in phase 2 diets and from 54% to 59% in phase 3 diets. The SID Val to Lys ratios ranged from 63% to 79% in phase 2 diets and 64% to 68% in phase 3 diets. Body weight and feed disappearance were measured weekly. During phase 2, ADG, ADFI, and G:F were reduced linearly (P < 0.01) as the diet inclusion rate of HP-DDGS increased. Similarly in phase 3, increasing dietary levels of HP-DDGS depressed ADG, ADFI, and G:F linearly (P < 0.01). Overall growth performance of phases 2 and 3 of nursery pigs was negatively affected by increasing levels of HP-DDGS in these diets. Pigs acquired a Streptococcus suis and Escherichia coli disease challenge during the experiment. Although no differences in morbidity were observed throughout the experiment, including HP-DDGS in diets tended to decrease (P = 0.08) mortality. In conclusion, a linear decrease in nursery pig growth performance was observed as increasing levels of HP-DDGS were added in diets, which was probably due to overestimation of SID AA content of the HP-DDGS, antagonistic effects of excess Leu, and the effects of relatively high fiber content.

Oat beta-glucan as a dietary supplement for dogs

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of oat beta-glucan supplementation on metabolic, physiological, immunological and nutritional variables in adult dogs. Fourteen dogs were fed a control diet or a diet supplemented with 1% beta-glucan during 71 days. Serum concentrations of glucose, total cholesterol and lipoprotein fractions, as well as plasma concentrations of peptide YY and ghrelin, were determined. In addition, coefficient of total tract apparent macronutrient digestibility (CTTAD), food intake and fecal output, score, and pH were evaluated. For evaluation of immunological variables, serum concentrations of interleukin-4 and interferon gamma were determined on days 0, 57 and 71, which corresponded to blood collection prior to beta-glucan supplementation, and at 7 and 14 days post first and second dose of vaccination (Pneumodog^®, Merial, Campinas, Brazil), respectively. Animals fed the supplemented diet showed (P<0.05) lower serum concentrations of total cholesterol and low and very low density lipoproteins, lower coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, mineral matter and ether extract, higher fecal output and lower fecal consistency, as well as a tendency (P = 0.07) of decreasing the coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility of crude protein. Moreover, the supplemented diet resulted in lower number of red blood cells, hematocrit percentage and hemoglobin concentration 21 days post-vaccination as well as lower serum concentration of interleukin-4 seven days post-vaccination (P<0.05). It is concluded that oat beta-glucan extract can be used as a dietary supplement for dogs at a dose of 10 g/kg of food, being effective in reducing blood concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL-c and VLDL-c as well as CTTAD of nutrients, demonstrating a potential to be used in the feeding of obese animals. In addition, by reducing the predominance of a Th2 response, oat beta-glucan can positively modulate the vaccine response of animals.

Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and selected fecal microbiota are improved by β-glucan supplementation in weaner pigs

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary β-glucan supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profiles, and fecal characteristics in weaner pigs. A total of 140 weaner pigs [(Yorkshire × Landrace) × Duroc] with an average body weight of 6.37±1.14 kg were allotted to one of the following dietary treatments: 1) negative control (NC, basal diet); 2) positive control (PC, basal diet supplemented with 39 ppm Tiamulin); 3) basal diet supplemented with 0.1% β-glucan (G1); 4) basal diet supplemented with 0.2% β-glucan (G2). During days 22 to 42 and 1 to 42, pigs offered PC and G2 diets grew faster than those offered NC diet (P<0.05). Additionally, during the same periods, pigs fed G2 and PC diets exhibited improved gain:feed ratio compared to pigs receiving NC and G1 diets (P<0.05). Pigs fed G2 diet exhibited higher coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility of dry matter than those fed NC diet (P<0.05). There were no differences on blood profiles, fecal scores, fecal moisture, and fecal pH (P>0.05). Fecal lactic acid bacteria counts in G2 treatment were higher compared with PC and NC treatments (P<0.05). Coliform bacteria concentrations were decreased in pigs fed PC and G2 diets compared with those fed NC diet (P<0.05). In conclusion, the results of the current study indicate that dietary supplementation of 0.2% β-glucan can improve growth performance and dry matter digestibility, increase fecal lactic acid bacteria concentration but decrease fecal coliform bacteria concentration in weaner pigs.

Effect of dietary supplementation with Yarrowia lipolytica or Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast and probiotic additives on haematological parameters and the gut microbiota in piglets

The objective of the study was to compare the efficiency of two species of yeast, Yarrowia lipolytica (YL) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), with or without a probiotic supplement, added to feed for piglets, on the basis of haematological blood indices and the gut microbiota. A total of 360 piglets (the average 27-d-old) were allotted to dietary treatments: 1) the basal control(C) diet, 2) the C diet + probiotic(P) (a mixture of Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus subtilis), 3) the C diet +3%YL(Y), 4) the C diet +3%YL + probiotic(YP), 5) the C diet +3%SC(S) and 6) the C diet +3%SC + probiotic(SP). The study showed that YL yeast can be used in compound feeds for piglets interchangeably with SC yeast. The effect of YL on haematological blood parameters and the microbes colonizing the gut proved to be more beneficial than the effect of SC yeast. The combined application of YL or SC with a probiotic had a more favourable effect on the gut microbiota than the use of yeast alone. It should be noted, however, that supplementation of the compound feed with YL in combination with a probiotic reduced the multiplication of coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli in the intestinal contents, while the feed containing SC together with a probiotic did not. The dietary study confirmed that YL in combination with a probiotic is highly suitable for feeding piglets.

Protective effect of β-glucan and glutamine on intestinal and immunological damage in mice induced by cytarabine (Ara-C)

ABSTRACT: Recently, glutamine and β-glucan have been demonstrated to play an important role in modulation of the immune system and in promoting intestinal health benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of this intervention on inflammatory responses and intestinal health in mice orally pretreated with soluble Saccharomyces cerevisiae derived 1,3/1,6-β-glucan (80mg/kg) with or without glutamine (150mg/kg) and then challenged with cytarabine (Ara-C) (15mg/kg). Improvements in villi and crypts were not observed in the β-glucan group. The intestinal morphometry in the glutamine group showed the best results. β-glucan in combination with glutamine presented the highest values of IL-1β and IL-10 and lowest values for leukocytes and INF-γ. Based on these results, combined β-glucan and glutamine pretreatment reduced intestinal inflammation and improved the immune response after Ara-C challenge.

Supplementation of pigs diet with zinc and copper as alternative to conventional antimicrobials

Modern commercial pig farming systems inflict increased stress in animals, which often leads to various negative changes in the gastro-intestinal tract, especially in the case of piglets. Ban of antibiotics, used as growth promoters, has caused a need for alternatives to conventional antimicrobials in swine diets. Use of pre-/or probiotics, organic acids and plant extracts is often recommended, but it seems that zinc oxide and cooper salts, which were traditionally included in high doses to piglets diet, possess the highest efficacy. In commercial conditions feeding piglets with high doses of Zn and/or Cu stimulates piglets daily gain and decreases feed conversion factor. However, as heavy metals Zn and Cu tend to accumulate in soil and cause serious environmental pollution of soil and tap-water. Furthermore, high zinc concentrations (2500÷3000 mg/kg feed) in feed may have an impact on development of antimicrobial resistance, and may regulate the expression of genes that modify piglets' immune response. Therefore, the use of high doses of ZnO and/or Cu salts, as growth promoter, has always been a subject of discussion, and caused different legal status of such treatment in various EU countries. This short review describes current European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) point of view on the use of ZnO in medicated feed. The higher bioavailability of recently introduced new sources or forms of these metals allows for substantial reduction of dietary inclusion rate, which should have a positive outcome for pigs health and the environment.

Short-term effect of supplemental yeast extract without or with feed enzymes on growth performance, immune status and gut structure of weaned pigs challenged with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide

Background

This study investigated the response of piglets receiving a yeast extract without or with a multi-enzyme mixture compared with an antimicrobial growth promoter (AGP) on performance, immune status and gut structure after an E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Thirty-six pigs were allotted to six treatments including: a non-challenged control (NCC); LPS-challenged control (CC); CC + AGP; CC + yeast extract; CC + enzymes; and CC + enzymes + yeast extract. On d 7, pigs were bled and thereafter injected with LPS or sterile saline. Blood samples were collected at 6, 48, and 96 h post-challenge. After 96 h post-challenge, pigs were euthanized to obtain duodenal, jejunal and ileal samples.

Results

Overall (d 1 to 11), compared with CC pigs, AGP attenuated the LPS-induced reduction in ADG (P = 0.004), ADFI (P = 0.03) and gain/feed ratio (P = 0.01). At 6 h post-challenge, AGP pigs had lower plasma urea N (PUN; P = 0.02) and serum TNF- α concentration (P = 0.07), and higher platelet count (P = 0.04) and serum IL-10 concentration (P = 0.02) than CC pigs. At 48 h post-challenge, AGP pigs had lower PUN (P = 0.02) than CC pigs, whereas enzymes + yeast extract interacted non-additively (P = 0.001) to reduce PUN. At 96 h post-challenge, AGP pigs had lower PUN (P = 0.02) and higher duodenal (P = 0.03), jejunal (P = 0.01) and ileal (P = 0.07) villus height than CC pigs. In addition, enzymes + yeast extract interacted additively and non-additively to reduce ileal IFN-γ (P < 0.0001) and IL-10 (P = 0.012) expression, respectively. Generally, no differences (P > 0.10) were observed between AGP and enzymes + yeast extract pigs on other measured parameters except for the downregulation of ileal IFN-γ (P < 0.0001) and TNF-α (P = 0.003) in enzymes + yeast extract pigs at 96 h post-challenge.

Conclusions

The LPS challenged piglets receiving enzymes + yeast extract showed beneficial responses in gut structure and immunity commensurate with those receiving antibiotics, though the latter had better overall growth performance.

Short fungal fractions of β-1,3 glucans affect platelet activation

Platelets are capable of binding, aggregating, and internalizing microorganisms, which enhances the elimination of pathogens from the blood. The yeast Candida albicans is a pathobiont causing life-threatening invasive infections. Its cell wall contains β-1,3 glucans that are known to trigger a wide range of host cell activities and to circulate during infection. We studied the effect of β-1,3 glucan fractions (BGFs) consisting of diglucosides (Glc2), tetraglucosides (Glc4), and pentaglucosides (Glc5) on human platelets, their mechanisms of action, and their possible impact on host defenses. The effect of BGFs on the coagulation process was determined by measuring thrombin generation. Platelets pretreated with BGFs were analyzed in terms of activation, receptor expression, aggregation, and adhesion to neutrophils and to C. albicans The results show that BGFs affected the endogenous thrombin potential in a concentration-dependent manner. For platelet activation, BGFs at a low concentration (2 μmol/l) reduced ATP release and prevented the phosphorylation of protein kinase C. BGFs diminished the expression of P-selectin and the activation of αIIbβ3 BGFs decreased platelet aggregation and the interaction between thrombin-stimulated platelets and neutrophils, fibrinogen, and C. albicans GLc5 decreased ATP release and TGF-β1 production in response to TLR4 upregulation in thrombin-stimulated platelets, but TLR4 blockage abolished the effect of BGFs on platelets. This study provides evidence that fungal pentaglucosides modulate platelet activity mediated via TLR4 stimulation and reduce platelet-neutrophil interaction.