Abstract

Abstract The gut immune system consists of three lines of defense systems: barriers, innate immunity and adaptive or acquired immunity that work together to give ruminant gastrointestinal tract (GIT) protection from disease. The gastrointestinal tract is the largest immune organ of the body. The mucosal barrier- the tight junctions and the “kill zone” along with the gut mucosa and maintaining an “anti-inflammatory” state are essential for “good gut health”. The microbiome- the microorganisms in the GIT, which has more cells than the entire animal’s body, is essential for immune development, immune response, and maximizing ruminant productivity. Homeostasis is an important function of the gut immune response to maintain health. Management of bovine GIT immune system is not a simple process. Stressors along with the intake of feed and hydration affect the microbiome and the intestinal epithelial cells resulting in important immune interactions. Nutraceuticals (i.e., probiotics, prebiotics, hen yolk IgY, essential oils, organic acids) aid in both microbiome stability “homeostasis” and immune function.

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