Dietary Supplementation With Xylo-oligosaccharides Modifies the Intestinal Epithelial Morphology, Barrier Function and the Fecal Microbiota Composition and Activity in Weaned Piglets.

Jiayi Su,Cui Ma,Xiangfeng Kong,Francois Blachier,Peifeng Xie,Wanghong Zhang

doi:10.3389/fvets.2021.680208

Abstract

The present study determined the effects of dietary xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) supplementation on the morphology of jejunum and ileum epithelium, fecal microbiota composition, metabolic activity, and expression of genes related to colon barrier function. A total of 150 piglets were randomly assigned to one of five groups: a blank control group (receiving a basal diet), three XOS groups (receiving the basal diet supplemented with 100, 250, and 500 g/t XOS, respectively), as well as a positive control group, used as a matter of comparison, that received the basal diet supplemented with 0.04 kg/t virginiamycin, 0.2 kg/t colistin, and 3,000 mg/kg ZnO. The trial was carried out for 56 days. The results showed that the lowest dose tested (100 g/t XOS) increased (P < 0.05) the ileal villus height, the relative amount of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium spp., and the concentration of acetic acid and short-chain fatty acid in feces when compared with the blank control group. In conclusion, dietary 100 g/t XOS supplementation modifies the intestinal ecosystem in weaned piglets in an apparently overall beneficial way.

Highlights

Weaning is a critical stage for piglets that is associated with alterations in the morphology, architecture, and function of the gut, as well as changes in the enteric microbiota [1]
The five groups consisted of a blank control group, three groups receiving the basal diet supplemented with 100, 250, or 500 g/t XOS group (XOS is mixed in the basal diet as one of feed additives), as well as a comparative group receiving a classical mixture of compounds
It has been demonstrated that regarding oligo-saccharides, numerous types of these compounds may represent a potential alternative to antibiotic treatment for contributing to the maintenance of microbial composition and/or metabolic activity with positive effect on gut health [28]

Summary

Introduction

Weaning is a critical stage for piglets that is associated with alterations in the morphology, architecture, and function of the gut, as well as changes in the enteric microbiota [1]. Antibiotics and ZnO have long been incorporated into the diets of piglets to solve post-weaning problems [4], maybe by ameliorating the intestinal disorders that are concomitant with weaning. Their continuous use and misuse have led to the emergence of drug resistance, the risk of residual antibiotics in animal products, and Zn-residues. The country has limited the amount of zinc oxide in feed These regulations promoted the exploration of natural plant bioactive compounds, probiotics, prebiotics, and other potential alternatives as feed additives to improve productivity, welfare, and health of livestock and poultry [8]

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Discussion

Conclusion