Effects of the different dietary fibers on luminal microbiota composition and mucosal gene expression in pig colons

Abstract

Abstract To investigate the distinctive mechanism behind different types of fibers, this study compared the effects of inulin (INU), raw potato starch (RPS), pectin (PEC) enriched diets on the microbiota composition, and the mucosal transcriptome in pig colons. Results showed that PEC enriched diet significantly increased richness estimator (Chao) of colonic microbiota, relative abundances of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, and decreased Bacteroidetes, whereas INU and RPS induced a roughly similar microbiota composition to the control. PEC changed the expression of genes (CD8A, B2M and CD19) involving antigen processing and presentation, and primary immunodeficiency pathways, and up-regulated 2 active genes (UGT2B31 and LOC100738495) involving the metabolism of important endogenous compounds (e.g. bile acids and steroid hormones). Results indicate that the consumption of apple pectin with high viscosity may lead to a distinct response on microbiota composition and gene expression in pig colons, and result in a potential negative impact on gut health.