Oral administration of Lactobacillus delbrueckii during the suckling period improves intestinal integrity after weaning in piglets

Abstract

Abstract This study was conducted to explore the effect of administrated Lactobacillus delbrueckii (LAB) during the suckling period on future intestinal integrity of the host, using a piglet model. Probiotic LAB increased final body weight, concentrations of immunoglobulin G and anti-inflammatory cytokines, but reduced diarrhea incidence by over 50% during any phase of experimental period. The intestinal villus height of the LAB-treated piglets were greater than that in the control piglets. Along with lower activity of serum diamine oxidase in the LAB piglets, there was a concurrent increase in mRNA expression of intestinal tight junctions proteins. We conclude that LAB, given to suckling piglets, stimulates immune response and improves intestinal morphology and barrier function, thereby mitigating diarrhea and promoting growth, importantly, these beneficial effects could be maintained up to 4 weeks after weaning. A proper utilization of LAB to neonates would be beneficial to future intestinal health.