Increased Propionate Production Research Articles

Rapid Screening of Methane-Reducing Compounds for Deployment in Livestock Drinking Water Using In Vitro and FTIR-ATR Analyses

Several additives have been shown to reduce enteric methane emissions from ruminants when supplied in feed. However, utilising this method to deliver such methane-reducing compounds (MRCs) in extensive grazing systems is challenging. Use of livestock drinking water presents a novel method to deliver MRCs to animals in those systems. This work evaluated 13 MRCs for suitability to be deployed in this manner. Compounds were analysed for solubility and stability in aqueous solution using Fourier transform infrared-attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy. Furthermore, aqueous solutions of MRCs were subjected to variations in temperature and starting pH of water used to assess solubility and stability of the MRCs in simulated water trough conditions, also using FTIR-ATR spectroscopy. In vitro batch culture fermentations were carried out using a medium-quality tropical grass feed substrate, to simulate pastures consumed by cattle in extensive grazing systems. Measurements were made of total gas and methane production, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration. Of the MRCs tested, 12 were found to be soluble and stable in water using the FTIR method employed, whilst the other could not be measured. Of the 12 soluble and stable MRCs, one containing synthetic tribromomethane (Rumin8 Investigational Veterinary Product) reduced methane production by 99% (p = 0.001) when delivered aqueously in vitro, without a reduction in IVDMD (p = 0.751), with a shift towards decreased acetate and increased propionate production and decreased total VFA production (p < 0.001). Other compounds investigated also appeared suitable, and the methods developed in this study could be used to guide future research in the area.

91 Awardee Talk: Using respiration calorimetry to estimate energy balance to estimate energy balance and methane emissions

Abstract Understanding relationships between chemical components of the diet and methane production will allow nutritionists to develop formulation strategies to decrease methane emissions. Diets that produce acetate liberate hydrogen that can be used by methanogenic archaea to produce methane. Propionate is a hydrogen sink and diets that lead to increased propionate production decrease acetate and methane production. The objective was to evaluate relationships between methane emissions and dietary chemical components and feed intake using published databases and make diet formulation recommendations that could be used to decrease methane production in finishing beef cattle. A total of 263 treatment mean observations from respiration calorimetry studies with beef cattle and dairy steers and heifers were used to evaluate relationships between methane emissions, dietary chemical components, and feed intake. Among the chemical components evaluated, dietary neutral detergent fiber and starch were strongly related to methane yield. The relationship between dietary ether extract and methane yield was variable and there was no relationship between dietary crude protein concentration and methane yield. Additionally, the ratio of metabolizable energy relative to gross energy intake had a strong relationship to methane yield. Formulation strategies to increase dietary starch and decrease dietary neutral detergent fiber should allow the feedlot industry to decrease enteric methane production.

The effect of silkworms (Bombyx mori) chitosan on rumen fermentation, methanogenesis, and microbial population in vitro.

Ruminant enteric methane (CH4) is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. To minimize environmental harm caused by ruminants' CH4 production, natural substances can be used to suppress it. Chitosan from crustacean sources had been known to obstruct CH4 generation in the rumen. About 18% of silkworm pupae is chitin, but little is known about the impact of silkworm pupae chitosan on rumen methanogenesis. This study investigated the efficacy of the silkworm chitosan extraction method and its impact on rumen fermentation, methanogenesis, and microbial growth in vitro. This study employed a randomized complete block design featuring five treatments and four batches for rumen incubation as the blocking factor. In this study, five treatments were implemented: Control (CO) (basal diet with no added chitosan), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the Chinese Silkworm strain 804 (CHI804), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the PS 01 Hybrid Silkworm strain (CHIPS01), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the Hybrid F1 Japanese 102 × Chinese 202 races (CHIJC02), and basal diet with 6% commercial shrimp shell chitosan as the positive control (CHICOMM). The in vitro experiments assessed digestibility, pH, total gas generation, CH4 production, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and short-chain fatty acid levels, along with microbial population. Data were analyzed using a general linear model followed by Duncan's test when applicable. A significant effect on dry matter digestibility (DMD), total gas production, CH4, NH3-N, and rumen microbial populations (Methanogens, Ruminoccocus albus, Ruminoccocus flavefaciens, Selonomonas ruminantium, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Streptoccocus bovis, Prevotella spp., and Bacteroides spp.) was observed (p < 0.05). The extracted chitosan (CHIJC02) used in this study exhibited a similar quality to that of commercial chitosan (CHICOMM). CHI804 treatment could reduce gas production, NH3-N production, and B. fibrisolvens population significantly (p < 0.05), while CHIJC02 could reduce CH4 production, methanogen population, acetate (C2) production, and increase propionate (C3) production significantly (p < 0.05). CHIJC02 and CHICOMM treatments could also increase the population of R. flavefaciens, S. ruminantium, and Bacteroides spp. significantly (p < 0.05). Chitosan addition significantly (p < 0.05) reduced DMD but did not impact organic matter digestibility or pH. The extracted chitosan mimics commercial chitosan in physico-chemical properties. Chitosan derived from Japanese and Chinese F1 hybrid silkworm strains demonstrated superior capacity for inhibiting CH4 generation compared to commercial chitosan. The quality and effects on methanogenesis, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial populations can differ depending on the origin of chitosan.

Human gut microbiota and their production of endocannabinoid-like mediators are directly affected by a dietary oil

ABSTRACT Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and the gut microbiome affect each other. We investigated the impact of supplementation with Buglossoides arvensis oil (BO), rich in stearidonic acid (SDA), on the human gut microbiome. Employing the Mucosal Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (M-SHIME), we simulated the ileal and ascending colon microbiomes of four donors. Our results reveal two distinct microbiota clusters influenced by BO, exhibiting shared and contrasting shifts. Notably, Bacteroides and Clostridia abundance underwent similar changes in both clusters, accompanied by increased propionate production in the colon. However, in the ileum, cluster 2 displayed a higher metabolic activity in terms of BO-induced propionate levels. Accordingly, a triad of bacterial members involved in propionate production through the succinate pathway, namely Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, and Phascolarctobacterium, was identified particularly in this cluster, which also showed a surge of second-generation probiotics, such as Akkermansia, in the colon. Finally, we describe for the first time the capability of gut bacteria to produce N-acyl-ethanolamines, and particularly the SDA-derived N-stearidonoyl-ethanolamine, following BO supplementation, which also stimulated the production of another bioactive endocannabinoid-like molecule, commendamide, in both cases with variations across individuals. Spearman correlations enabled the identification of bacterial genera potentially involved in endocannabinoid-like molecule production, such as, in agreement with previous reports, Bacteroides in the case of commendamide. This study suggests that the potential health benefits on the human microbiome of certain dietary oils may be amenable to stratified nutrition strategies and extend beyond n-3 PUFAs to include microbiota-derived endocannabinoid-like mediators.

A Review of Potential Feed Additives Intended for Carbon Footprint Reduction through Methane Abatement in Dairy Cattle.

Eight rumen additives were chosen for an enteric methane-mitigating comparison study including garlic oil (GO), nitrate, Ascophyllum nodosum (AN), Asparagopsis (ASP), Lactobacillus plantarum (LAB), chitosan (CHI), essential oils (EOs) and 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP). Dose-dependent analysis was carried out on selected feed additives using a meta-analysis approach to determine effectiveness in live subjects or potential efficacy in live animal trials with particular attention given to enteric gas, volatile fatty acid concentrations, and rumen microbial counts. All meta-analysis involving additives GO, nitrates, LAB, CHI, EOs, and 3-NOP revealed a reduction in methane production, while individual studies for AN and ASP displayed ruminal bacterial community improvement and a reduction in enteric CH4. Rumen protozoal depression was observed with GO and AN supplementation as well as an increase in propionate production with GO, LAB, ASP, CHI, and 3-NOP rumen fluid inoculation. GO, AN, ASP, and LAB demonstrated mechanisms in vitro as feed additives to improve rumen function and act as enteric methane mitigators. Enzyme inhibitor 3-NOP displays the greatest in vivo CH4 mitigating capabilities compared to essential oil commercial products. Furthermore, this meta-analysis study revealed that in vitro studies in general displayed a greater level of methane mitigation with these compounds than was seen in vivo, emphasising the importance of in vivo trials for final verification of use. While in vitro gas production systems predict in vivo methane production and fermentation trends with reasonable accuracy, it is necessary to confirm feed additive rumen influence in vivo before practical application.

Effects of starch content of calf starter on rumen properties and blood concentrations of metabolites and hormones in dairy calves under a high plane of milk feeding.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of calf starters with different starch content on rumen and blood properties in calves fed under a high plane of nutrition program. Twenty-seven Holstein calves (14 female, 13 male) were assigned to one of three starter treatment groups in a randomized block design: high-starch (41.8%) (n= 9), H; medium-starch (31.9%) (n= 9), M; low-starch (22.0%) (n= 9), L. Milk replacer on powder basis was fed up to 1.2kg/day as fed, gradually reduced from 6weeks of age; calves were weaned at 8weeks of age. Each starter (up to 3.5kg/day as fed) and chopped hay were provided ad libitum from 5days of age. Blood was collected from 4 to 13 weeks of age. Rumen fluid was collected at 6, 8, 10, and 13 weeks of age. Serum urea nitrogen concentration after weaning was the lowest in H. Plasma IGF-1 concentrations were higher in H than in L. Ruminal pH was not different, but the molar proportion of ruminal propionate was higher in H than in L throughout the study period. In summary, a high-starch starter may increase propionate production and microbial protein synthesis in the rumen, inducing higher plasma IGF-1 concentrations.

Combined effects of vitamin B12 and fumarate on rumen propionate production and methanogenesis in dairy cow in vitro

AbstractThis study explored the combined effects of vitamin B12 and fumarate supplementation on methane (CH4) emission and propionate synthesis in dairy cows through simulated rumen fermentation in vitro. The experimental animals were 3 cows with an average milk yield of 23 ± 2.8 kg/d, a body weight of 618 ± 100 kg, and a parity of 3 ± 1 that were selected as rumen fluid donors. The TMR diet fed to cows is a fermentation substrate. Experiments adopted 2 × 2 factorial design, including control group, vitamin group (1 mg/g DM vitamin B12), fumarate group (100 mg/g DM), and combined addition group (1 mg/g DM vitamin B12 and 100 mg/g DM). All treatments had no effect on the dry matter degradation (DMD). Both vitamin B12 and fumarate reduced CH4 emission, increased the propionate concentration, and reduced the acetate/propionate ratio without any observed interaction. Vitamin B12 made Prevotella and Prevotellaceae_ UCG‐003 increase in quantity, and fumarate increased the abundance of Succinivibrionaceae_UCG‐002 and Selenomonas, both of which are propionate‐producing bacteria. At the species level, the supplementation of vitamin B12 and fumarate slightly changed the abundance of some strains, but it was not statistically significant. Shifts in the abundance of propionate‐producing bacteria and methanogenic archaea species suggest an increase in propionate production and a decrease in CH4 emission. In conclusion, the addition of vitamin B12 and fumarate changed the fermentation mode of the rumen and reduced the emission of CH4 by affecting the structure of the rumen microbial community, but no obvious interaction was found between the two.

Comparing the impact of mixed-culture microbial communities and fecal transplant on the intestinal microbiota and metabolome of weaned piglets.

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an emerging technique for modulating the pig microbiota, however, donor variability is one of the major reasons for inconsistent outcomes across studies. Cultured microbial communities may address some limitations of FMT; however, no study has tested cultured microbial communities as inocula in pigs. This pilot study compared the effects of microbiota transplants derived from sow feces to cultured mixed microbial community (MMC) following weaning. Control, FMT4X, and MMC4X were applied four times, while treatment FMT1X was administered once (n = 12/group). On postnatal day 48, microbial composition was modestly altered in pigs receiving FMT in comparison with Control (Adonis, P = .003), mainly attributed to reduced inter-animal variations in pigs receiving FMT4X (Betadispersion, P = .018). Pigs receiving FMT or MMC had consistently enriched ASVs assigned to genera Dialister and Alloprevotella. Microbial transplantation increased propionate production in the cecum. MMC4X piglets showed a trend of higher acetate and isoleucine compared to Control. A consistent enrichment of metabolites from amino acid metabolism in pigs that received microbial transplantation coincided with enhanced aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis pathway. No differences were observed among treatment groups for body weight or cytokine/chemokine profiles. Overall, FMT and MMC exerted similar effects on gut microbiota composition and metabolite production.

Effects of partially hydrolyzed guar gums of different molecular weights on a human intestinal in vitro fermentation model

Partially hydrolyzed guar gums (PHGGs) are prebiotic soluble dietary fibers. High molecular-weight PHGGs have rapid fermentation and high short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) productivity rates, compared to low molecular-weight PHGGs. Therefore, low molecular-weight PHGGs may have less pronounced prebiotic effects than high molecular-weight PHGGs. However, the effects of PHGGs of different molecular weights on the human intestinal microbiota, as well as their fermentation ability and prebiotic effects, have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two PHGGs of different molecular weights, Sunfiber-R (SF-R; 20kDa) and Sunfiber-V (SF-V; 5kDa), on human colonic microbiota and SCFA production. A human intestinal invitro fermentation model was operated by fecal samples with and without the PHGGs. The addition of 0.2% SF-R or SF-V increased the relative abundance of Bacteroides spp., especially that of Bacteroides uniformis. This increase corresponded to a significant (p=0.030) and non-significant (p=0.073) increase in propionate production in response to SF-R and SF-V addition, respectively. Both fibers increased the relative abundance of Faecalibacterium and stimulated an increase in the abundance of unclassified Lachnospiraceae and Bifidobacterium. In conclusion, the low molecular-weight PHGG exerted prebiotic effects on human colonic microbiota to increase SCFA production and bacteria that are beneficial to human health in a manner similar to that of the high molecular-weight forms of PHGG.

Chronic consumption of a blend of inulin and arabinoxylan reduces energy intake in an ad libitum meal but does not influence perceptions of appetite and satiety: a randomised control-controlled crossover trial.

Prebiotic foods can be used to increase production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the gut. Of the SCFA, propionate is credited with the strongest anorectic activity. In previous work, a 50/50 blend of inulin and arabinoxylan was produced (I + AX) that significantly increased propionate production in an in vitro gut model. This study sought to establish whether chronic consumption of a prebiotic blend of I + AX decreases appetite and energy intake and increases intestinal propionate production in human participants. MIXSAT (clinicaltrials.gov id: NCT02846454, August 2016) was a double-blind randomised acute-within-chronic crossover feeding trial in healthy adult men (n = 20). Treatments were 8g per day I + AX for 21days or weight-matched maltodextrin control. The primary outcome measure was perceived satiety and appetite during an acute study visit. Secondary outcomes were energy intake in an ad libitum meal, faecal SCFA concentration, and faecal microbiota composition. Perceived satiety and appetite were not affected by the intervention. I + AX was associated with a reduction in energy intake in an ad libitum meal, increased faecal SCFA concentration, and an increase in cell counts of Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli, and other microbial genera associated with health. Chronic consumption of this blend of prebiotics decreased energy intake in a single sitting. Further studies are needed to confirm mechanism of action and to determine whether this might be useful in weight control.

Batch culture analysis to identify potent organic acids for suppressing ruminal methane production.

We performed an in vitro rumen batch culture study to screen 11 commercially available organic acids for methane-suppressing ability and analyzed the rumen microbiota to determine the mode of action of the acids that showed potent methane-suppressing activity. Nine of the 11 acids showed methane-suppressing activity. Maleic anhydride, itaconate, citrate, and fumarate, which showed the highest activity, were further examined. These four acids showed methane-suppressing activity irrespective of the hay-to-concentrate ratios of the substrate. Maleic anhydride and itaconate decreased total gas and short-chain fatty acid production. Maleic anhydride and fumarate increased propionate production, while itaconate increased butyrate production. Maleic anhydride, itaconate, and citrate increased lactate production. Fumarate increased the abundance of bacteria involved in propionate production. Maleic anhydride, itaconate, and citrate increased the abundance of bacteria involved in lactate production. Thus, the results indicate that maleic anhydride, itaconate, and citrate may decrease methane in part by stimulating the acrylate pathway.

Effects of nitrate sources on in vitro methane production and ruminal fermentation parameters in diets differing in starch degradability

We evaluated the effects of nitrate (NO3−) sources supplemented in diets differing in starch degradability on in vitro DM and NDF degradability, methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) production, and ruminal fermentation parameters. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design with a 5 × 2 factorial arrangement. Treatments were five sources of non-protein nitrogen (NPN), including urea (URE), potassium NO3− (PON), calcium-ammonium NO3− (CAN), dolomite-ammonium NO3− (DAN), and ammonium NO3− (AMN), supplemented on total-mixed rations constituted with either high-moisture corn (HMC) or dry rolled corn (DRC).In vitro DM and NDF degradability, gas production, CH4 and N2O emissions, and VFA and ammonia-N concentrations were evaluated after 12 and 24 h of incubation. All experimental procedures were repeated in three runs and run was used as a blocking factor.In vitro DM and NDF degradability were not affected by NO3− sources. Nitrate supplementation decreased CH4 production (mmol/ g DM degraded) by 23 % compared to URE regardless of the source. Concomitantly, N2O emissions were increased by all NO3− sources, with the highest amount (1.24 ppm) for PON after 24 h of incubation. High-moisture corn diets improved in vitro DM and NDF degradability, increased propionate production, and consequently reduced acetate: propionate ratio. Methane production (mmol/g DM degraded) was reduced by 34 % in HMC diets after 24 h of incubation when compared with DRC diets. No interactions were observed between NO3− and starch sources in all the evaluated parameters, leading us to conclude that NO3− sources acted independently at reducing CH4 production, regardless of the rate of ruminal starch degradation.

Marine by-products and insects as a potential chitosan source for ruminant feed additives

Chitosan is a hydrophilic polysaccharide produced from chitin that has a wide range of applications. Chitosan has several functions as an anti-microbial, methane reducer, and protein protective agent. Based on this function chitosan has been explored for its potential as a feed additive. Moreover, source and extraction technique have potentially affected the yield and degree of deacetylation (DD) of chitosan products. The present review provides information on various chitosan isolation processes in marine by-products and insects and the result of their DD and yield. Chemical isolation processes are still popular in industries compared with biological processes based on their DD and yield. Chitosan properties and yield from insects are comparable with those of commercial chitosan derived from a marine by-product. The application of chitosan as a feed additive is also highlighted in this review. Moreover, chitosan as a feed additive has the capability to decrease CH&lt;sub&gt;4&lt;/sub&gt; production, increase propionate production, reduce the acetate/propionate ratio, and improve nutrient utilization efficiency, and animal performance. Chitosan has the potential to be a beneficial natural and plentiful feed additive, particularly for reducing enteric methane emissions.

Supplementation of Molasses-Based Liquid Feed for Cattle Fed on Limpograss Hay.

Simple SummarySeasonality in forage production may limit the quantity and quality of forage. Even when forage is available in the period of scarcity, protein might still be a limiting nutrient in animal performance. Feed supplementation is a powerful tool to adjust nitrogen (N) levels in the diet of ruminants during critical periods. Urea is commonly used as a source of non-protein nitrogen in molasses supplements. This dietary protein provides amino acids as well as nitrogen for microbial protein synthesis. Moreover, molasses has organoleptic characteristics, such as palatability, increasing dry matter intake, through microbial growth, especially for fiber-digesting bacteria. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of different levels of liquid supplementation based on molasses enriched with 32% crude protein (as fed; 45% on DM basis) on ingestion, digestibility, and rumen fermentation. The results of this study indicated that addition of a molasses-based liquid feed to a Hemarthria altissima hay-based diet can improve the nutrient supply to animals; notably, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and microbial N. Liquid supplementation had an additive effect on intake of animals fed Hemarthria altissima hay but did not increase hay intake.Two experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of (1) different levels of liquid supplementation (LS) based on molasses enriched with 32% (as fed; 45% on DM basis) crude protein (CP) on intake of Hemarthria altissima hay (LH), digestibility, and rumen fermentation, and (2) different levels of LS based on molasses enriched with 32% CP in the in vitro gas production in LH diets. In Exp. 1, twelve heifers and 12 adult male castrated and cannulated cattle were used. Treatments were allocated in a randomized block design, in four treatments: (CTL) access ad libitum to the LH; (SUP2) ad libitum access to LH and supplementation with 0.9 kg d−1; (SUP4) ad libitum access to LH and supplementation with 1.8 kg d−1 and; (SUP6) ad libitum access to LH with 2.7 kg d−1. In Exp. 2, treatments were carried out in a randomized block design with four different proportions of LH diet: (CTL) 100 LH, (SUP2) 85 LH and 15 LS, (SUP4) 70 LH and 30 LS, (SUP6) 55 LH and 45% LS. In Exp. 1, liquid molasses-based supplementation did not affect LH intake (p > 0.05). Molasses intake improved as the supply increased, not reducing the intake of LH. In Exp. 2, the addition of LS to the LH caused a change in the VFA profile, with an increase in propionate production in vitro.

Metabolic engineering of threonine catabolism enables Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce propionate under aerobic conditions.

Propionate is widely used as a preservative in the food and animal feed industries. Propionate is currently produced by petrochemical processes, and fermentative production of propionate remains challenging. In this study, a synthetic propionate pathway was constructed in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, for propionate production under aerobic conditions. Through expression of tdcB and aldH from Escherichia coli and kivD from Lactococcus lactis, L-threonine was converted to propionate via 2-ketobutyrate and propionaldehyde. The resulting yeast aerobically produced 0.21 g L-1 propionate from glucose in a shake flask. Subsequent overexpression of pathway genes and elimination of competing pathways increased propionate production to 0.37 g L-1 . To further increase propionate production, carbon flux was pulled into the propionate pathway by weakened expression of pyruvate kinase (PYK1), together with overexpression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (ppc). The final propionate production reached 1.05 g L-1 during fed-batch fermentation in a fermenter. In this work, a yeast cell factory was constructed using synthetic biology and metabolic engineering strategies to enable propionate production under aerobic conditions. Our study demonstrates engineered S. cerevisiae as a promising alternative for the production of propionate and its derivatives.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae Dehydrated Culture Modulates Fecal Microbiota and Improves Innate Immunity of Adult Dogs

Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast culture can be dehydrated, and it has a potential prebiotic effect. This study evaluated the effects of supplementing increasing levels of dehydrated yeast culture (DYC) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Original XPC™, Diamond V, Cedar Rapids, IA, USA) on fecal microbiota, nutrient digestibility, and fermentative and immunological parameters of healthy adult dogs. Eighteen adult male and female dogs with a mean body weight of 15.8 ± 7.37 kg were randomly assigned to three experimental treatments: CD (control diet), DYC 0.3 (control diet with 0.3% DYC) and DYC 0.6 (control diet with 0.6% DYC). After 21 days of acclimation, fecal samples were collected for analysis of nutrient digestibility, microbiota and fecal fermentation products. On the last day, the blood samples were collected for the analysis of immunological parameters. The microbiome profile was assessed by the Illumina sequencing method, which allowed identifying the population of each bacterial phylum and genus. The statistical analyses were performed using the SAS software and the Tukey test for multiple comparison (p &lt; 0.05). Our results suggest that the addition of DYC increased the percentage of the phyla Actinobacteria and Firmicutes (p = 0.0048 and p &lt; 0.0001, respectively) and reduced that of the phylum Fusobacteria (p = 0.0008). Regardless of the inclusion level, the yeast addition promoted reduction of the genera Allobaculum and Fusobacterium (p = 0.0265 and p = 0.0006, respectively) and increased (p = 0.0059) that of the genus Clostridium. At the highest prebiotic inclusion level (DYC 0.6), an increase (p = 0.0052) in the genus Collinsella and decrease (p = 0.0003) in Prevotella were observed. Besides that, the inclusion of the additive improved the apparent digestibility of the crude fiber and decreased the digestibility of crude protein, nitrogen-free extract and metabolizable energy (p &lt; 0.05). There were no significant changes in the production of volatile organic compounds. However, an increase in propionate production was observed (p = 0.05). In addition, the inclusion of yeast resulted in an increased phagocytosis index in both treatments (p = 0.01). The addition of 0.3 and 0.6% DYC to the diet of dogs wase able to modulate the proportions of some phyla and genera in healthy dogs, in addition to yielding changes in nutrient digestibility, fermentative products and immunity in healthy adult dogs, indicating that this additive can modulate fecal microbiota and be included in dog nutrition.

IN VITRO METHANE PRODUCTION AND IN SITU DEGRADABILITY OF PRICKLY PEAR PRETREATED WITH YEAST CULTURES

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background&lt;/strong&gt;. Natural cycles and increases in temperature and droughts worldwide are being caused by the climate change effect. In addition, greenhouse gases (GHG) produced by anthropogenic causes are released to atmosphere. In this way, ruminants contribute with 30% of the total methane produced, whereas in Mexico this value represents over 50%. Since droughts are more frequent, production of forage sources which require more water are decreasing alarmingly. Due to the latter, researchers are looking for alternative forages which may alleviate this issue; &lt;em&gt;Opuntia ficus-indica&lt;/em&gt; arises as a good forage source. &lt;strong&gt;Objective.&lt;/strong&gt; To evaluate the effect of the solid state fermentation (SSF) of prickly pear with yeast cultures on &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt; gas production, ruminal fermentation parameters and &lt;em&gt;in situ&lt;/em&gt; degradability. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology.&lt;/strong&gt; Three experimental treatments were evaluated: solely prickly pear without previous SSF with yeast cultures (PP) as a control; PP+SC, previously fermented with &lt;em&gt;Saccharomyces cerevisiae&lt;/em&gt;; and PP+KM, previously fermented with &lt;em&gt;Kluyveromyces marxianus ITD00262&lt;/em&gt;. Treatments were fermented with ruminal liquor and dry matter and protein degradabilities, as well as ruminal fermentation parameters and gas production kinetics were measured. &lt;strong&gt;Results.&lt;/strong&gt; The results obtained showed that total degradability of DM increased due to yeast pretreatment (p&amp;lt;0.05). Crude protein degradability and total VFA decreased with PP+SC; however, PP+SC increased total gas production (p&amp;lt;0.05). Otherwise, PP+KM increased propionate production and decreased methane and CO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; production (p&amp;lt;0.05). &lt;strong&gt;Implications.&lt;/strong&gt; The information presented in this research is focused in the use of PP pretreated with yeast strains in order to increase the nutritional value by increasing its protein content. In addition, the presence of yeast cultures in feedstuffs contributes to decrease the methane synthesis in rumen. Additionally, the use of PP in arid and semiarid zones may increase the water availability for ruminants. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/strong&gt; The use of PP pretreated with strains of &lt;em&gt;Kluyveromyces marxianus&lt;/em&gt; into livestock feeding increases the protein availability and contributes to a reduction in the &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt; methane synthesis in 23%.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;

The Use of Monensin for Ketosis Prevention in Dairy Cows during the Transition Period: A Systematic Review.

Simple SummaryThe use of a controlled-release capsule of monensin for the prevention of ketosis in dairy cows, nowadays, has become widespread. In Europe, this is the only use of monensin permitted in dairy cows. Literature regarding the use of this molecule as a feed additive or controlled-release capsule is extensive, and results reported across studies vary with respect to the mode and dose of administration, target animals, and period of lactation. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize the literature observations regarding the use of monensin for the prevention of ketosis in dairy cows during the transition period.Since the approval by the European Medicines Agency in 2013 of a monensin controlled-release capsule (CRC) for the prevention of ketosis in dairy cows, there has been widespread use across Europe. In recent decades, several papers have investigated the effects of monensin used as a CRC or as a feed additive to improve cattle energy metabolism and improve feed efficiency. Since the CRC is the only form of monensin permitted in Europe in dairy cows, the objective of this review was to report and summarize observations from the literature on the effects of this treatment in transition cows. The peer-reviewed literature published from 1997 was scanned, and papers written in English were evaluated for eligibility. Only papers evaluating the use of monensin in dairy cows for the prevention of ketosis during the transition period were reviewed. In total, 42 papers met the required criteria and were included in this review. The major findings focused on cow metabolism and health, rumen fermentation and milk production and quality. Overall, the review of the existing literature confirmed that monensin delivered as a CRC during the transition period has effects of different magnitude compared to other forms, doses or durations of administration. Studies agree on the antiketotic effects of this treatment, showing evidence of an increased propionate production in the rumen, reduced blood β-hydroxybutyrate, and improved liver function in treated cows, mainly resulting in reduced incidence of peripartum disease. On the contrary, the effects of CRC on ammonia production and rumen microflora are less robust than those reported for other forms. Of importance for the European market is the well-documented absence of any negative impact on milk and cheese production and composition using the CRC treatment.

67 Current Status and Future Prospective of the Use of Plant Bioactive Compounds in Dairy and Beef Cattle

Abstract In the last 20 years there has been extensive in vitro research on the effects of plant extracts and essential oils on rumen microbial fermentation. The main objectives have been to improve energy metabolism through a reduction in methane emissions and an increase in propionate production; and to improve protein metabolism by reducing proteolysis and deamination. While the positive results from in vitro studies has stimulated the release of commercial products based on blends of essential oils, there is limited in vivo evidence on the rumen fermentation and production performance effects. A literature search was conducted to select in vivo studies where information on rumen fermentation and animal performance was reported. For dairy cattle, we identified 37 studies of which 21 were adequate to test production performance. Ten studies reported increases and 3 decreases in milk yield. For beef cattle, we identified 20 studies with rumen fermentation profile and 22 with performance data. Average daily gain improved in 7 and decreased in 1 study. Only 1 out of 16 studies reported an improvement in feed efficiency. Data indicate that out of more than 500 products tested in vitro, only around 20 have been tested in vivo in different mixtures and doses. The use of statistical approaches will allow to describe the conditions, doses and responses in dairy and beef cattle performance. The search for postruminal effects offers another alternative use. Evidence for effects on the intestinal and systemic effects on the immune system and antioxidant status (i.e., capsicum, garlic, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde curcuma, catechins, anethol or pinene), and in the modulation of metabolic regulation (capsicum, cinnamaldehyde, curcuma or garlic) may open the opportunity for future applications. However, stability of the product in the GI tract, description of the mechanisms of action and the impact of these changes on performance needs to be further demonstrated.

Efek suplementasi tepung kulit jengkol pada pelepah sawit fermentasi terhadap profil mikroba rumen dan produksi gas metan in vitro

&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Objective: &lt;/strong&gt;This research was aimed to evaluation the effect of supplementation jengkol peel powder in fermented oil palm fronds on rumen microbes profile and methane production on &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods: &lt;/strong&gt;The used design was factorial randomized block design with four treatments supplementation of jengkol peel powder at 0, 2, 4, and 6% and four groups as replications. The observed variables were rumen microbes profile (population of total bacteria, cellulolytic, and protozoa), methane production, partial &lt;em&gt;volatile fatty acid&lt;/em&gt; (VFA) proportion and acetate/propionate (A/P) ratio. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and different among treatments means examined by Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT).&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;The result showed that supplementation of jengkol peel powder at 6% substrate increased (P&amp;lt;0.05) total and cellulolytic bacteria population. Jengkol peel powder supplementation as much as 4 and 6% decreased (P&amp;lt;0.05) protozoa population, methane production, acetate proportion and A/P ratio. Supplementation of jengkol peel powder at 2% increased (P&amp;lt;0.05) propionate production.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="MDPI17abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions: &lt;/strong&gt;In conclusion, fermented oil palm fronds can be substituted with jengkol peel powder at 2% substrate that did not disturb rumen microbes profile, decreased methane production, acetate proportion, A/P ratio and increased propionate production on &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;