Intestinal Nutrient Research Articles

Utilizing the apical-out enteroids in vitro model to investigate intestinal glucose transport, barrier function, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses in broiler chickens

IntroductionConventional 2D intestinal epithelial cell lines have been widely used in investigating intestinal functions, yet with limitations in recapitulating the in vivo gut physiology of chickens. A recently established chicken enteroid model with apical-out nature and the presence of leukocyte components represents intestinal mucosal functions. The objectives of this study were to 1) evaluate basic gut nutrient transport and barrier functions in this model and 2) identify the model’s effectiveness in studying inflammation and oxidative stress responses.MethodsEnteroids were generated from individual villus units isolated from the small intestine of Cobb500 broiler embryos. Enteroid viability, morphology, and epithelial cell markers were monitored; barrier function was evaluated based on the permeability to fluorescein isothiocyanate–dextran (FD4) with or without EDTA and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenges; nutrient transport was evaluated by fluorescence-labeled glucose (2NBD-G) with or without transporter blockade; the oxidative status was indicated by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Inflammatory and oxidative challenges were induced by LPS and menadione treatment, respectively. Selected marker gene expressions, including tight junction proteins (CLDN-1, CLDN-2, ZO-1, and OCCL), epithelial cell markers (Lgr-5, LYZ, and MUC-2), cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, and INF-γ), and antioxidant enzymes (Nrf-2, catalase, and SOD), were determined by using RT-qPCR. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA among treatment groups.ResultsEnteroid cell activity was stable from day (d) 2 to d 6 and declined at d 7. Epithelial cell marker and cytokine expressions were stable from d 4 to d 6. FD4 permeability was increased after the EDTA treatment (P ≤ 0.05). Transporter-mediated 2NBD-G absorption was observed, which was reduced with glucose transporter blockade (P ≤ 0.05). Enteroids showed classic responses to LPS challenges, including upregulated gene expressions of IL-1β and IL-6, downregulated gene expressions of ZO-1 and OCCL, and increased FD4 permeability (P ≤ 0.05). Enteroids showed increased ROS generation (P ≤ 0.05) in response to oxidative stress.DiscussionIn conclusion, this apical-out enteroid model is a stable alternative in vitro model that exhibits intestinal barrier, nutrient transport, oxidation, and inflammation functions. With this enteroid model, we developed two challenge protocols for evaluating intestinal functions under oxidative stress and inflammation conditions.

Multi-Omics Reveal the Improvements of Nutrient Digestion, Absorption, and Metabolism and Intestinal Function via GABA Supplementation in Weanling Piglets

The nonprotein amino acid γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) can enhance intestinal function in piglets; however, the mechanisms involved are not yet fully understood. To explore the effects of GABA and its underlying mechanisms, weanling piglets were randomly assigned to three groups, receiving either a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with GABA (80 mg/kg or 120 mg/kg). The results demonstrated that dietary GABA improved growth performance and reduced diarrhea incidence (p < 0.05). Additionally, GABA supplementation decreased the serum and intestinal levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (p < 0.05), and improved intestinal morphology. Multi-omics analyses were employed to explore the alterations caused by GABA supplementation and elucidate the related mechanisms. Microbiota profiling revealed improved beta-diversity and changes in the composition of ileal bacteria and fungi. Amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and digestive processes were primarily enriched in the GABA group according to metabolomics analysis. A transcriptome analysis showed significant enrichment in ion transmembrane transport and nutrition absorption and digestion pathways in the ileum. Furthermore, increased lipase and trypsin activity, along with the elevated expression of tight junction proteins confirmed the beneficial effects of GABA on intestinal nutrient metabolism and barrier function. In conclusion, dietary 80 mg/kg GABA supplementation improved nutrient digestion and absorption and intestinal function in weanling piglets.

Functional analysis of antigen presentation by enteric glial cells during intestinal inflammation.

The Enteric Nervous System is composed of a vastly interconnected network of neurons and glial cells that coordinate to regulate homeostatic gut function including intestinal motility, nutrient sensing, and mucosal barrier immunity. Enteric Glial Cells (EGCs) are a heterogeneous cell population located throughout the gastrointestinal tract and have well described roles in regulating intestinal immune responses. Enteric Glial Cells have been suggested to act as nonconventional antigen presenting cells via the Major Histocompatibility Complex II (MHC II), though this has not been confirmed functionally. Here, we investigate the capability of EGCs to present antigen on MHC I and MHC II using in vitro antigen presentation assays performed with primary murine EGC cultures. We found that EGCs are capable of functional antigen presentation on MHC I, including antigen cross-presentation, but are not capable of functional antigen presentation on MHC II. We also determined EGC cell surface MHC I and MHC II expression levels by flow cytometry during intestinal inflammation during Dextran Sodium Sulfate-induced colitis or acute Toxoplasma gondii infection. We found that EGCs upregulate MHC I during acute T. gondii infection and induce low-level MHC II expression. These findings suggest that EGCs may be important in the regulation of CD8+ T cell responses via MHC I mediated antigen (cross) presentation but may not be relevant for MHC II-mediated antigen presentation.

Effects of Eimeria challenge on growth performance, intestine integrity, and cecal microbial diversity and composition of yellow broilers

The invasion of Eimeria causes damage to the intestinal barrier, nutrient leakage, and microbial imbalance in poultry. We aimed to investigate the effects of Eimeria infection on growth performance, intestinal integrity, and cecal microbial diversity and composition of yellow broilers. A total of 180 male yellow broilers were randomly divided into an unchallenged control and an Eimeria challenge treatment group within 18 floor pens (10 chicks/pen, 9 replicate pens/group). On day 10, 90 chicks received a cocktail of E. maxima, E. acervulina, and E. tenella oocysts (105/chick) to induce coccidial infection, and the other 90 received an aliquot of PBS. The Eimeria challenge resulted in increased bird feed consumption and FCR from day 11 to 21 (all P < 0.01). Higher fecal Eimeria counts, duodenal, jejunal, and cecal lesions were observed in the challenge group on day 12, 15, 15, 18 respectively (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, the infected birds had larger livers and small intestines, deeper villus crypt, and decreased expression of Claudin-1 on day 21 (all P < 0.05). The 16S rRNA sequencing indicated that alpha diversity (Sobs, Shannon, Simpson, Ace, or Chao) of cecal microbials was not affected by Eimeria challenge (all P > 0.05). However, the PCoA and LEfSe analyses indicated that the Eimeria challenge altered microbial distribution by decreasing the abundance of Firmicutes and enriching the abundance of Proteobacteria at the phylum level. At the genus level, Clostridia vadin BB60 and Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group were reduced, while Escherichia-Shigella were enriched in the challenged yellow broilers (all P < 0.05). Correlation analyses demonstrated that the birds with higher Lachonospiraceae NK4A136 group and Clostridia vadin BB60, and lower Escherichia-Shigella in their cecal content gained more BW and reached a lower FCR from day 11 to 21 (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, Eimeria infection compromised feed efficiency of yellow broilers by damaging intestinal barrier and shifting cecal microbiota towards colonizers associated with poor performance. Restoring the dysbiotic microbiome could be a potential strategy for improving feed efficiency in yellow broilers under coccidial challenge.

Comparative Analysis of Intestinal Morphology and Gut Microbiota of Spinibarbus sinensis Under Different Aquaculture Systems

Fish gut health is influenced by various factors, with the environment being a significant one. S. sinensis is a key aquaculture species in China, yet research on the impact of different aquaculture systems on its intestinal health remains limited. This study aims to explore the changes in intestinal morphology and gut microbiota of S. sinensis under two aquaculture systems. The juveniles of S. sinensis were divided into two groups and cultured in traditional ponds (CT) and an in-pond tank culture system (JY), with equal amounts of feed provided daily over a 72-day experimental period. The results showed no significant differences in growth performance metrics, including the specific growth rate, weight gain rate, hepatosomatic index, and viscerosomatic index between the two groups. In terms of intestinal morphology, the JY group villus width was significantly wider than the CT group, and the number of goblet cells in the CT group was significantly higher than that of the JY group (p &lt; 0.05), which suggested that the fish in the JY group may have better intestinal nutrient absorption capacity, while the water quality in the CT group may be worse. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis of the gut microbiota showed that the JY group had a significantly higher Shannon index compared to the CT group (p &lt; 0.05), indicating greater species richness and evenness. Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) revealed a distinct clustering of gut microbiota between the two groups. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Fusobacteriota was significantly higher in the CT group, whereas Bacteroidota and Proteobacteria were significantly higher in the JY group (p &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, KEGG pathway predictions indicated differences in the potential metabolic capabilities of the gut microbiota between the two groups (p &lt; 0.05). Overall, this study is the first to conduct a comparative analysis of the growth performance, intestinal tissue morphology, and gut microbiota of S. sinensis under two different aquaculture systems, which has valuable implications for the further optimization of aquaculture practices.

A two-front nutrient supply environment fuels small intestinal physiology through differential regulation of nutrient absorption and host defense

The small intestine contains a two-front nutrient supply environment created by luminal dietary and microbial metabolites (enteral side) and systemic metabolites from the host (serosal side). Yet, it is unknown how each side contributes differentially to the small intestinal physiology. Here, we generated a comprehensive, high-resolution map of the small intestinal two-front nutrient supply environment. Using invivo tracing of macronutrients and spatial metabolomics, we visualized the spatiotemporal dynamics and cell-type tropism in nutrient absorption and the region-specific metabolic heterogeneity within the villi. Specifically, glutamine from the enteral side fuels goblet cells to support mucus production, and the serosal side loosens the epithelial barrier by calibrating fungal metabolites. Disorganized feeding patterns, akin to the human lifestyle of skipping breakfast, increase the risk of metabolic diseases by inducing epithelial memory of lipid absorption. This study improves our understanding of how the small intestine is spatiotemporally regulated by its unique nutritional environment.

487 Rumen degradation, N-To-Energy Synchronization, and Intestinal digestion Study in dairy cows: Effect of oat varieties and types (feed type vs. milling type)

Abstract This study aimed to determine the impact of four oat varieties and types (feed type vs. milling type) on the rumen degradation kinetics of nutrients, intestinal digestion of nutrients, and N to energy synchronization. Twelve samples [4 varieties (Arborg, Haymaker, Nasser, Summit) × 3 harvested years (2018, 2019, 2020)] were used for in situ rumen incubation analysis, three-step in vitro analysis, and available N to energy synchronization evaluations. The experiment design was RCBD design (oat varieties as a fixed effect and harvested year as a random block effect). Statistical analysis was performed by MIXED procedure model of SAS 9.4, and significance was declared at P &amp;lt; 0.05 and tendency at 0.05 ≤ P &amp;lt; 0.10. Results showed that Haymaker and Arborg oat had higher rate of degradation of degradable fractions (Kd) of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and starch than that of Nasser oat (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Nasser oat had greatest rumen bypass dry matter (BDM, g/kg DM), and rumen bypass feed starch (BST, g/kg DM) in these four varieties (P &amp;lt; 0.05) while the effective degradability of dry matter (EDDM, g/kg DM), effective degradability of feed crude protein (EDCP, g/kg DM), and effective degradability of feed starch (EDST, g/kg DM) of Nasser oat were least among varieties (P &amp;lt; 0.05). There were significant differences in BDM, EDDM, %BST, and EDST between milling oat and feed oat. For the intestinal nutrient digestibility, Summit oat had greatest intestinal digestibility of rumen bypass dry matter (%dBDM) among four varieties (P &amp;lt; 0.05), and the value of intestinal digestible rumen bypass dry matter (IDBDM, g/kg DM) of Summit was greatest in these varieties, which has greater IDBDM (g/kg DM) content than that of Nasser oat (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Nasser oat also had the least total digestible dry matter (TDDM, g/kg DM) in these varieties (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Summit oat had similar intestinal digestibility of rumen bypass protein (%dBCP) with Haymaker and Nasser oat but had greater %dBCP content than that of Arborg oat (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Nasser oat had greater intestinal digestible rumen bypass protein (%IDBCP, % of CP) in these four varieties (P &amp;lt; 0.05), while its value of total digestible protein (TDCP, g/kg DM) was the smallest and the TDCP content of Nasser oat was less than Haymaker oat (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Summit and Arborg oat had greater total digestible feed starch (TDST) than that of Nasser oat (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Significant differences were found on %dBDM, IDBDM, TDDM, and TDST between the feed type and milling type oat (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Haymaker oat had similar ratio of N to organic matter (OM) of the oat (N/OM) with Nasser oat but had greater N/OM content than that of Arborg and Summit oat (P &amp;lt; 0.05).

Dietary supplementation of microencapsulated botanicals and organic acids enhances the expression and function of intestine epithelial digestive enzymes and nutrient transporters in broiler chickens

Organic acids and botanicals have shown protective effects on gut barrier and against inflammation in broilers. However, their effects on intestinal digestive enzymes and nutrients transporters expression and functions have not been fully studied. The objective of this study was to understand how a microencapsulated blend of botanicals and organic acids affected intestinal enzyme activities and nutrient transporters expression and functions in broilers. A total of 288 birds were assigned to a commercial control diet or diet supplemented with 500 g/MT (metric ton) of the microencapsulated additive. Growth performance was recorded weekly. At d 21 and d 42, jejunum and ileum were isolated for enzyme (maltase, sucrase, and aminopeptidase) and transporter (SGLT1, GLUT2, GLUT1, EAAT3, B0AT1, and PepT1) analyses. Jejunum specific nutrients (glucose, alanine, and glutamate) transport activities were evaluated by Ussing chamber. Protein expression of nutrient transporters in small intestine were measured in mucosa and brush-border membrane (BBM) samples by western blot. Intestinal gene expression of the transporters was determined by RT-PCR. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t-test comparing the supplemented diet to the control. The feed efficiency was significantly improved through the study period in the supplemented group (P ≤ 0.05). Significant changes of intestinal histology were shown in both jejunum (P ≤ 0.10) and ileum (P ≤ 0.05) after 21 d of treatment. At d21, jejunal maltase activity was upregulated (P ≤ 0.10). The Ussing chamber transport of glucose and alanine was increased, which was in line with increased gene expression (GLUT2, GLUT1, EAAT3, and B0AT1) (P ≤ 0.10 and P ≤ 0.05, respectively) and BBMV protein levels (B0AT1, P < 0.10). At d21, ileal sucrase and maltase activities were upregulated (P ≤ 0.05). Increased expressions of GLUT1, EAAT3, and B0AT1 were observed in both mRNA and protein levels (P ≤ 0.05). Similar pattern of changes was also shown at d42 of age. Our results suggest that feeding microencapsulated additives improves intestinal nutrient digestion and transporter expression and function in broilers, thereby enhancing feed efficiency.

Alterations in the Intestinal Microbiome and Metabolic Profile of British Shorthair Kittens Fed with Milk Replacer.

With the rising popularity of pet cats as companion animals, the survival of newborn kittens is often threatened by factors such as inadequate nursing, maternal behavior and blood incompatibility. These challenges require the use of milk replacers for nurturing. To investigate the effects that feeding kittens with an experimental milk replacer (EMR) have on growth and development, intestinal microbiota, immune response and nutrient metabolism, 12 British shorthair kittens were randomly divided into two groups after nursing for the first week of life. Kittens were fed queen's milk or EMR, whereby kittens fed queen's milk served as the control (CON) group. The findings revealed that the CON group exhibited superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p < 0.01) on day 7. However, the EMR group had better growth performance during the later stage of the experiment (p < 0.05); the immunocompetence and antioxidant capacity of the EMR group were not significantly different from those of the CON group in the middle and late stages of the experiment, and the mean values of all the indexes were slightly better than those of the control group. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene in microbiota demonstrated that EMR increased the colonization of bacterial genera, including Lachnospiraceae, Enterococcus, Rothia and Ligilactobacillus. Compared to the CON group, acetate acid (p < 0.05), propionate acid (p < 0.01) and total SCFAs (p < 0.01) in the EMR group were significantly increased. Moreover, the intake of the EMR resulted in the production of distinct metabolites implicated in the metabolism of lipids and amino acids, among other nutrients, thus invigorating the associated metabolic pathways. These results elucidate the impact of administering a milk replacer on gastrointestinal health and nutrient assimilation in kittens. The study provides insights into the use of milk powder alternatives and sets the stage for future research on the formulation and effectiveness of kitten milk replacers.

Hydrogen breath test as a diagnostic tool

Introduction and Purpose: Hydrogen breath tests serve the crucial purpose of evaluating the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, particularly when carbohydrates are not properly absorbed, leading to bacterial overgrowth. These tests are non-invasive, cost-effective, and widely accessible diagnostic tools used to assess various gastrointestinal disorders. The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness and methodology of Hydrogen breath testing (HBT). State of knowledge: The disposal of hydrogen gas is essential for maintaining efficient microbial fermentation processes in the gut. Hydrogenotrophic microbes, including acetogens, methanogenic archaea, and sulfate-reducing bacteria, are responsible for this process. Hydrogen breath tests, conducted with substrates like glucose and lactulose, aid in diagnosing conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), lactose and fructose intolerance, and other carbohydrate absorption disorders. These tests generate a large volume of data, which can be analyzed using data mining techniques to uncover new hypotheses. Conclusions: Hydrogen breath tests, using various substrates, are effective in diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders such as SIBO and carbohydrate malabsorption. They offer valuable insights into microbial processes in the gut and can inform individualized treatment strategies. However, careful consideration of contraindications and proper test administration protocols is essential for accurate diagnosis and interpretation of results.

Dihydromyricetin improves growth performance, immunity, and intestinal functions in weaned pigs challenged by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli.

Enteric infection is a major cause of enteric disorder in neonatal pigs during the weaning transition. Dihydromyricetin (DMY) is a natural flavanonol compound extracted from Ampelopsis grossedentata with numerous biological activities such as antioxidative and immunomodulatory functions. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary dihydromyricetin supplementation on growth performance, immunity, and intestinal functions in weaned pigs challenged by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). In total, 24 weaned DLY (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) pigs were allotted to 3 treatments. Pigs fed with basal diet or basal diet containing 300 mg/kg DMY were orally infused with sterilized culture or ETEC (2.5 × 1011 colony-forming units). Dietary DMY supplementation significantly elevated the final weight and average daily gain (ADG) but reduced diarrhea incidence in the weaned pigs of the EDMY group compared to the pigs of the ECON group (p < 0.05). Compared to the ECON group, DMY also improved the digestibility of dry matter (DM), ether extract (EE), gross energy (GE), and ash of the EDMY group (p < 0.05). Moreover, DMY not only significantly decreased the ratio of albumin/globulin but also elevated serum concentrations of immunoglobulins (e.g., IgA and IgG) in the weaned pigs of the EDMY group compared to the pigs of the ECON group (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the villus height, the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V:C), and the activities of mucosal alkaline phosphatase, sucrase, and maltase in the duodenum and jejunum of the EDMY group were higher than those in the ECON group (p < 0.05). Importantly, DMY significantly elevated the expression levels of jejunal zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), claudin-1, cationic amino acid transporter-1 (CAT-1), and fatty acid transport protein-1 (FATP-1) in the weaned pigs of the EDMY group compared to the pigs of the ECON group (p < 0.05). Additionally, compared to the ECON group, DMY increased the concentrations of microbial SCFA metabolites (e.g., acetic acid and propanoic acid), but reduced the abundance of Escherichia coli in the cecum of the EDMY group (p < 0.05). Dietary DMY supplementation can attenuate the ETEC-induced growth retardation and intestinal injury, which was attributed to the amelioration of intestinal nutrient digestion and transport functions as well as the improved microbiota.

Dietary Pediastrum boryanum microalgal extract improves growth, enhances immunity, and regulates immune-related genes in Nile tilapia

BackgroundIdentifying alternative sustainable feed sources with high nutritional values is crucial for the future of environmentally and socially responsible aquaculture. In this regard, microalgae have been proven to have positive effects on fish health, which overwhelmed our interest in this study.MethodsPediastrum boryanum (P. boryanum) was incorporated into Nile tilapia feed at concentrations of 0, 0.75, and 1.5 mg/kg, as control, PbExt0.75, and PbExt1.5 groups to assess its effects on growth and biochemical indices, oxidant/antioxidant activities, immune and stress-related gene expression, and intestinal morphology.ResultsAfter 8 weeks, fish fed P. boryanum supplemented feed exhibited significant increases in final weight, length, condition factor, body weight gain, and specific growth rate, while the spleen-somatic index (SSI) and hepatosomatic index (HSI) showed no significant differences compared to the control group. Dietary P. boryanum supplementation also enhanced IgM levels and lysozyme activity, along with no marked effect on markers of liver function enzymes (alanine aminotransferase/ALT and aspartate aminotransferase/AST) or protein status (total protein and albumin). Furthermore, P. boryanum addition increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH) enzymes, highlighting its antioxidant potential, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations showed no significant differences among the groups. Gene expression analysis revealed that tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expression notably increased in groups fed P. boryanum containing feed, while no significant difference was observed in hepatic Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70) mRNA expression. Histopathological examination revealed no adverse effects of P. boryanum supplementation on the liver, spleen, or intestinal tissues. Villous height and villous surface area were notably increased in the high P. boryanum supplementation group, suggesting improved intestinal integrity and nutrient absorption.ConclusionDietary P. boryanum supplementation can potentially improve growth performance, immune response, antioxidant status, and intestinal health of Nile tilapia, making it a promising candidate for sustainable aquaculture.

Effects of Hermetia illucens larvae meal and astaxanthin on intestinal histology and expression of tight junction proteins in weaned piglets.

The weaning phase in piglets causes significant physiological stress, disrupts intestinal integrity and reduces productivity, necessitating strategies to improve intestinal health and nutrient absorption. While current research highlights the role of diet in mitigating these adverse effects, identifying effective dietary supplements remains a challenge. This study evaluated the effects of Hermetia illucens (HI) larvae meal and astaxanthin (AST) on the intestinal histology of weaned piglets. In a controlled experiment, 48 weaned piglets were divided into six groups and received varying levels of HI larval meal (2.5% and 5%) and AST in their diets. The methodology involved comprehensive histological examinations of the small intestine, assessing absorption area, villi elongation, crypt depth, goblet cells, enterocytes and expression of ileal tight junction (TJ) proteins. The study found that HI larval meal significantly improved nutrient absorption in the jejunum and ileum (p < 0.001), thereby enhancing feed conversion. AST supplementation increased the number of enterocytes (p < 0.001). Both HI larval meal and AST positively affected intestinal morphology and function, increasing muscularis muscle mass and villi elongation (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). The 2.5% HI meal improved the villi length to crypt depth ratio and slightly increased the goblet cell count (both p < 0.05). Ki-67 antibody analysis showed increased cell proliferation in the duodenal and jejunal crypts, particularly with the 2.5% HI meal (p < 0.001). Insect meal did not affect TJ protein expression, indicating that it had no effect on intestinal permeability. These findings suggest that HI larval meal and AST can enhance the intestinal wellness and productivity of weaned piglets.

GSDME promotes MASLD by regulating pyroptosis, Drp1 citrullination-dependent mitochondrial dynamic, and energy balance in intestine and liver.

Dysregulated metabolism, cell death, and inflammation contribute to the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Pyroptosis, a recently identified form of programmed cell death, is closely linked to inflammation. However, the precise role of pyroptosis, particularly gasdermin-E (GSDME), in MASH development remains unknown. In this study, we observed GSDME cleavage and GSDME-associated interleukin-1β (IL-1β)/IL-18 induction in liver tissues of MASH patients and MASH mouse models induced by a choline-deficient high-fat diet (CDHFD) or a high-fat/high-cholesterol diet (HFHC). Compared with wild-type mice, global GSDME knockout mice exhibited reduced liver steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, lipotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction in CDHFD- or HFHC-induced MASH models. Moreover, GSDME knockout resulted in increased energy expenditure, inhibited intestinal nutrient absorption, and reduced body weight. In the mice with GSDME deficiency, reintroduction of GSDME in myeloid cells-rather than hepatocytes-mimicked the MASH pathologies and metabolic dysfunctions, as well as the changes in the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps and hepatic macrophage/monocyte subclusters. These subclusters included shifts in Tim4+ or CD163+ resident Kupffer cells, Ly6Chi pro-inflammatory monocytes, and Ly6CloCCR2loCX3CR1hi patrolling monocytes. Integrated analyses of RNA sequencing and quantitative proteomics revealed a significant GSDME-dependent reduction in citrullination at the arginine-114 (R114) site of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) during MASH. Mutation of Drp1 at R114 reduced its stability, impaired its ability to redistribute to mitochondria and regulate mitophagy, and ultimately promoted its degradation under MASH stress. GSDME deficiency reversed the de-citrullination of Drp1R114, preserved Drp1 stability, and enhanced mitochondrial function. Our study highlights the role of GSDME in promoting MASH through regulating pyroptosis, Drp1 citrullination-dependent mitochondrial function, and energy balance in the intestine and liver, and suggests that GSDME may be a potential therapeutic target for managing MASH.

Diet-Induced Obesity Differentially Regulates Intestinal Nutrient Sensing by Enteric Neurons: Evidence of Direct Neuronal Activation by Luminal Nutrients

Diet-Induced Obesity Differentially Regulates Intestinal Nutrient Sensing by Enteric Neurons: Evidence of Direct Neuronal Activation by Luminal Nutrients

Modulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in the ovine liver and duodenum during early pregnancy

The liver and intestine play a critical role in nutrient absorption, storage, and metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate expression pattern of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway that included PI3K, AKT1, mTOR, FoxO1, SREBP-1, PPARα, PTEN and FXR in the maternal liver and duodenum. Ovine livers and duodenums were sampled at day 16 of the estrous cycle, and at days 13, 16 and 25 of gestation, and RT-qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis were used to detect mRNA and protein expression. The results showed that expression of PI3K, AKT1, p-mTOR, FoxO1, SREBP-1 and PTEN upregulated in the maternal liver, and PPARα upregulated in the duodenum. However, expression of FoxO1, SREBP-1 and PTEN in the duodenum downregulated during early pregnancy. In addition, expression levels of SREBP-1, PTEN and PPARα in the maternal liver, and PI3K in the duodenum peaked at day 13 of pregnancy. In addition, expression levels of PI3K, p-mTOR and FoxO1 in the liver, and AKT1 and p-mTOR in the duodenum peaked at day 16 of pregnancy. Nevertheless, expression levels of FXR both in the maternal liver duodenum downregulated at days 13 and 16 of pregnancy. In conclusion, early pregnancy regulated expression pattern of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in the ovine liver and duodenum in a pregnancy stage-specific and tissue-specific manner, which may be necessary for the adaptations in maternal hepatic nutrient metabolism and intestinal nutrient absorption early pregnancy.

NETWORK PERSPECTIVE: BENEFITS OF INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC COLLABORATION

In 2010 Freeman suggested that "the globalization of scientific and engineering knowledge is the most potent aspect of modern globalization". International research collaboration is an activity that is widely pushed globally, at the level of research institutes and universities. Academic world is increasingly interconnected, fostering such international partnerships that represents the globalization of science from the scientific collaboration perspective. These collaborations extend beyond sharing resources. Main goal of those activities is exchanging ideas, cultures, and visions to address complex global challenges. It is evident that from partnering with institutions and researchers worldwide, National Agricultural and Food Centre (NPPC) can be exposed to diverse pools of knowledge and expertise that significantly enhance the academic quality and reputation of our NPPC. This global exchange of ideas leads to more innovative, comprehensive, and impactful research outcomes. Additionally, as the institute's reputation improves, the research centre will attract more funding, students and talented researchers, achieve globalization, creating a cycle of excellence and improvement. In conclusion, the importance and benefits of international co-research agreements are multiple and profound. Collaboration's activities are pivotal in enhancing academic quality, broadening research horizons, preparing young researcher for global challenges, addressing international issues and policy makers, and fostering cultural understanding and global networks. In the second Editorial article of 2024, I am going to introduce the contents of the articles collected and published in the second issue of 2024 year. Atteh reviewed the effects of fiber on nutrition and reproduction in pigs. Author concluded that the reduction of dietary fiber's hemicellulose in a sow's lactation diet can improve the low-birth-weight piglets' health, post-weaning performance and milk composition. While exogenous enzymes and the extrusion of fibrous feedstuffs enhanced nutrient digestibility and utilisation, other processing methods, including fermentation and extrusion, decreased the dietary fiber components and had a beneficial impact on the performance of the pigs. Agro-industrial residues have enormous potential to improve reproductive efficiency and serving as an economically viable dietary fiber feeding strategy in the pig industry. Awodoyin et al. investigated the dietary supplementation of coffee arabica seed powder on performance and meat quality of broiler chicken. Authors ended up that low pathogenic gut microorganisms and total volatile nitrogen base coupled with high sensory acceptability of meat confirm the antioxidant potential of black coffee in broiler chicken diet. Ngige et al. performed a study aimed at screening the internal and external bacteria found in farmed Nile tilapia and African Catfish. According to microbiological investigation, the presence of the microorganisms, some of which are pathogens (Salmonella enteritidis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella oxytoca) to humans, is an indication that undercooked fish may pose health risks to susceptible human and an impediment to the rapid intensification of aquaculture because of mortality of fingerings. Busanello reviewed the most common traffic systems in barns for lactating dairy cows milked in automatic milking systems. The study describes the advantages and disadvantages of free, milk-first and feed-first traffic and the differences between forced and guided cow traffic designs. Some research data are also shown to emphasize the theoretical concepts included in this document. Author concluded that guided traffic designs emerge as the most efficient, milking more cows throughout the day while reducing the need to fetch cows and overall labour. When operating at full cow capacity, guided cow traffic designs are recommended. Sudik conducted a study with the aim to determine the nutritional composition of roselle seed cake (Hibiscus sabdarica L.) and its effect on broiler chickens. Author concluded that roselle seed cake is rich in proteins and energy and it can be included up to 50 % in the diet of broilers without negative effects on growth rate and carcass performance. Rajsky et al. described the flexible duodenal monocannula of the National Agricultural and Food Centre design for the determination of intestinal nutrient digestibility in cattle. The innovativeness of the technical design of the NPPC cannula lies in the fact that the cannula is made of one piece of a straight tube with an inner diameter of 22 mm. As a result, the life of cannulated animals can be extended without age limitation. Editorial Team looks forward to evaluating your submitted contributions and providing all necessary support to Authors in order to best serve animal science and the scientific community, with commitment to research integrity and the highest publishing ethics. Enjoy reading!

Rice-fish symbiosis improves the muscle nutrition and intestinal flora diversity of tilapia

Rice-fish symbiosis is an ecological farming model that can improve fish’s muscle nutrient profile and intestinal flora. We investigated the effect of rice-fish symbiosis on tilapia’s intestinal flora and muscle nutrients. We used 16S rDNA technology to analyze the intestinal flora of tilapia in pond culture and rice-fish symbiosis. Furthermore, spearman correlation analysis was performed on tilapia intestinal flora and muscle nutrients. The results showed that the contents of Valine, Phenylalanine, and Docosahexaenoic acid were significantly higher in the rice-fish symbiosis than those in the pond culture (p&lt;0.05). Intestinal flora analysis showed that the diversity in rice-fish symbiosis was significantly higher than in pond culture (p&lt;0.05). Meanwhile, the abundance of Brevundimonas, Pseudomonas, and Ralstonia in rice-fish symbiosis was significantly higher than those in pond culture (p&lt;0.05), but Pirellulaceae unclassified and Cyanobium_PCC-6307 were opposite. The number of 8 predictive functional tilapia genes in the rice-fish symbiosis was higher than in the pond culture. Correlation analysis showed that the abundance of Ralstonia was positively correlated with the contents of Valine, Phenylalanine, and Docosahexaenoic acid, respectively. Our study shows that the rice-fish symbiosis could improve muscle nutrient profile and intestinal flora diversity in tilapia. This study will help to improve the rice-fish symbiosis model and provide a scientific basis for ecological aquaculture and healthy fish production.

Utilization of Kombucha Tea to Improve Children's Health and Reduce Stunting Rates in Patempuran Village, Jember Regency

In order to overcome the problem of stunting in children, a team of Jember University lecturers collaborated with the Patempuran Village community and posyandu cadres to carry out community service activities. The main focus of this activity is the mass use and dissemination of Kombucha Tea, chosen because of its important nutritional content and potential to improve intestinal health and nutrient absorption in children. This activity includes outreach to increase understanding of the benefits of Kombucha Tea, training for posyandu cadres and village mothers on how to produce Kombucha Tea, as well as the distribution process to families with children under five. Apart from that, counseling regarding healthy eating patterns and the importance of nutrition was also provided in this activity. The impact evaluation was carried out after the activity was carried out to measure the extent to which Kombucha Tea made a positive contribution in reducing stunting rates in Patempuran Village. Close collaboration between the lecturer team, the community and the local government forms a sustainable community service model, which is expected to have a positive impact in improving the welfare of children in Patempuran Village.

Pediococcus pentosaceus ZZ61 enhances growth performance and pathogenic resistance of silkworm Bombyx mori by regulating gut microbiota and metabolites

Probiotics have attracted considerable attention in animal husbandry due to their positive effect on animal growth and health. This study aimed to screen candidate probiotic strain promoting the growth and health of silkworm and reveal the potential mechanisms. A novel probiotic Pediococcus pentosaceus strain (ZZ61) substantially promoted body weight gain, feed efficiency, and silk yield. These effects were likely mediated by changes in the intestinal digestive enzyme activity and nutrient provisioning (e.g., B vitamins) of the host, improving nutrient digestion and assimilation. Additionally, P. pentosaceus produced antimicrobial compounds and increased the antioxidant capacity to protect the host against pathogenic infection. Furthermore, P. pentosaceus affected the gut microbiome and altered the levels of gut metabolites (e.g., glycine and glycerophospholipids), which in turn promotes host nutrition and health. This study contributes to an improved understanding of the interactions between probiotic and host and promotes probiotic utilization in sericulture.