Villus Length Research Articles

Bacillus methylotrophicus influences on the virulence of Aeromonas hydrophila and probiotic applications in Ctenopharyngodon idella

Probiotics are alternatives to antibiotics that resist infection and benefit the host in several aspects. Here, we isolated and identified a novel strain of Bacillus methylotrophicus (XA-8) with a broad spectrum of activity against Aeromonas hydrophila AhX040 and other aquatic bacterial pathogens. The strain was non-pathogenic as it revealed no cytotoxic effects in hepatic L8824 cells or pathophysiological signs in the tissue of Ctenopharyngodon idella (grass carp). Using a co-culture approach, XA-8 (1×109 CFU mL−1) when co-cultivated with AhX040 (1×108 CFU mL−1) revealed a reduction in the cell density, cytotoxicity, and infection rate of AhX040. More interestingly, genes such as aer, act, hylA, lafA, hcp, and luxS, associated with the virulence of AhX040, were significantly down-regulated during co-cultivation (P<0.05). Furthermore, XA-8 as a feed supplement to grass carp up-regulated the immune-related genes in the liver, spleen, kidney, and intestine. The villi length and expression level of growth-related genes in the intestine were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the XA-8 supplemented grass carp. In addition to resisting infection (52.63 %), probiotic XA-8 modulated the gut microbiota of grass carp by increasing Fusobacteriota and Bacteroidota at the phylum level, while decreasing Aeromonas at the genus level. The whole genome sequence analysis showed the strain possesses multiple gene clusters for antimicrobial substances and metabolism. Our results demonstrate that B.methylotrophicus XA-8 is a novel probiotic with potential applications for aquaculture.

The vital role of melatonin in the intestinal mucosal barrier integrity in chick

BackgroundThe intestinal tract, as the main place for nutrient digestion and absorption, is closely related to the health of livestock and poultry. Melatonin secreted by the pineal gland acts as an endocrine transport signaling molecule to regulate intestinal function. However, the effect on intestinal function after pineal removal is unclear. MethodsWe raised 24 chicks under 400-700 nm white light with or without pinealectomy for 21 days. We used electron microscopy, HE staining, PAS staining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining and western blot to detect intestinal physical and to explore the effect of melatonin secreted by the pineal gland on the intestinal mucosa barrier function. ResultsThe results showed that after pineal gland removal, the structure of the intestinal villi is severely damaged. Moreover, there was an obviously down-regulation in the villi length, the number of goblet cells and and its secretion of MUC2 protein, the expression level of tight junction proteins (Occludin and ZO-1) and lysozyme secreted by paneth cells, number of PCNA positive cells and macrophage, and an up-regualtion in crypt depth and apoptosis level after pinealectomy, suggesting pinealectomy-mediated melatonin level decrease damaged the intestinal physical, chemical and immune barriers. ConclusionOur findings provide new theoretical support for the future use of melatonin in intestinal development and new ideas about the relationship between endocrine hormone and intestinal physiology.

Mechanism of action of exercise regulating intestinal microflora to improve spontaneous hypertension in rats.

Hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular disease. Exercise is widely recognized as an effective treatment for hypertension, and it may also influence the composition of the intestinal microflora. However, it remains unclear whether exercise can specifically regulate the intestinal microflora in the context of hypertension treatment. In this study, tail blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) was measured using a blood pressure meter after exercise intervention and fecal bacteria transplantation following exercise. Blood lipid levels were assessed using an automatic biochemical analyzer, and 16S rRNA sequencing was employed to analyze the intestinal microflora. Histological examinations of ileal tissue were conducted using HE and Masson staining. Intestinal permeability, inflammatory status, and sympathetic activity were evaluated by measuring the levels of diamine oxidase, D-lactic acid, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, lipopolysaccharide, norepinephrine, angiotensin II, cyclic adenosine monophosphate, and cyclic guanosine monophosphate. Exercise was found to reduce blood pressure and blood lipid levels in SHR. It also improved the composition of the intestinal microflora, as evidenced by a reduced Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, an increase in bacteria that produce acetic and butyric acid, and higher Chao 1 and Shannon diversity indices. Furthermore, exercise reduced the thickness of the fibrotic and muscular layers in the ileum, increased the goblet cell/villus ratio and villus length, and decreased intestinal permeability, inflammatory markers, and sympathetic nerve activity. The intestinal microbial flora regulated by exercise demonstrated similar effects on hypertension. In conclusion, exercise appears to regulate the intestinal microflora, and this exercise-induced change in flora may contribute to improvements in hypertension in rats.

The effect of onion and garlic powders on growth performance, viability, intestine histomorphology, and some blood parameters in Chukar Partridge chicks

In the present study, a total of 270 chicks were divided into 6 main groups and 3 subgroups within 15 chicks in each subgroup. Except for the control group, 0,5% garlic, 0,5% onion, 1% onion, 1% garlic, and a mixture of 1% onion + 1% garlic powder were added to the diet of the study groups. According to the results of the study, there were no significant differences between the control and experimental groups in the body weight gain and feed consumption (P&gt;0,05). In biochemical analyses, there were no significant differences between the groups in low density lipoprotein and cholesterol levels but significant differences were found in high density lipoprotein and malondialdehyde levels, especially in 1% onion powder (P&lt;0,05). According to histological analysis, significant differences were found in villus length, crypt depth, and goblet cell count and the highest villus length was recorded in the 1% onion powder group (P&lt;0,05). A significant statistical difference was found between all experimental groups and the control group in the viability and the highest rate was recorded in the 1% onion powder group (P&lt;0,01). As a result, onion garlic powders increased the viability of chukar partridge chicks, which are quite difficult to breed. When all the data were examined, it was determined that the most beneficial supplementation was 1% onion powder.

Preventive effects of matrine on LPS-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells and intestinal damage in mice through the TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK pathway

BackgroundMatrine is a tetracyclic quinolizidine alkaloid with diverse bioactive properties, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. However, the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms remain unclear. PurposeThis study aimed to explore how matrine reduces Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells and to assess its protective effects against LPS-induced intestinal damage. MethodsThe effect of matrine on cell viability was assessed using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Additionally, its impact on inflammatory cytokines and macrophage polarization was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), flow cytometry, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analyses. The effects on intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), nitric oxide (NO) production, and oxidative stress were evaluated using 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining and JC-1 and Griess assays. Immunofluorescence staining was used to observe the translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit. Western blotting (WB) and qRT-PCR were employed to analyze the expression levels of proteins related to the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. An LPS-induced mouse model was established to study the intestinal inflammation and barrier injury. Mouse feces characteristics, colon length, and disease activity index (DAI) were recorded. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and alcian blue/periodic acid schiff (AB/PAS) staining were used to observe morphological changes and barrier damage in the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon and to measure villus length, crypt depth, goblet cell count, and positive areas in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the colon was determined using gas chromatography (GC). ResultsMatrine inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory cytokine levels, suppressed macrophage M1 polarization, and promoted M2 macrophage polarization. Matrine reduced LPS-induced increases in ROS and NO levels and regulates oxidative stress. Additionally, matrine inhibited the nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit and exerted anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK pathway. In vivo experiments indicated that matrine significantly alleviated LPS-induced diarrhea, increased DAI, and shortened the colon. Matrine reduced the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and the pro-inflammatory mediator NO in mouse intestinal tissues while promoting the content of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Furthermore, it improved intestinal tissue structure and alleviated LPS-induced intestinal barrier damage. Finally, matrine increased the SCFA levels in the intestine. ConclusionMatrine exerted its anti-inflammatory effects and protects against intestinal injury through the TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway.

Effect of barley processing and enzyme supplementation on broiler performance, gut morphometry, and the occurrence of ascites syndrome in broiler chickens

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the nutritive value of processed barley grains and their influence upon growth performance, gut function, and the occurrence of ascites syndrome in broiler chickens. Day-old broilers (n=504) were randomly assigned to six treatments (3 levels of grain processing × 2 levels of enzyme supplementation). Results showed that chicks fed with germinated barley significantly gained more weight compared to unprocessed barley in all feeding stages (P = 0.0001). Chicks received roasted barley showed a slowdown in their growth so that their weight gain was significantly lower than the control and germinated barley groups in the finishing period and the entire experiment (P = 0.0001). Enzyme supplementation of barley-based diets improved weight gain so that a significant improvement was observed in the growing (P = 0.0002) and throughout the trial (P = 0.0098) over the unsupplemented diets. Chickens fed with germinated barley had a higher length of jejunal villi whereas they had a lower crypt depth compared to untreated or roasted barley groups. As a result, the ratio of villus length to crypt depth as well as villus absorptive surface were significantly higher in birds received germinated barley than those fed with unprocessed or roasted barley. Barley processing resulted in a lower viscosity of digesta in the jejunum so that both processing methods showed a significantly lower viscosity compared to unprocessed barley. Birds received unprocessed barley showed a significantly lower concentration of total cholesterol (P = 0.0370) and LDL-cholesterol (P < 0.01) than those received processed barley. Plasma uric acid (P = 0.0350) and total protein (P = 0.0050) concentrations were significantly greater in birds fed with germinated barley as opposed to other experimental treatments. The mortality from ascites was lower in broilers fed with germinated barley compared to untreated barley, particularly in the absence of NSP-degrading enzyme supplement. In conclusion, germinated barley could significantly improve the performance, gut morphometry, and ascites indices of broiler chickens when compared to untreated barley.

Interaction between energy level and starch: fat ratio on intestinal energy metabolism of layer pullets

During the growing period, the gastrointestinal tract of layer pullets is not yet well developed and may be susceptible to dietary energy level. The energy level and composition might impact the intestinal energy metabolism of layer pullets. To test this hypothesis, a total of 480 “Jing Tint 6” layer pullets were used in an 8-week study and allocated to 4 groups, each consisting of 8 replicates, with 15 birds per replicate. Pullets were treated with low or high starch: fat ratios (LS, 10:1; HS, 20:1) in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with regular energy (RE, 11.85 and 11.68 MJ/kg for birds from 6 to 10 weeks of age and 11 to 14 weeks of age, respectively) or low energy (LE, 0.55 MJ/kg lower than RE) levels. A significant interaction (P < 0.05) showed that HS increased glandular stomach weight and the jejunal villus length to crypt depth ratio (VCR) in LE diets, but decreased these parameters in RE diets. Dietary energy reduction impaired energy metabolism in the ileum (P < 0.05) mainly via decreasing the gene expression of enzymes involved in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle (α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex [α-KGDH]; isocitrate dehydrogenase (NAD (+)) [IDH] catalytic; citrate synthase [CS]) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, reducing contents of phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and adenylate energy charges (AEC) and down-regulating the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway. HS stimulated AMPKα phosphorylation, increased protein abundance of peroxisome proliferator activated-receptor gamma coactivator 1α (PGC1α) and improved contents of amino acids (aspartate, glutamate, glutamine, alanine and threonine) and malate in the ileum regardless of energy levels (P < 0.05). By an interaction (P < 0.05), the transition from LS to HS diets up-regulated ileal gene expression of AMPKα1 and decreased content of adenosine monophosphate (AMP), accompanied by higher AEC but only in birds fed with LE diets. Collectively, these results suggest that low energy feeding may not be enough for maintaining intestinal energy homeostasis in layer pullets and emphasizes the importance of a relatively high starch: fat ratio in restoring energy metabolism in the ileum.

Dietary Chitosan Nanoparticles Enhance Growth, Antioxidant Defenses, Immunity, and Aeromonas veronii biovar sobria Resistance in Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus

While chitosan is widely used in aquaculture feed, chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) offer potential advantages due to their enhanced absorption. This study investigated the safe use of CNP levels in Nile tilapia feed, evaluating its impact on growth, immunity, and disease resistance. Five experimental diets were formulated and supplemented with zero chitosan (served as a control group), 1g/kg of chitosan (CS), and 1, 3, and 5 g/kg of CNPs. Each diet was randomly assigned to three replicate groups of 45 fish per group (15 fish/tank) with an average weight of (42.10 ± 0.05g, mean ± S.E.) twice daily (09:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) to apparent satiation for two months. At the end of the feeding trial, fish fed 5 g/ kg of CNPs had the highest growth performance. However, no significant variations (p &gt; 0.05) in somatic index were seen between the experimental groups. All chitosan and CNP-enriched groups exhibited improved intestinal morphology compared to the control group, characterized by increased villus length and width, reduced necrosis of intestinal tips, and better overall tissue integrity, with the CNP 3g and 5g groups demonstrating the most favorable intestinal structure. The CNP-treated groups (3, 5 g/kg) had significantly higher blood indices and serum globulin. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were lower in the CNP-treated groups compared to the chitosan macromolecule group. There was a substantial rise in glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), phagocytic index, and respiratory burst activity in the 5 g/kg CNP-treated group. The dietary addition of 5 g/kg of CNPs raised mRNA expression for TLR-2, MUC-2, and IGF-1, but there was no significant difference in HSP70 expression across treatments. After the experimental challenge with Aeromonas veronii biovar sobria, the groups that received 3 and 5 g/kg of CNPs exhibited the lowest mortality rates. Overall, the results suggest that including 5g/kg of CNPs in fish food is safe and effective for enhancing their health and growth, making it a promising addition to aquaculture feed.

Nutritional evaluation of an aqueous-processed canola protein concentrate in diets of Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar at different life stages

A novel aqueous processing method was applied on canola defatted meal to produce a protein concentrate (>76 % crude protein, dry matter basis). This aqueous-processed canola protein concentrate (ACPC) was evaluated in three experiments with Atlantic salmon. The objectives were to (1) estimate the nutrient digestibility of ACPC in juvenile fish, (2) appraise its nutrient digestibility in post-smolt salmon, and (3) evaluate the long-term effect of ACPC on growth, survival, nutrient utilization, body composition, fillet pigmentation and gut histology of post-smolt salmon. In the first study, one Reference and one test diet, which was a blend of 70 % Reference and 30 % ACPC (70:30 ratio), were fed to juvenile salmon (57 ± 7 g) and feces were collected using settling columns. In the second study, post-smolt salmon (228 ± 4 g) were fed one Reference and three test diets, which consisted of three Reference to ACPC ratios: 90:10, 80:20 and 70:30. Feces were collected by manual stripping. The long-term study (168 days) was designed as a 2 × 4 full factorial analysis with two types of formula (Americas, with processed animal proteins (PAPs), and Europe, without PAPs) and four inclusion levels of ACPC (0, 10, 15, 20 %) fed to post-smolt Atlantic salmon (228 ± 5 g). Fish were bulk weighed every 28 or 56 days. Distal intestine and fillet were sampled (10 fish/tank) at the end for histological examination and color measurement, respectively. All diets (43–49 % crude protein, 18–25 % crude lipid depending on studies) were extruded and fed to apparent satiation. The apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) of ACPC protein in juvenile and post-smolt salmon were 89 % and ≥ 94 %, respectively. The essential amino acids ADCs in juvenile and post-smolt salmon were 83–99 % and 91–99 %, respectively. ACPC protein digestibility was not significantly affected by its inclusion level (P = 0.470). In the third experiment, growth (TGC: 0.143–0.160) and feed intake (668–780 g/fish) were not significantly affected by ACPC inclusion (P ≥ 0.10). Feed conversion ratios varied between 1.04 and 1.08. An unexpected occurrence of disease caused 1.6 % mortality over three weeks during the 24-week long-term study and survival was significantly higher in salmon fed ACPC-containing diets (P < 0.001). ACPC inclusion significantly increased fillet redness (P < 0.001) and increased villus length of distal intestine (P < 0.001). In conclusion, ACPC was a safe and nutritive protein alternative in salmon diets, regardless of inclusion level.

Effect of exercise intensity on growth performance, serum biochemistry parameters, liver antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) in recirculating aquaculture system

This study examined the impact of different exercise intensities on the growth performance, serum biochemistry, liver antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of common carp (Cyprinus carpio). A total of 270 common carp with an initial weight of 63.91 ± 1.45 g were divided into three groups: a Sustained Exercise group [SE, 1 bl/s (body length per second), 24 h/day], an Intermittent Exercise group (IE, 1 bl/s, 8 h/day), and a Control group (CG, 3 cm/s) for a 90-days experiment. The results demonstrated that exercise substantially improved weight gain rates in common carp. Analysis of serum biochemical parameters revealed that increased exercise intensity significantly reduced levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (T-CHO), and glucose (GLU) (P < 0.05). Post-exercise evaluations also indicated significant reductions in immune-related markers, including lysozyme (LZM), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Regarding liver antioxidant enzyme activities, the levels of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) were significantly higher in the IE group relative to the CG group (P < 0.05). Conversely, the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) was significantly lower in the SE group than in the CG group (P < 0.05). In terms of intestinal health, intermittent exercise significantly reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes and increased gut villus length. Additionally, an increase in exercise intensity significantly enhanced the activities of intestinal amylase and lipase. Analysis of the intestinal microbiota through 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that intermittent exercise fostered a more diverse microbial community. Specifically, with an increase in exercise intensity, the relative abundance of Fusobacteriota rose, while those of Firmicutes decreased. At the genus level, the abundances of Cetobacterium and Aeromonas increased, contrasting with declines in Muribaculaceae, Bacteroides, and Escherichia-Shigella. PICRUSt2 functional predictions suggest that exercise might modify the intestinal environment by increasing the prevalence of pathogenic bacterial communities, potentially leading to intestinal damage and adversely affecting the physiological state of the intestine. An observed increase in riboflavin metabolism in the SE group likely contributed to its markedly improved growth performance relative to other groups. In summary, sustained exercise at 1 bl/s improved growth and intestinal digestive enzyme activity in common carp. However, it also induced stress, potentially compromising physiological health, liver function, and immune strength, consequently elevating the risk of disease. These findings provide crucial insights for optimizing growth and physiological health in common carp and other fish species in recirculating aquaculture systems through exercise.

Cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside magic: Unveiling the power to inhibit cholesterol absorption via the intestinal farnesoid X receptor–bile acids pathway with Lactobacillus Marvel

AbstractCyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (C3G), an abundant and widely utilized anthocyanin monomer, has been shown to significantly inhibit cholesterol absorption. Building on our previous research demonstrating the role of Lactobacillus as a specific intestinal microflora associated with C3G‐mediated cholesterol absorption inhibition, the present study aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effects of C3G on high‐fat diet–induced cholesterol absorption. Results indicate that C3G significantly reduced total cholesterol and triglyceride levels while suppressing red grease formation in Caco‐2 cells. In vivo, C3G ameliorated blood lipid levels and mitigated small intestinal damage, as evidenced by restored villus length and basal thickness. Additionally, C3G upregulated intestinal farnesoid X receptor (FXR) mRNA expression and inhibited the expression of key cholesterol absorption proteins, Niemann‐Pick C1‐Like 1 and acetyl‐CoA acetyltransferase 2. Furthermore, C3G increased short‐chain fatty acid content and activated ileal bile acid‐binding protein expression. C3G also inhibited intestinal bile acid (BA) reabsorption, promoted fecal BA excretion, and obstructed cholesterol emulsification. Moreover, C3G modulated gut microbiota abundance and diversity, increasing the abundance of Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, Coprococcus, Ruminococcus, and Butyricicoccus. In conclusion, our findings suggest that C3G inhibits cholesterol absorption by reshaping intestinal flora composition and regulating the FXR‐BAs axis. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the use of C3G as a raw material for inhibiting cholesterol absorption.

Caecal villi? A comparative histological and morphometric study of caecal and jejunal mucosa in adult rabbits

BackgroundRabbits are herbivores with a distinctive digestive strategy that differs significantly from other caecal fermenters (e.g., horses, guinea pigs) and ruminants. In view of this, the current study aimed to highlight distinctive histological and morphometric features of the caecal mucosa in adult rabbits that accentuate its major role in digestion. The caecal and jejunal samples were harvested from five 1-year-old domestic rabbits and processed by regular paraffin-embedding histological technique followed by Goldner’s trichrome staining. A comprehensive morphological and morphometrical analysis of the jejunal mucosa vs. caecal mucosa was performed.ResultsMicroscopically, as in the case of the jejunal mucosa, the caecal mucosa presents long and often branched finger-like villi covered by a simple columnar epithelium mostly made of enterocytes with a prominent microvillous brush border. Besides, the caecal villi include a lacteal along with the villous muscle. Statistically, except for villus length, all the parameters assessed in the caecal mucosa, including villus width, villus count, thickness of the brush border and enterocyte/goblet cells ratio, revealed a high grade of similarities with the jejunal villi.ConclusionsAccording to the obtained results, the caecal mucosa in adult domestic rabbits includes unique features, namely caecal villi, structures infrequently presented in the large intestine of other adult mammals. Those structures once more emphasize the major role of the caecum not only in fermentation but also subliminally in local absorption. To our knowledge, this is the first reliable microanatomical and morphometric report of caecal villi in adult domestic rabbits.

Itaconic Acid Alleviates Perfluorooctanoic Acid-Induced Oxidative Stress and Intestinal Damage by Regulating the Keap1/Nrf2/Ho-1 Pathway and Reshaping the Gut Microbiota.

Itaconic acid (IA) is recognized for its potential application in treating intestinal diseases owing to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) can accumulate in animals and result in oxidative and inflammatory damages to multi-tissue and organ, particularly in the intestinal tract. This study aimed to explore whether IA could mitigate intestinal damage induced by PFOA exposure in laying hens and elucidate its potential underlying mechanisms. The results showed that IA improved the antioxidant capacity of laying hens and alleviated the oxidative damage induced by PFOA, as evidenced by the elevated activities of T-SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT, and the decreased MDA content in both the jejunum and serum. Furthermore, IA improved the intestinal morphological and structural integrity, notably attenuating PFOA-induced villus shedding, length reduction, and microvillus thinning. IA also upregulated the mRNA expression of ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1, and Mucin-2 in the jejunum, thereby restoring intestinal barrier function. Compared with the PF group, IA supplementation downregulated the gene expression of Keap1 and upregulated the HO-1, NQO1, SOD1, and GPX1 expression in the jejunum. Meanwhile, the PF + IA group exhibited lower expressions of inflammation-related genes (NF-κB, IL-1β, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-6) compared to the PF group. Moreover, IA reversed the PFOA-induced imbalance in gut microbiota by reducing the harmful bacteria such as Escherichia-Shigella, Clostridium innocuum, and Ruminococcus torques, while increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus. Correlation analysis further revealed a significant association between gut microbes, inflammatory factors, and the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway expression. In conclusion, dietary IA supplementation could alleviate the oxidative and inflammatory damage caused by PFOA exposure in the intestinal tract by reshaping the intestinal microbiota, modulating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory response, thereby promoting intestinal homeostasis.

Effect of Cuminum cyminum essential oil on growth, histology, intestinal histomorphology, blood parameters, gonadal development, antioxidant activity, and disease resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in Cyprinus carpio

AbstractThis study investigated the effects on growth performance, intestinal histomorphology, blood parameters, gonadal development, antioxidant activity, and disease resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila of carp fed with cumin. Fish were fed diets containing 0, 1.0, and 3.0 mL kg−1 cumin for 60 days. At the end of the experiment, the use of cumin oil did not affect growth performances and survival rate after challenge with A. hydrophila (p &gt; 0.05). However, villi length and goblet cells increased in carp fed with cumin diets. In addition, no pathological findings were observed in the hepatopancreas, gonad, and intestine tissues of carp fed with cumin. Total protein; albumin; aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase levels; superoxide dismutase; and catalase activity were similar in cumin oil supplemented groups compared with the control. Both male and female fecundity increased with the addition of 1.0 mL kg−1 cumin, whereas the addition of 3.0 mL kg−1 cumin caused a slight decrease in fertility. As a result, the use of cumin essential oil at 1 mL kg−1 concentration can be recommended to improve fish health and increase fertility in carp culture.

Plasma Biochemistry, Intestinal Health, and Transcriptome Analysis Reveal Why Laying Hens Produce Translucent Eggs.

Producing translucent eggs has been found to reduce the quality and safety of the eggs, as well as the demand from consumers. However, the intestinal function and the molecular mechanism for the production of translucent eggs remain uncertain. A total of 120 eggs from 276-day-old Jining Bairi were divided into two groups based on eggshell translucence: the translucent egg group (group T) and the normal group (group C). Group T exhibited thicker eggshells and a lower egg yolk color. Subsequently, we divided the chickens into translucent and normal groups based on their egg quality. We then assessed the plasma biochemical index, intestinal morphology and structure, enzyme activity, and antioxidant capacity of the hens producing translucent eggs compared to those producing normal eggs. The results showed that the ratio of duodenal villus length to crypt depth, succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity, chymotrypsin, total ATPase (T-ATPase), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were decreased in the hens produced translucent eggs (p < 0.05), but malondialdehyde (MDA) content was increased (p < 0.05); jejunal lipase activity, Na+K+-ATPase activity, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and GSH-Px activities were decreased (p < 0.05) in group T; ileal amylase and Ca2+Mg2+-ATPase activities were also decreased (p < 0.05) in group T. In addition, we identified a total of 471 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in duodenal tissue, with 327 up-regulated genes and 144 down-regulated genes (|log2FC| ≥ 1 and p < 0.05). Enrichment analysis showed that the up-regulated genes, such as GSTT1, GSTO2, and GSTA3, were mostly enriched in metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, drug metabolism-cytochrome P450, and oxidative phosphorylation pathways. The results of our study indicate that plasma lipid metabolism disorder, decreased intestinal antioxidant capacity, and altered intestinal metabolism capabilities may influence the formation of translucent eggs.

MICROBIOME AND INFLAMMASOME ALTERATIONS FOUND DURING RADIATION DOSE FINDING IN A SINCLAIR MINIPIG MODEL OF GASTROINTESTINAL ACUTE RADIATION SYNDROME.

Both abdominal radiotherapy and a nuclear event can result in gastrointestinal symptoms, including acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS). GI-ARS is characterized by compromised intestinal barrier integrity increasing the risk for infectious complications. Physiologically relevant animal models are crucial for elucidating host responses and therapeutic targets. We aimed to determine the radiation dose requirements for creating GI-ARS in the Sinclair minipig. Male, sexually mature swine were randomly divided into sham (n = 6) and three lower hemibody radiation dosage groups of 8, 10, and 12 Gy (n = 5/group) delivered using linear accelerator-derived x-rays (1.9 Gy/min). Animals were monitored for GI-ARS symptoms for 14 days with rectal swab and blood collection at days 0-3, 7, 10, and 14 followed by necropsy for western blotting and histology. Dose-dependent increases in weight loss, diarrhea severity, and mortality (log-rank test, P = 0.041) were seen. Villi length was significantly reduced in all irradiated animals compared to controls ( P < 0.001). Serum citrulline decreased and bacterial translocation increased after irradiation compared to controls. Increased NLRP3 levels in post-mortem jejunum were seen ( P = 0.0043) as well as increased IL-1β levels in the 12 Gy group ( P = 0.041). Radiation dose and survival were associated with significant gut microbial community shifts in beta diversity. Moreover, decedents had increased Porphyromonas, Campylobacter, Bacteroides , Parvimonas , and decreased Fusobacterium and decreased Aerococcus, Lactobacillus, Prevotella, and Streptococcus . Our novel Sinclair minipig model showed dose-dependent clinical symptoms of GI-ARS. These findings provide invaluable insights into the intricate interplay between GI-ARS, intestinal inflammation, and gut microbiota alterations offering potential targets for therapeutic and diagnostic interventions after radiation exposure.

Non-targeted metabolomics analysis of fermented traditional Chinese medicine and its impact on growth performance, serum biochemistry, and intestinal microbiome of weaned lambs

Fermented traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been identified as a low-cost and promising feed additive to to alleviate weaning stress in young livestock and poultry effectively. This study investigated the impact of probiotic fermentation on the metabolite content of BanQi (Radix Isatidis and Astragalus membranaceus) extract while also examined the effects of both fermented-BanQi (FBQ) and unfermented-BanQi (UBQ) on growth performance, serum biochemistry, intestinal villi, and gut microbiota in weaned lambs. This study demonstrated that compared with UBQ, FBQ contained significantly higher levels of free amino acids (e.g., phenylalanine and isoleucine), short peptides (e.g., Val–Leu–Pro–Val–Pro–Gln and Gly–Leu), and the active ingredients (e.g., vindesine and reserpine) (P < 0.05). The addition of FBQ to the diet significantly increased the final body weight and average daily gain of weaned lambs (P < 0.05). In addition, FBQ significantly increased the total protein level in the serum and the villus length of the jejunum and ileum in lambs, while significantly reduced the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea (P < 0.05). Sequencing of the intestinal flora showed that FBQ improved the diversity of intestinal flora and promoted the enrichment of beneficial bacteria in the lamb intestine, such as Mogibacterium and Butyrivibrio, compared to NC or UBQ groups (P < 0.05). Fermentation with Bacillus subtilis can enhance the content of free amino acids, peptides, and active ingredients in BanQi extract, making it an effective method to improve the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine. Adding FBQ to the diet can improve the growth performance of weaned lambs, and its mechanism may be related to increasing the height of intestinal villi and increasing the diversity of intestinal flora.

Evaluation of antioxidant prophylactic effects of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) on sepsis following cecal ligation and puncture

Objective: Sepsis causes the release of free oxygen radicals that disrupt membrane integrity, and damage to Mitochondria due to the production of free oxygen radicals and oxidation leads to exacerbation of sepsis, Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats mimics the characteristics and course of clinical sepsis (Hubbard et al., 2005). Methods: We evaluated the antioxidant effects of Petroselinum crispum (Pc) in a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced rat sepsis model, in a rat model of sepsis caused by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Wistar albino rats were separated into four groups of eight groups: a sham group with incised and sutured abdomens; a Pc extract (PcE) group, which was given 2 g/kg parsley extract for 14 days by gastric gavage; a CLP group, which was subjected to sepsis caused by CLP; and a PcE + CLP group, which was given parsley extract for 14 days. PcE was given for 14 days, after which sepsis was induced via the CLP procedure. The groups were compared in terms of hemogram, biochemical and histological characteristics. Results: The administration of PcE before CLP-induced sepsis increases neutrophil counts, PLTs and TASs, which decrease with sepsis, and decreases biochemical changes (BUN, AST, ALT, LDH, TOS, and OSI), which increase with sepsis, to protect against sepsis. Compared with that in the CLP group, the severity of intestinal infiltration was significantly lower in the PcE + CLP group; however, the degree of epithelial damage in the PcE + CLP group was similar to that in the CLP group. In the PcE + CLP group, the crypt and villus lengths were greater, and the decrease in Paneth cell degranulation intensity was greater than that in the CLP group. Conclusion: Additionally, the morphology of the cells in the PcE + CLP group was similar to that in the sham group. PcE has potential as a prophylactic agent for sepsis.

Neurotoxicity and intestinal microbiota dysbiosis induced by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in crucian carp (Carassius auratus)

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been called "forever chemicals" due to their inherent chemical stability. Their potential toxic effects on aquatic animals and health risk assessments have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the toxic effects of PFASs at environmentally relevant concentrations (200 ng/L) on crucian carp (Carassius auratus). The results showed that PFAS reduced the comfort behaviour of crucian carp and was associated with reduced levels of acetylcholinesterase and dopamine in the brain. PFAS exposure also decreased the activities of total superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, while increasing the levels of malondialdehyde. PFAS caused over-expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ and stress-related genes Caspase-3, HSP-70 in the fish brain. Pathological staining showed that PFAS caused multifocal demyelination and perineural vacuolization in brain, intestinal tissue also showed reduced villus length and focal damage. PFASs altered the composition of the gut microbiota of crucian carp, significantly increasing the abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria and the potential pathogenicity of the microbiota. It is suggested that PFASs may cause varying degrees of tissue damage by destabilising the gut microbiota. These results provide insights for assessing the toxicity of PFAS contaminants at aquatic environmental concentrations.

Effects of Resistant-Starch-Encapsulated Probiotic Cocktail on Intestines Damaged by 5-Fluorouracil.

Probiotics and prebiotics have gained attention for their potential health benefits. However, their efficacy hinges on probiotic survival through the harsh gastrointestinal environment. Microencapsulation techniques provide a solution, with resistant starch (RS)-based techniques showing promise in maintaining probiotic viability. Specifically, RS-encapsulated probiotics significantly improved probiotic survival in gastric acid, bile salts, and simulated intestinal conditions. This study investigated the effects of a resistant-starch-encapsulated probiotic cocktail (RS-Pro) in the context of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy, which frequently induces microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal mucositis. Female BALB/c mice were divided into three groups: a 5-FU group, a 5-FU+Pro group receiving free probiotics, and a 5-FU+RS-Pro group receiving RS-encapsulated probiotics. After 28 days of treatment, analyses were conducted on fecal microbiota, intestinal histology, peripheral blood cell counts, and body and organ weights. It was revealed by 16S rRNA MiSeq sequencing that 5-FU treatment disrupted gut microbiota composition, reduced microbial diversity, and caused dysbiosis. RS-Pro treatment restored microbial diversity and increased the population of beneficial bacteria, such as Muribaculaceae, which play roles in carbohydrate and polyphenol metabolism. Furthermore, 5-FU administration induced moderate intestinal mucositis, characterized by reduced cellularity and shortened villi. However, RS-Pro treatment attenuated 5-FU-induced intestinal damage, preserving villus length. Mild leukopenia observed in the 5-FU-treated mice was partially alleviated in 5-FU+Pro and 5-FU+RS-Pro groups. These findings suggest that RS-Pro may serve as an adjunct to chemotherapy, potentially reducing adverse effects and improving therapeutic outcomes in future clinical applications.