Enterococcus faecium NCIMB 10415 supplementation affects intestinal immune-associated gene expression in post-weaning...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary immunology
• Microbiome-host interactions
• Animal nutrition

Background:

• Probiotics like Enterococcus faecium NCIMB 10415 (SF68) are used to modulate gut health in livestock.
• Previous studies noted delayed immune responses in piglets supplemented with this probiotic during Salmonella challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of Enterococcus faecium NCIMB 10415 (SF68) supplementation on immune-associated gene expression in piglets.
• To clarify how probiotic administration affects the host immune response to Salmonella infection.

Main Methods:

• Long-term feeding trials with pre- and post-weaning piglets supplemented with E. faecium NCIMB 10415 (SF68).
• Analysis of immune-associated gene expression (cytokines, co-stimulatory molecules) in intestinal tissues (Peyer's patches), spleen, and blood serum.
• Salmonella challenge studies to assess infection outcomes.

Main Results:

• E. faecium NCIMB 10415 (SF68) supplementation led to post-weaning dysregulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine expression in intestinal tissues and spleen.
• Reduced mRNA expression of IL-8, IL-10, and CD86 was observed in ileal Peyer's patches of supplemented piglets.
• Elevated TGF-β and IL-6 in pre-weaning piglets may have suppressed IFN-γ production, while post-weaning, altered IL-8 expression was noted in mesenteric lymph nodes and spleen.

Conclusions:

• Supplementation with E. faecium NCIMB 10415 (SF68) affects intestinal immune gene expression, with effects exacerbated post-weaning.
• Reduced gene expression post-weaning may delay host response to infections, creating a "window of opportunity" for pathogens like Salmonella.
• These immune modulations could explain increased bacterial loads and shedding observed in challenge trials.