Chlorogenic Acid Improves Intestinal Development via Suppressing Mucosa Inflammation and Cell Apoptosis in Weaned...

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutrition
• Immunology

Background:

• Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a plant polyphenol with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Intestinal health is crucial for nutrient absorption and overall well-being in weaned animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of dietary Chlorogenic acid (CGA) on the intestinal development and health of weaned pigs.
• To evaluate CGA's impact on immune responses and apoptosis in the pig intestine.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four weaned pigs were fed either a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 1000 mg/kg CGA for 14 days.
• Serum and jejunal samples were collected to analyze immune markers, intestinal morphology, cell cycle, apoptosis, and gene expression.

Main Results:

• CGA supplementation reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) and increased immunoglobulins (IgG, jejunal IgA).
• Intestinal morphology improved with increased villus height and width, and enhanced villus height/crypt depth ratios.
• CGA modulated cell cycle, decreased apoptosis, and altered the expression of key apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Fas).

Conclusions:

• Chlorogenic acid (CGA) positively influences intestinal development and health in weaned pigs.
• Benefits are attributed to improved immune defense and reduced intestinal epithelial cell apoptosis.
• CGA shows potential as a dietary supplement for enhancing gut health in livestock.