Gut Microbiological Disorders Reduce Semen Utilization Rate in Duroc Boars

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Microbiology
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in host health.
• Its influence on male fertility, particularly in livestock, remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between gut microbiota, intestinal permeability, and inflammation in Duroc boars with varying semen utilization rates.
• To identify specific microbial taxa and functions associated with high and low semen utilization.

Main Methods:

• 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing was used to analyze fecal microbiota composition and function.
• Measurements included fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), plasma endotoxin, zonulin, diamine oxidase, lipocalin-2, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 levels.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in gut microbiota composition and function were observed between high and low semen utilization groups.
• Boars with low semen utilization showed increased intestinal permeability and systemic inflammation markers (endotoxin, zonulin, diamine oxidase, lipocalin-2, IL-6, TNF-α).
• Specific genera like *Ruminococcus* and *Sphingobium* were enriched in low utilization boars, while *RFN20* and *Paludibacter* were enhanced in high utilization boars, with *RFN20* positively correlating with semen utilization.

Conclusions:

• Gut microbiota composition and function vary with boar semen utilization rates.
• Low semen utilization is associated with compromised intestinal barrier function and heightened systemic inflammation.
• These findings highlight the gut microbiota's significant role in male reproductive health and performance in boars.