Phytogenic Bioactive Compounds Shape Fish Mucosal Immunity.

Area of Science:

• Aquaculture
• Fish immunology
• Natural product chemistry

Background:

• Sustainable aquaculture growth necessitates innovative feed strategies, with phytogenics emerging as key functional feed additives.
• Phytogenics, rich in terpenes and organosulfur compounds, offer growth promotion, antimicrobial, and immunostimulant benefits, crucial for fish mucosal immunity.
• Current research often lacks mechanistic insights into phytogenic effects and suffers from unstandardized testing, hindering commercial adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the mode of action of phytogenics on fish mucosal immune responses.
• To advocate for standardized and reproducible research methodologies for evaluating novel aquafeed additives.
• To provide insights into the safe and effective application of phytogenics in aquaculture.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of existing literature on phytogenics in aquafeeds.
• Emphasis on *in vitro* screening of purified compounds before *in vivo* trials.
• Discussion of advanced methodologies for pharmacokinetic and mechanistic studies.

Main Results:

• Phytogenics modulate fish mucosal immunity through various pharmacological effects.
• Standardized research is essential for validating efficacy and safety.
• Encapsulation and characterized compound combinations can improve delivery and prevent resistance.

Conclusions:

• Phytogenics hold significant potential for sustainable aquaculture, but rigorous scientific validation is required.
• Standardized *in vitro* and *in vivo* studies are recommended for accurate assessment.
• Future research should focus on pharmacokinetics, delivery systems, and mechanistic understanding.