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Changes in Growth Performance and Ileal Microbiota Composition by Xylanase Supplementation in Broilers Fed
Jian Wang1, Sujie Liu1, Jiayu Ma1
1State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.
Frontiers in Microbiology
|August 2, 2021
Summary
Xylanase supplementation in broiler diets enhances growth and gut health by modulating ileal microbiota. These improvements, particularly in young birds, involve increased beneficial bacteria and reduced pathogens, leading to better intestinal morphology and immune function.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Microbiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Xylanase is crucial for broiler growth and gut health on wheat-based diets.
- Limited data exists on xylanase's impact on ileal microbiota in broilers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of AT-xynA xylanase on broiler growth, ileal morphology, microbiota, immune response, and endocrine peptides.
- To understand the relationship between xylanase, gut microbiota, and intestinal health in broilers.
Main Methods:
- 128 broilers were fed a basal diet or basal diet with 4,000 U/kg AT-xynA.
- Growth performance, ileal morphology, digesta microbiota, immune markers, and endocrine peptides were analyzed on days 7-42.
- Microbiota composition was analyzed on days 21 and 42.
Main Results:
- Xylanase improved average daily gain and feed intake, with diet-age interactions.
- Ileal microbiota alpha-diversity decreased; beneficial Lactobacillus increased, while Proteobacteria and pathogenic genera decreased.
- Xylanase enhanced villus height, beneficial hormones (GLP-1, IGF-1), and reduced inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and oxidative stress (MDA).
Conclusions:
- Xylanase supplementation improves broiler intestinal morphology, immune function, and reduces bacterial fermentation via microbiota modulation.
- Positive effects on intestinal health are more pronounced in young broilers, contributing to overall growth performance.
