Araceae root and citrus fibers tend to decrease Escherichia coli adhesion and myeloperoxidase levels in weaned...

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Gut Microbiome Research
• Swine Nutrition

Background:

• Weaning induces stress and gut health issues in piglets, often leading to post-weaning diarrhea caused by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (E. coli).
• E. coli infection initiates with adhesion to enterocytes, triggering pro-inflammatory responses, highlighting the need for preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of specific dietary fiber fractions derived from Araceae root and citrus in preventing E. coli adhesion and subsequent immune responses in weaned piglets.
• To evaluate the impact of these fiber fractions on gut microbiota composition, short-chain fatty acid production, and intestinal inflammation markers.

Main Methods:

• A trial involving 200 piglets fed either a control diet or a test diet supplemented with 2 kg/ton of specific fiber fractions from weaning to 14 days post-weaning.
• Quantification of E. coli colonization on the mucosal epithelium, assessment of histo-morphological indices, and analysis of inflammatory cytokine gene expression.
• Analysis of intestinal bacteria, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and fecal biomarkers for intestinal inflammation (MPO, calprotectin).

Main Results:

• Piglets fed the fiber mixture showed a trend towards decreased E. coli colonization in the small intestine and caecum.
• The fiber supplementation tended to increase Lachnospiraceae in the colon and cecal butyric acid levels.
• A trend towards decreased fecal myeloperoxidase (MPO) concentration was observed, suggesting reduced intestinal inflammation.

Conclusions:

• Specific fiber fractions from Araceae root and citrus may reduce E. coli adhesion and subsequent pathogen overgrowth in weaned piglets.
• Dietary fiber supplementation shows potential in mitigating intestinal inflammation and improving gut health during the post-weaning period.
• These findings suggest a promising role for targeted fiber inclusion in piglet diets to manage E. coli-related health issues.