Gut Microbiota-Derived Metabolites to Regulate Intramuscular Fat Deposition in Pigs

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Intramuscular fat (IMF) significantly impacts pork quality attributes like tenderness and flavor.
• Selective breeding practices have inadvertently decreased IMF levels in contemporary pig populations.
• Understanding IMF deposition is vital for improving pork production and consumer satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing intramuscular fat deposition in pigs.
• To explore advancements in non-invasive techniques for detecting IMF.
• To elucidate the intricate relationship between gut microbiota and IMF accumulation.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on molecular pathways (e.g., Wnt/β-catenin, PPARγ) involved in adipogenesis.
• Analysis of non-invasive detection technologies, including hyperspectral imaging and Raman spectroscopy.
• Examination of studies utilizing omics analyses, fecal microbiota transplantation, and germ-free models to link gut microbiota to IMF.

Main Results:

• Identified key molecular pathways and progenitor cell differentiation processes regulating IMF.
• Highlighted the potential of hyperspectral imaging and Raman spectroscopy for non-invasive IMF assessment.
• Established correlations and causal links between gut microbial composition, metabolites (SCFAs, bile acids), and host lipid metabolism via specific signaling pathways (GPR43, FXR, TGR5).

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiota and its metabolites play a significant role in modulating lipid metabolism and IMF deposition.
• Integrating multi-omics data and developing targeted probiotics are promising strategies for enhancing IMF efficiency.
• These approaches can contribute to more sustainable and efficient pork production systems.