Effect of fermented rapeseed meal in the mixture for growing pigs on the gastrointestinal tract, antioxidant status, and immune response

Abstract

The ban on the use of zinc oxide has increased interest in probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics and organic acids, as well as fermented components in the diet of weaned piglets. This study assessed the effect of 8% fermented rapeseed meal in weaner diets on characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract, the small intestinal microbiota, and immune and antioxidant status. The effects were determined by measuring biochemical and haematological blood parameters, levels of class G, A and M immunoglobulins and IL-6, and the antioxidant potential of the plasma. After slaughter, the gastrointestinal tract was measured, the viscosity of the digesta was determined, and microbiological tests were performed. The results showed that the fermented component reduced the viscosity of the digesta and the length of segments of the gastrointestinal tract. It caused a statistically significant increase in lactic acid bacteria and a decrease in total bacteria. The haematological and biochemical analyses of the blood confirmed the biological activity of the fermented component. Pigs from group FR had significantly higher haemoglobin levels (p = 0.001), RBC count (p = 0.015), and haematocrit (Ht) value (p < 0.001) than the control animals. A diet including 8% rapeseed meal fermented using Bacillus subtilis strain 87Y benefits gastrointestinal function by stabilizing and improving the function of the bacterial microbiota, inhibiting growth of certain pathogens, and strengthening immunity.

Effect of Fermented Rapeseed Meal in Diets for Piglets on Blood Biochemical Parameters and the Microbial Composition of the Feed and Faeces

“…The experiment was carried out in farm conditions, and for hygiene and economic reasons the owners of the farm did not consent to the use of negative control, i.e., a diet without zinc oxide or any additives improving the animal’s immune function. The ingredient composition and nutrient content of the diets are presented in Table 1 [ 23 ]. Piglets were provided ad libitum access to water during the entire experimental trial.…”

“…Diets for chemical and microbiological analysis were sampled twice, at the beginning and end of the experiment. Some of the results for nutrients and minerals contained in the diets are presented by Czech et al [ 23 ].…”

Bacillus subtilis spores displaying RBD domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

“…When considering whether recombinant B. subtilis spores displaying the RBD-CotY and/or RBD-CotZ fusion proteins would be suitable for oral vaccine development, several factors speak in their favor. First, B. subtilis is considered GRAS (generally regarded as safe) by the US Food and Drug Administration and is also used as a probiotic and feed additive product for humans and animals [47] , [48] , [49] . Spores can survive the harsh environment in the gastrointestinal tract caused by gastric acids and thus they are an ideal vehicle for the oral administration of vaccines [16] , [50] .…”

Comparison of the Pig Breeds in the Small Intestinal Morphology and Digestive Functions at Different Ages

“…Plasma biochemical parameters and plasma-free amino acid content can reflect the metabolism and growth of the body [ 19 ]. The ALT and AST are important transaminases in the amino acid metabolism, and a higher concentration means a stronger amino acid metabolism [ 20 ].…”