Impact of Yeast-Derived β-Glucans on the Porcine Gut Microbiota and Immune System in Early Life
2020
Hugo de Vries | Mirelle Geervliet | Christine A. Jansen | Victor P. M. G. Rutten | Hubèrt van Hees | Natalie Groothuis | Jerry M. Wells | Huub F. J. Savelkoul | Edwin Tijhaar | Hauke Smidt
Piglets are susceptible to infections in early life and around weaning due to rapid environmental and dietary changes. A compelling target to improve pig health in early life is diet, as it constitutes a pivotal determinant of gut microbial colonization and maturation of the host&rsquo:s immune system. In the present study, we investigated how supplementation of yeast-derived &beta:-glucans affects the gut microbiota and immune function pre- and post-weaning, and how these complex systems develop over time. From day two after birth until two weeks after weaning, piglets received yeast-derived &beta:-glucans or a control treatment orally and were subsequently vaccinated against Salmonella Typhimurium. Faeces, digesta, blood, and tissue samples were collected to study gut microbiota composition and immune function. Overall, yeast-derived &beta:-glucans did not affect the vaccination response, and only modest effects on faecal microbiota composition and immune parameters were observed, primarily before weaning. This study demonstrates that the pre-weaning period offers a &lsquo:window of opportunity&rsquo: to alter the gut microbiota and immune system through diet. However, the observed changes were modest, and any long-lasting effects of yeast-derived &beta:-glucans remain to be elucidated.
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