Characterization of the Early Life Microbiota Development and Predominant Lactobacillus Species at Distinct Gut Segments of Low- and Normal-Birth-Weight Piglets

Conclusion In summary, the results of this study provide novel evidence for an alteration of the microbiome in ileum and colon of the LBW piglets. Compared with their normal littermates, LBW piglets had significantly different bacterial communities, microbial metabolism, and microbial gene functions in the ileum and colon from 7 to 35 days of age, especially in the colon. Relative abundances of some SCFAs-producing microbes, which belong to the families Bacteroidaceae, Ruminococcaceae, Prevotellaceae, and Lachnospiraceae, were dramatically decreased in LBW piglets. Reduction of these bacteria led to decreased production of SCFAs, thereby reflecting a poorer ability to ferment dietary fiber in the hindgut of LBW piglets than that of NBW piglets. Moreover, decreased numbers of L. amylovorus and L. salivarius in the gut of LBW piglets implies that these two Lactobacillus species could be used as potential probiotics to improve the growth and development of LBW piglets. Moreover, a clear alteration in gut microbial functionality of the LBW piglets was characterized by the altered proportions of microbial genes involved in multiple pathways such as amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism, replication and repair, and metabolism of cofactors and vitamins. This work will provide new directions in identifying the reliable biomarkers affecting early colonization of gut microbiota in LBW piglets and facilitate the development of new nutritional interventions. Data Availability The d...
Source: Frontiers in Microbiology - Category: Microbiology Source Type: research