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Effects of dietary fibre consumption during pregnancy on gut microbial composition and immunity of offspring

Hongyu Lu , Jian Wu, Qian Cheng, Muhammad Junaid, Yixiang Li, Yi Xiong, Xian Li, Jianhua Yan

Abstract

Context. Piglets encounter numerous challenges post-birth, and positive maternal influences can significantly aid their survival. Aims. This study aimed to investigate the potential impact of dietary fibre (DF) consumption during pregnancy on the establishment of colonic flora and immunity in offspring. Methods. Sixty-eight multiparous sows were randomly assigned to either a control diet lacking fibre sources (CON) or a diet supplemented with a fibre mixture (FM). The study evaluated the developmental status, intestinal microecology, and immune indices, including the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and IFN-γ, as well as the concentrations of C3, C4, IgG, and IgM in the offspring. Key results. The findings revealed a significant reduction in TLR4 and NF-κB mRNA levels in the colon and TNF-α levels in the serum of 21-day-weaned piglets from the FM group, indicating a decrease in inflammation. Moreover, there was a notable increase in the abundance of Roseburia and Lactobacillus in the colons of weaned piglets from the FM group, while Odoribacter showed a substantial decrease. This indicates that sows transfer beneficial microorganisms to their piglets, and FM supplementation further enhances these positive microbial changes. Conclusion. This study highlights the positive impact of a 3% purified fibre mixture (FM) supplementation in sow diets during pregnancy on the microbiota profile and immunity of piglets. These findings hold implications for the enhanced development of weaned piglets, providing valuable theoretical support.

AN24077  Accepted 04 November 2024

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