Animal Bioscience最新文献

Objective: This study aimed to assess the interaction between chicken myofibrillar protein and cranberry bean powder (CBP) processed through different drying methods oven-drying (OD) and freeze-drying (FD) along with cranberry bean protein isolates (CBPI), on the rheological properties of chicken myofibrillar protein gels (MPGs).

Methods: Two experiments were done in this study. The extracted myofibrillar protein gel (MPG) treated with different levels of CBP in different drying methods was prepared for the first experiment. The MPG with CBP and CBPI with different drying methods was prepared and compared to SPI for the second experiment. The cooking yield (CY), gel strength (GS), viscosity, SDS-PAGE and microstructure were measured in both experiments.

Results: The results showed that FDI exhibited the best gel strength, cooking yield, and viscosity, which were comparable to those of soy protein isolate (SPI). FDI demonstrated superior protein-protein interactions, with SDS-PAGE and scanning electron microscopy analyses revealing well-formed structures. FD performed better than OD in terms of gel strength and viscosity but still lower than FDI. OD samples, which contained higher levels of carbohydrates and starch, displayed lower gel strength and less stable gel networks, indicating that starch may interfere with protein matrix formation.

Conclusion: The addition of FDI or SPI was shown to be the most effective in enhancing the rheological properties of MPGs, and the higher levels of powder addition also improved the results, including viscosity, gel strength, and cooking yield.

Objective: Exercise under desert heat disrupts camel respiratory and metabolic balance. Unlike the Henderson-Hasselbalch model, limited to bicarbonate and carbon dioxide, Stewart's physicochemical approach clarifies regulation through strong-ion and weak-acid effects. This experiment investigated post-exercise acid-base recovery dynamics in exercise-unacclimatized dromedary camels under hot conditions using Stewart's approach.

Methods: Five healthy bulls completed a standardized 90-min field exercise at ~14 km·h⁻¹ during midday heat, with recovery monitored at baseline (2h pre-exercise) and at 0,3,6,24 and 48h. Sixteen variables spanning respiratory, strong-ion, and weak-acid domains were measured or derived, together with biometeorological indices and ventilatory responses. Visualization tools were used to resolve temporal dynamics and inter-individual variability.

Results: Ambient temperature and relative humidity fluctuated markedly, with the highest heat load at PRE/0 and again at 24-48h, and a transiently cooler but more humid interval at 3-6h. A triphasic recovery pattern was observed. Immediately post-exercise (0h), respiratory rate rose sharply and pH showed mild alkalinization with decreases in pCO₂, bicarbonate, and base excess, accompanied by marked reductions in oxygenation indices and early strong-ion shifts. During early recovery (3-6h), respiratory rate declined toward baseline, while sodium excursions, hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia (P<0.05), widened SIDa, contracted SIDe, and a positive strong-ion gap persisted. By late recovery (24-48h), respiratory variables largely normalized, whereas sodium instability, sustained potassium and phosphate depression (P<0.05), and renewed SIG elevation indicated incomplete restoration.

Conclusion: Stewart analysis showed prolonged disruption driven by persistent strong-ion and weak-acid disequilibria rather than respiratory adjustment alone. In this small cohort of exercise-unacclimatized dromedary camels studied under a single standardized field-exercise protocol, environmental cooling did not ensure systemic normalization, and recovery was constrained by intrinsic physiological inertia. Clinically, recovery after exertional heat exposure cannot be assumed complete within 24h, underscoring monitoring of strong-ion and protein-phosphate domains alongside conventional blood gases. Such an experiment provides a time-resolved, mechanistic, hypothesis-generating reference framework.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of varying levels of chitosan supplementation in total mixed ration (TMR) silage on the abundance and dynamics of rumen microbial communities, as well as their associated metabolomic profiles.

Methods: Next-generation sequencing and liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry-based metabolomics were employed to assess alterations in rumen microbiota and metabolites composition in response to chitosan supplementation in TMR silage.

Results: A total of 304 metabolites were identified in TMR silage, 144 of which had a variable importance in projection (VIP) scores greater than 1, marking them as distinguishing metabolites. Notably, chitosan supplementation increased L-valine levels, identifying it as a potential biomarker metabolite. In rumen fluid samples, 34 metabolites were identified, with 13 exhibiting VIP scores over 1, classifying them as key metabolite indicators. Chitosan supplementation significantly elevated amine compounds, particularly Dibenzylamine and N,N-Bis(2-hydroxyethyl) dodecanamide, in rumen fluid. The primary phyla affected by chitosan in TMR silage were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, and Firmicutes. Additionally, the genera Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-002 and Prevotella decreased with chitosan supplementation, whereas Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group exhibited increased abundance. Predominantly negative correlations were observed between rumen fluid metabolites (particularly amines and indoles) and microbial populations belonging to Bacteroidota and Firmicutes.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that chitosan supplementation alters rumen metabolic activity and reduced microbial diversity within the rumen.

Objective: This study investigated the effects of dietary tannic acid on methane production, nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbiota in Liuyang black goats.

Methods: Twelve adult goats were randomly assigned to two groups: a control group and a treatment group that received 2% tannic acid in their diet. The experiment consisted of two stages, each comprising a 10-day adaptation period followed by and a 5-day sampling phase. Methane emission was measured using a mobile open-circuit respirometry system, while rumen fluid samples were analyzed for volatile fatty acids, ammonia nitrogen, and microbial composition by 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results: The results indicated that the tannic acid significantly reduced overall methane emission (p<0.05), methane per dry matter intake (p<0.05), acid detergent fiber intake (p<0.05), and neutral detergent fiber intake (p<0.05). Microbial analysis showed increased relative abundance of Firmicutes (p<0.05) and decreased Methanobrevibacter and Prevotella. Before feeding, tannic acid led to a significant increase in the concentration of valerate in the rumen fluid (p<0.05), while the acetate to propionate ratio was significantly decreased (p<0.05). Three hours post feeding, the concentrations of both butyrate and valerate were significantly increased (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Dietary tannic acid effectively reduced methane emission and enhanced feed efficiency in Liuyang black goats by modifying rumen fermentation and microbial activity. These findings indicate the potential of tannic acid as a sustainable feed supplement for ruminants; nevertheless, the long-term effects on health and production necessitate more research.

Objective: The effectiveness of bovine embryo transfer (ET) programs is significantly influenced by selection of optimal recipient cows, in which a functional corpus luteum (CL) is critical for the maintenance of pregnancy. The relationship between CL size and blood perfusion (CLBP) has been extensively studied; however, the implications of CL cavities (CLcav) on fertility remain controversial. This study aimed to assess the functional significance of CLcav in the selection of recipients for ET by evaluating its association with pregnancy outcomes, CLBP, and hormonal profiles.

Methods: Ninety-eight Hanwoo cows were subjected to estrus synchronization and evaluated using transrectal ultrasonography. Eighty-five recipients were selected based on CL diameter (≥15 mm) and the absence of large dominant follicles with 10 mm or more. On Day 6.5 post-estrus, CL type (compact vs. cavitary), CLBP (color Doppler), and hormone levels (estradiol [E2] and progesterone [P4]) were recorded. ET was performed using in vitro-produced fresh or vitrified embryos, with pregnancy status assessed 40-60 days following transfer.

Results: CLcav identified in 18.8% of recipients, but pregnancy rates were not significantly different between cows with and without CLcav (50.0% vs. 62.3%, p>0.05). When CLcav occupied ≥40% of the CL volume (with CLcav diameter 18 mm or less), conception rates improved (62.5% vs. 37.5%), in conjungtion with elevated E2 levels. At CLBP levels of 40% or higher, both CLcav size and P4 concentration reached their peak, but excessive CLBP did not enhance conception rates.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that CLcav does not negatively affect luteal function or pregnancy outcomes and may, in some cases, indicate enhanced luteal activity. Integrating CL morphology, vascularization, and hormonal balance into recipient selection criteria could improve ET efficiency. Future studies should explore the physiological mechanisms that contribure to CLcav formation and its role in reproductive success.

Objective: This study evaluated the regulatory effects of Bulbophyllum drymoglossum aqueous extract (BDAE) on oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and metabolic reprogramming in porcine alveolar macrophages.

Methods: BDAE was prepared through aqueous extraction, and its chemical composition was characterized through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Cytotoxicity and antioxidant properties of the extract were evaluated in NIH/3T3 fibroblasts and 3D4/31 porcine alveolar macrophages using cell viability assays, flow cytometry, and fluorescence imaging techniques. Mitochondrial function was assessed via the measurement of mitochondrial mass and membrane potential by MitoTracker Red and JC-1 staining methods, respectively. The metabolic effects were examined through flow cytometric analysis of glucose uptake and lipid accumulation. Additionally, gene expression levels related to fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes were quantified using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis.

Results: BDAE exhibited low cytotoxicity and effectively reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species under both basal and inflammatory conditions. It maintained mitochondrial membrane potential and prevented phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. BDAE reversed PMA-induced metabolic alterations by restoring glucose uptake, enhancing the expression of genes involved in fatty acid β-oxidation, lipogenesis, and mitochondrial respiratory complexes, and attenuated lipid accumulation in macrophages. The bioactivities were associated with the extract's abundance of carbohydrate derivatives and polyols.

Conclusion: BDAE shows significant antioxidative and metabolic regulatory effects in macrophages, suggesting its potential as a natural bioactive compound for modulating immunometabolism and oxidative stress in animal health. Additional in vivo validation and mechanistic studies are necessary to advance its application in livestock production.

Objective: This study evaluated the effects of dietary vitamin D3 (VD3) supplementation on growth performance, blood vitamin D, and antioxidant status in weaning pigs.

Methods: Forty newly weaned piglets (6.02±1.17 kg) were assigned to two treatments with five replicates over a 28-d period. Treatments were 1) NRC-VD3: NRC recommended levels (220 IU/kg in Phase 1 [d 0-14 postweaning] and 200 IU/kg in Phase 2 [d 14-28 postweaning]), and 2) High-VD3: a high level of VD3 (2,000 IU/kg in Phase 1 and 2). Body weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and gain-to-feed ratio were measured weekly. Blood samples were collected at d 14 and 28 postweaning for the analyses of plasma 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OHD3), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Pearson correlation coefficients between plasma 25-OHD3 and SOD, MDA, or T-AOC were determined.

Results: Growth performance did not differ in overall nursery period although feed intake was lower in the High-VD3 group than the NRC-VD3 group in d 14-28 postweaning (p<0.05). Pigs fed High-VD3 diets showed greater plasma 25-OHD3OHD3 at d 14 and 28 postweaning (p<0.05), tended to have reduced plasma MDA (p = 0.06), and increased plasma SOD activity (p = 0.10) at d 14 postweaning compared with those fed NRC-VD3 diets with no effect in plasma T-AOC. At d 14 postweaning, plasma 25-OHD3 was positively correlated with plasma SOD activity (r = 0.532; p<0.05) and tended to be negatively correlated with plasma MDA levels (r = -0.491; p = 0.06).

Conclusion: High VD3 supplementation at 2,000 IU/kg did not enhance growth performance, while improving plasma vitamin D and antioxidant status in weaning pigs compared to NRC-level supplementation. Therefore, supplementing weaning pigs with higher-than-recommended levels of VD₃ could be beneficial to enhance their antioxidant status and overall health.

During the wintering period characterized by feed scarcity, animals activate the sympathetic nervous system (SNS)-β-adrenergic receptor (βAR)-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) signaling pathway in their bodies. This activation increases the transcriptional activity of forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) transcription factor and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4), leading to the upregulation of gluconeogenesis-limiting genes phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase). Additionally, it enhances the functions of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1), uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), and fatty acid transport protein (FATP). This promotes promote intermuscular fat oxidation and the production of gluconeogenesis precursor glycerol, thereby enhancing animal skeletal muscle gluconeogenesis to maintain animal energy homeostasis and life activities under low temperature and starvation conditions. This article describes the effects of overwintering starvation stress on the AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway and its molecular mechanism in animal skeletal muscle gluconeogenesis. The aim to provide a theoretical basis for optimizing sustainable breeding strategies and improving animal production performance in alpine regions.

Objective: The cashmere goat is renowned for the exceptional quality of cashmere fibers. The shedding of cashmere is closely related to the production processes in cashmere goats, but its molecular regulatory mechanism is not fully understood.

Methods: In this study, we collected skin tissues from both already-shed cashmere goats (AS) and non-shed cashmere goats (NS). Morphological differences were observed, and the relative expression levels of indicator genes distinguishing anagen from telogen phases of hair follicles were assessed. Whole transcriptome sequencing was employed to investigate key regulatory factors including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and different expression genes (DEGs) and followed by preliminary validation, interaction network construction and functional verification.

Results: Comparative histological analysis found that the density, depth, width, hair bulb width and activity of secondary hair follicles (SHFs) in AS individuals were significantly lower than those in NS individuals. Expression detection results of indicator genes distinguishing anagen from telogen indicated that the SHFs of NS individuals were predominantly in telogen phase, whereas those of AS individuals showed a greater tendency towards anagen phase. Transcriptome sequencing analysis identified 450 DEGs with 338 upregulated and 112 downregulated. as Additionally, 352 lncRNAs with different expression were detected, including 168 upregulated and 184 downregulated. Regulatory networks involving lncRNAs and their co-expressed DEGs were established. The lncRNA LOC108637151 and its co-expression gene, Selenoprotein P (SEPP1), were identified as key regulatory factors of cashmere shedding in goats, both exhibiting elevated expression levels in AS individuals. The overexpression of LOC108637151 in dermal papilla cells (DPCs) resulted in the increased expression of its target gene SEPP1 and promoted the proliferation of DPCs in cashmere goats.

Conclusion: This study identified key lncRNAs and genes related to cashmere shedding in goats, as well as their regulatory relationships. The results provided a basis for revealing the potential molecular mechanisms underlying cashmere shedding in goats.

Objective: This study aimed to characterize the fecal microbiome of highly productive laying hens to identify microbial signatures linked with enhanced egg production performance.

Methods: Six commercial layer farms were enrolled in the study. Farms with an average monthly egg production rate (amEPR) above 80% over six consecutive months were classified as the high-production group (D group; n = 3), while those with amEPR below 60% were designated as the low-production group (P group; n = 3). All hens were raised in open-type housing systems without a history of forced molting. From each farm, 36 fecal samples were randomly collected and subjected to full-length 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to characterize the microbiome.

Results: The D group showed significantly higher Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratios (p<0.001) and lower species richness (Menhinick index, p<0.05) compared with the P group. Multivariate analyses (Adonis, ANOSIM, and MRPP; all p<0.001) revealed distinct microbial community structures between the groups. Taxonomic profiling indicated that the D group harbored higher relative abundances of Enterococcus cecorum and Lactobacillus kitasatonis (both p<0.05). In contrast, the P group had elevated levels of Bacteroides eggerthii and Bacteroides coprosuis (p<0.001 and p<0.05, respectively). Principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis effect size further identified Enterococcus cecorum and Lactobacillus kitasatonis as biomarkers associated with superior egg production. In Hy-Line hens, Lactobacillus gallinarum and Lactobacillus salivarius were also identified as biomarkers linked to high productivity.

Conclusion: The fecal microbiome of highly productive laying hens is characterized by an enrichment of Enterococcus cecorum and lactic acid bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus kitasatonis, Lactobacillus gallinarum, and Lactobacillus salivarius. Their targeted supplementation may represent a promising probiotic strategy to improve egg production efficiency in commercial laying hens.