Marine macroalgal extracts to maintain gut homeostasis in the weaning piglet

The mammalian gastrointestinal tract is a dynamic environment, where a symbiotic relationship exists between the resident microbiota and the digestive and immune systems of the host. The development of the immune system begins in-utero and is further developed following the colonization of the GIT with microbiota during birth and postnatal life. The early establishment of this relationship is fundamental to the development and long-term maintenance of gut homeostasis. Regulatory mechanisms ensure an appropriate level of immune reactivity in the gut to accommodate the presence of beneficial and dietary microorganisms, while allowing effective immune responses to clear pathogens.

Source: Domestic Animal Endocrinology - February 29, 2016 Category: Endocrinology Authors: T. Sweeney, J.V. O’Doherty Source Type: research