Advantages of Bacillus-based probiotics in poultry production

Dietary Bacillus subtilis benefits meat quality by regulating the muscle fiber type and antioxidant capacity of broilers

The effects of dietary Bacillus subtilis (BS) on the meat quality of broilers were evaluated, with an emphasis on the regulation of muscle fiber types and antioxidant capabilities. One hundred and forty-four Arbor Acres male broilers were divided into 3 treatment groups (0, 300 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg dietary BS) and raised for 35 d. The results suggested that BS improved meat quality by improving the muscular pH, meat color, water holding capacity and shear force. Immunofluorescence staining revealed a positive impact of BS on the muscle fiber transformation in thigh muscles, and the gene/protein expression data from specific muscle fiber types confirmed this finding. BS activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), silent information regulator 1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1alpha. The postmortem analysis revealed that BS increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity while decreasing the malondialdehyde content. Additionally, BS increased the gene and protein expression of nuclear factor-like 2 (Nrf2) and activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway, including its downstream factors, such as heme oxygenase-1, catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. In conclusion, dietary BS improved meat quality by modifying muscle fiber types and enhancing the antioxidant capacity in broilers.

Inclusion of Tenebrio molitor larvae meal in the diet of barbary partridge (Alectoris barbara) improves caecal bacterial diversity and composition

In this study, we investigated the influence of the inclusion of Tenebrio molitor (TM) larvae meal in the diet on the diversity and structure of the bacterial community in the caecal content of Barbary partridges. A total of 36 partridges, selected randomly for slaughter from 54 animals, were divided equally into three treatment groups, including the control group (C) with a diet containing corn-soybean meal and two experimental groups, in which 25% (TM25) and 50% (TM50) of the soybean meal protein was replaced by the meal from TM larvae. After slaughtering, the bacterial community of the 30 caecal samples (10 samples per each experimental group) was analysed by high-throughput sequencing using the V4-V5 region of the 16 S rRNA gene. Alpha diversity showed a higher diversity richness in the TM50 group. Beta diversity showed statistical dissimilarities among the three groups. Firmicutes was the dominant phylum regardless of the diet, with the predominant families Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae. Clostridia and Faecalibacterium were decreased in both TM groups, Lachnospiraceae was suppressed in the TM50 group, but still this class, genus and family were abundantly present in all samples. Several potentially beneficial genera, such as Bacillus, Ruminococcaceae UCG-009, Oscillibacter and UC1-2E3 (Lachnospiraceae) were increased in the TM50 group. The results showed a beneficial effect of the T. molitor larvae meal on the caecal microbiota of Barbary partridges, particularly in the TM50 group, which showed an increase in bacterial diversity.

Advances in Yeast Probiotic Production and Formulation for Preventative Health

The use of probiotics has been gaining popularity in terms of inclusion into human diets over recent years. Based on properties exerted by these organisms, several benefits have been elucidated and conferred to the host. Bacteria have been more commonly used in probiotic preparations compared to yeast candidates; however, yeast exhibit several beneficial properties, such as the prevention and treatment of diarrhea, the production of antimicrobial agents, the prevention of pathogen adherence to intestinal sites, the maintenance of microbial balance, the modulation of the immune system, antibiotic resistance, amongst others. Saccharomyces boulardii is by far the most studied strain; however, the potential for the use of other yeast candidates, such as Kluyveromyces lactis and Debaryomyces hansenii, amongst others, have also been evaluated in this review. Furthermore, a special focus has been made regarding the production considerations for yeast-based probiotics and their formulation into different delivery formats. When drafting this review, evidence suggests that the use of yeasts, both wild-type and genetically modified candidates, can extend beyond gut health to support skin, the respiratory system, and overall immune health. Hence, this review explores the potential of yeast probiotics as a safe, effective strategy for preventative health in humans, highlighting their mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and production considerations.

Effects of compatibility of Clostridium butyricum and Bacillus subtilis on growth performance, lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and cecal microflora of broilers during the starter phase

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effects of compatibility of Clostridium butyricum and Bacillus subtilis on growth performance, lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and cecal microflora of broilers during the starter phase.

METHODS

A total of 600 1-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into two groups with six replicates in each group. Chickens in the control group were fed a basal diet, while chickens in the experimental group were fed a diet supplemented with 2×108 colony forming units (CFU)/kg of C. butyricum and 1×109 CFU/kg of B. subtilis. The experimental period was 21 days.

RESULTS

Addition of C. butyricum and B. subtilis significantly increased (p<0.05) the body weight and liver nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-malic enzyme (NADP-ME) activity of broilers, enhanced (p<0.05) the average daily gain and average daily feed intake of broilers. However, the addition of C. butyricum and B. subtilis did not significantly affect the concentrations of triglyceride and total cholesterol in the serum, the activities of fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase in the liver, the total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase activity and malondialdehyde content in the serum and liver. Besides, microbial analysis revealed that supplementation of C. butyricum and B. subtilis increased (p<0.05) the abundance of Firmicutes such as CHKCI001 and Faecalibacterium, decreased (p<0.05) the abundance of Bacteroidota such as Bacteroides and Alistipes. Spearman correlation analysis confirmed that the above cecal microbiota were closely related to the growth performance of broilers (p<0.05). In addition, simultaneous supplementation of C. butyricum and B. subtilis significant affected (p<0.05) 33 different functional pathways such as lipid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism. This explains the phenomenon of increased growth performance and liver NADP-ME activity in the probiotics group.

CONCLUSION

The compatibility of C. butyricum and B. subtilis could improve the growth of broilers during the starter phase by changing the cecal microflora.

A multitissue transcriptomic analysis reveals a potential mechanism whereby Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 promotes broiler growth

Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 has been shown to improve broiler growth performance and immunity. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of B. laterosporus S62-9 on the immunity and lipid metabolism of broilers by means of transcriptomic analysis. A total of 160 1-day-old broilers were randomly allocated to a S62-9 group, the diet of which was supplemented with 106 CFU/g B. laterosporus S62-9 daily, and a control group, which was not. After 42 d of feeding, the broilers in the S62-9 group had higher body mass (7.2%) and feed conversion ratio (5.19%) than the control group. Supplementation with B. laterosporus S62-9 resulted in lower serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations and higher high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations. An analysis of the fatty acid composition of the broiler's thigh muscles revealed that the proportions of the unsaturated fatty acids myristoleic acid (C14:1) and arachidonic acid (C20:1) were higher for birds in the S62-9 group. Transcriptomic analysis also showed an upregulation of immunity-related genes in the S62-9 group. Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis showed that the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway was enriched in the liver, the defense response was enriched in the duodenum, and immunoglobulin-related entries were enriched in the jejunum of the S62-9 group. Furthermore, the expression of key genes involved in unsaturated fatty acid synthesis (SCD, encoding stearoyl-CoA desaturase) and fatty acid metabolism (HACD2, encoding 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydratase 2) was upregulated in the liver, and the expression of genes associated with fat biosynthesis and accumulation, such as PLIN1, encoding perilipin 1, and FABP4, encoding fatty acid binding protein 4, was upregulated in the ileum of the birds in the S62-9 group. In summary, supplementation with B. laterosporus S62-9 could improve immune defense and the fatty acid metabolism of broiler chickens, thereby enhancing their disease resistance and promoting growth and development.

Immune modulation and cecal microbiome changes in broilers fed with fenugreek seeds and Bacillus-based probiotics

Intensive broiler production systems face challenges like enteric diseases, impacting global food security. Strategies to enhance broiler immunity and gut health, particularly amidst antibiotic growth promoter restrictions, are crucial. The present study investigated the combined effects of fenugreek seeds (FS) and Bacillus-based direct-fed microbials (DFM) on immune-related gene expression in the ileum and alteration of microbial population in the cecum of broiler. The study involved 160 Ross 308 broiler chicks, which were divided into four groups consisting of 5 replicates, each containing eight birds. The chicks were grown for a period of 42 d, during which they had ad libitum access to feed and water. Dietary treatments were: Control (basal diet), FS5 (basal + 5g/kg fenugreek seeds), FS5DFM (basal + 5g/kg fenugreek seeds + 0.1g/kg Bacillus-based DFM), and DFM (basal + 0.1g/kg Bacillus-based DFM). Ileum tissue and cecal contents were collected on d 42 for gene expression and gut microbiome analysis. Ileal gene expression analysis revealed the downregulation of IL-6, IL-8L2, CASP6, PTGS2, and IRF7 in both FSs and DFMs groups compared to the control, suggesting individual immunomodulatory effects. However, avian β-defensin genes exhibited complex regulation, highlighting the need for further investigation. Cecal microbiome diversity remained stable, with subtle shifts in specific taxa influenced by FSs and DFMs. Interestingly, the combination of the FSs and DFMs uniquely impacted specific taxa, including Clostridiales vadin BB60. These findings suggest that both FSs and DFMs demonstrated potential for improving broiler immunity through inflammation reduction. The combination of FSs and DFMs offers a synergistic effect in immune modulation and specific microbial modulation, warranting further investigation with pathogen challenge models for comprehensive understanding.

The evaluation of next-generation probiotics on broiler growth performance, gut morphology, gut microbiome, nutrient digestibility, in addition to enzyme production of Bacillus spp. in vitro

Considerable research has been conducted into the efficacy of individual probiotics in broiler production, however information on the most effective combinations of synergistic Bacillus probiotic is lacking. This study investigated the impact of different Bacillus strain combinations in broiler chickens, as well as in vitro enzyme production. In experiment one, a total of 576 Ross 308 broilers at 1 d old were grown for 21 d across 6 treatments of maize-soybean diets (n = 12 pens per treatment) to compare three different strain combinations (formulation 1 [F1]: 3 strains Bacillus amyloliquefaciens; F2: Bacillus coagulans and 2 strains B. amyloliquefaciens; F3: B. coagulans, Bacillus licheniformis and 2 strains B. amyloliquefaciens; F5: Bacillus subtilis, B. licheniformis and 2 strains B. amyloliquefaciens), positive control (PC), and a negative control antibiotic treatment group (NC). In Exp. 2, a total of 360 one-day-old ROSS308 broilers were used to test five treatments (n = 9) including PC, NC, F1 and F5 (selected from Exp. 1), and F4 (Bacillus pumilis and 2 strains B. amyloliquefaciens) in a maize-soybean diet. B. amyloliquefaciens F1 demonstrated a significant improvement in feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to F2 at d 14 (1.49 vs 2.10; P = 0.038) and the body weight (BW) at d 21 (847.0 g vs 787.4 g) compared to other combinations (P = 0.027). The FCR at d 21 tended to be lower in birds fed F1 (1.46 vs 1.66) compared to the control (P = 0.068). Probiotic treatments had significantly improved nutrient digestibility compared to the PC and NC. Also, probiotic treatments supported the growth of Streptococcus, a common commensal genus and reduced the abundance of genera that correlated with low weight gain such as Akkermansia. Experiment two revealed that F4 improved FCR (P < 0.001) and BW at 28 d (P = 0.014). In vitro testing showed a high production of protease and amylase by Bacillus. Thus, the addition of Bacillus probiotics, particularly containing B. amyloliquefaciens strains and Bacillus pumilus, into the diet of broiler chickens improves production performance, nutrient digestibility, and allows the proliferation of beneficial gut microbiota.

Bacillus altitudinis 1.4 genome analysis-functional annotation of probiotic properties and immunomodulatory activity

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate quantities, provide health benefits to the host. In this study, phenotypic and genotypic methods were used to evaluate the probiotic properties of Bacillus altitudinis 1.4. The isolate was sensitive to all antimicrobials tested and presented a positive result in the hemolysis test. B. altitudinis 1.4 spores were more resistant than vegetative cells, when evaluated in simulation of cell viability in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as adhesion to the intestinal mucosa. The isolate was capable of self-aggregation and coaggregation with pathogens such as Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Salmonella Enteritidis ATCC 13076. Genomic analysis revealed the presence of genes with probiotic characteristics. From this study it was possible to evaluate the gene expression of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines for different treatments. Viable vegetative cells of B. altitudinis 1.4 increased the transcription of pro-inflammatory factors, in addition to also increasing the transcription of IL-10, indicating a tendency to stimulate a pro-inflammatory profile. Given the results presented, B. altitudinis 1.4 showed potential to be applied in the incorporation of this microorganism into animal feed, since the spores could tolerate the feed handling and pelletization processes.

Laying hen responses to multi-strain Bacillus-based probiotic supplementation from 25 to 37 weeks of age

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Bacillus-based probiotics supplemented at two different levels to modulate the productive performance, egg quality, tibia traits, and specific cecal bacteria counts of Hy-Line Brown layers from 25 to 37 weeks of age.

METHODS

A total of 216 twenty-five-week-old hens were randomly distributed into 3 experimental diets with 12 replicates of 6 birds per cage. Diets included basal diet supplemented with 0 (CON), 3×108 (PRO1), or 3×109 (PRO2) colony-forming unit (CFU) of the test probiotic containing Bacillus subtilis PB6, Bacillus subtilis FXA, and Bacillus licheniformis G3 per kilogram of feed.

RESULTS

Improved egg weights and mass at 29 weeks; and feed intake at 31 weeks (p<0.10) were noticed with the probiotic-supplemented PRO1 and PRO2 diets. Considering egg quality, the shell thickness, Haugh units, and yolk color were improved; but yolk cholesterol was lowered (p<0.05) with PRO1 and PRO2 diets at 29 weeks. At both 33 and 37 weeks, the egg-breaking strength, shell color and thickness, albumen height, Haugh units, and yolk color were improved; but yolk cholesterol was similarly lowered (p<0.05) with the PRO1 and PRO2 diets. Improved tibia Ca, ash, weights, and density; and raised cecal counts of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli (p<0.05) were noticed with PRO1 and PRO2 diets. Improved tibia P but reduced Clostridia counts (p<0.10) were also observed with the PRO1 and PRO2 diets.

CONCLUSION

Probiotic supplementation of Bacillus subtilis PB6, Bacillus subtilis FXA, and Bacillus licheniformis G3 at 3×108 CFU/kg of feed is adequate to significantly improve egg quality, lower yolk cholesterol, enhance several tibia traits, and raise the populations of beneficial cecal bacteria. Modest improvements in several productive parameters and tibia P but reduced Clostridia were also observed; and could warrant further investigation of probiotic effects beyond the current test period.

Metabolic and Morphological Aspects of Adaptation of Alkaliphilic Bacillus aequororis 5-DB and Alkali-Tolerant Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 to Changes in pH and Mineralization

The goal of the study is to evaluate metabolic and morphological changes of the facultative alkaliphile Bacillus aequororis 5-DB and the weakly alkali-resistant B. subtilis ATCC 6633 in a wide pH range and at different NaCl concentrations. The alkaliphile B. aequororis 5-DB is shown to have a broader general resistance to adverse factors (wide pH range, 50 g/L NaCl) than a weakly alkali-tolerant strain of the same genus. This alkaliphile is also shown to have a significantly greater resistance not only to high pH but also to low pH in comparison with B. subtilis ATCC 6633. The resistance of B. aequororis 5-DB to low pH was expressed in higher metabolic activity, maintenance of ΔpH, and no significant cell damage. The selected set of methods (reduction of resazurin to resorufin by cell dehydrogenases, bioluminescent method for determining ATP, AFM, and measurement of intracellular pH) allows us to adequately assess the ability of microbial cells to withstand harsh environmental factors. Nonspecific resistance of B. aequororis 5-DB was proven using a complex of selected methods. Tolerance to a wide range of pH and high salt concentrations may be useful for biotechnological applications of the strain.

The Optimal Supplementation of Fermented Product Produced by Bacillus subtilis Strain LYS1 with High Surfactin Yield for Improving Growth Performance, Intestinal Villi Morphology, and Tibial Bone Strength in Broilers

This study aimed to investigate the physiochemical characterizations of the fermented product (FP) produced by the high-yield surfactin strain Bacillus subtilis LYS1 (LYS1), as well as its effects on growth performance, carcass traits, intestinal morphology, tibial bone characteristics, and clinical blood biochemistry in broilers. Accordingly, the optimal supplementation of FP for improving growth performance, intestinal villi development, and tibial bone strength in broilers was elucidated using a broken-line quadratic (BLQ) ascending model. Three hundred and sixty 0-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks, with equal numbers of both sexes, were randomly assigned to dietary supplementation of 2.5% fish meal or 0, 1, 1.5, 2, or 2.5% FP. Each treatment had six replicates, and the experimental period was 5 wk. The LYS1 count, surfactin content, and surfactin composition of the FP were 9.1 log CFU/g, 11.23 mg/g, and C12 to C18, respectively. The FP-supplemented groups improved feed intake, weight gain (WG), and production efficiency factor at 0 to 5 weeks old (p < 0.05) compared with the 0% group. The villus height/crypt depth (V/C) in the jejunum and ileum of the FP-supplemented groups was higher than in the 0% group (p < 0.05). The tibiotarsal index, Ca, and P in the tibia showed a linear effect with increased FP supplementation (p < 0.05). Moreover, the tibiotarsus weight/length index (TWLI) showed a quadratic effect with increased FP supplementation (p < 0.05). The optimal supplementation of FP for WG, V/C in the jejunum and ileum, and TWLI was 1.8, 1.9, and 1.6%, respectively. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 1 to 2.5% LYS1 FP in broilers can improve their growth performance and the development of intestinal villi. Moreover, 1.9% is the optimal supplementation of LYS1 FP in the diet, based on the fitting results obtained with the BLQ model.

Probiotic Bacillus as fermentation agents: Status, potential insights, and future perspectives

Probiotic Bacillus strains can solve the problems of single flavor and long fermentation time of fermented products caused by the lack of certain functional genes and insufficient metabolism ability of fermenter strains (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium) at the present stage. There is a lack of systematic evaluation and review of probiotic Bacillus as food fermentation agents. In this paper, it is observed that probiotic Bacillus strains are involved to varying degrees in liquid-state, semi-solid state, and solid-state fermentation and are widely present in solid-state fermented foods. Probiotic Bacillus strains not only produce abundant proteases and lipases, but also effective antifungal lipopeptides and extracellular polymers, thus enhancing the flavor, nutritional value and safety of fermented foods. Bacillus with probiotic qualities is an underutilized group of probiotic food fermentation agents, which give a potential for the development of fermentation technology in the food business and the integration of ancient traditional fermentation techniques.

Multi-omic analysis reveals that Bacillus licheniformis enhances pekin ducks growth performance via lipid metabolism regulation

Introduction: Bacillus licheniformis (B.licheniformis) was widely used in poultry feeds. However, it is still unclear about how B.licheniformis regulates the growth and development of Pekin ducks. Methods: The experiment was designed to clarify the effect and molecular mechanism of B. licheniformis on the lipid metabolism and developmental growth of Pekin ducks through multiomics analysis, including transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. Results: The results showed that compared with the control group, the addition of 400 mg/kg B. licheniformis could significantly increase the body weight of Pekin ducks and the content of triglyceride (p < 0.05), at the same time, the addition of B. licheniformis could affect the lipid metabolism of liver in Pekin ducks, and the addition of 400 mg/kg B. licheniformis could significantly increase the content of lipoprotein lipase in liver of Pekin ducks. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the addition of B. licheniformis primarily impacted fatty acid and glutathione, amino acid metabolism, fatty acid degradation, as well as biosynthesis and elongation of unsaturated fatty acids. Metabolomic analysis indicated that B. licheniformis primarily affected the regulation of glycerol phospholipids, fatty acids, and glycerol metabolites. Multiomics analysis demonstrated that the addition of B. licheniformis to the diet of Pekin ducks enhanced the regulation of enzymes involved in fat synthesis via the PPAR signaling pathway, actively participating in fat synthesis and fatty acid transport. Discussion: We found that B. licheniformis effectively influences fat content and lipid metabolism by modulating lipid metabolism-associated enzymes in the liver. Ultimately, this study contributes to our understanding of how B. licheniformis can improve the growth performance of Pekin ducks, particularly in terms of fat deposition, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for its practical application. Conclusion: B. licheniformis can increase the regulation of enzymes related to fat synthesis through PPAR signal pathway, and actively participate in liver fat synthesis and fatty acid transport, thus changing the lipid metabolism of Pekin ducks, mainly in the regulation of glycerol phospholipids, fatty acids and glycerol lipid metabolites.

A review on the alternatives to antibiotics and the treatment of antibiotic pollution: Current development and future prospects

Antibiotics, widely used in the fields of medicine, animal husbandry, aquaculture, and agriculture, pose a serious threat to the ecological environment and human health. To prevent antibiotic pollution, efforts have been made in recent years to explore alternative options for antibiotics in animal feed, but the effectiveness of these alternatives in replacing antibiotics is not thoroughly understood due to the variation from case to case. Furthermore, a systematic summary of the specific applications and limitations of antibiotic removal techniques in the environment is crucial for developing effective strategies to address antibiotic contamination. This comprehensive review summarized the current development and potential issues on different types of antibiotic substitutes, such as enzyme preparations, probiotics, and plant extracts. Meanwhile, the existing technologies for antibiotic residue removal were discussed under the scope of application and limitation. The present work aims to highlight the strategy of controlling antibiotics from the source and provide valuable insights for green and efficient antibiotic treatment.

The effects of Bacillus subtilis on the immunity, mucosal tissue morphology, immune-related gene transcriptions, and intestinal microbiota in flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) with two feeding methods: Continuous versus discontinuous feeding

Probiotics as dietary additives can improve weight gain, feed efficiency, and disease resistance in cultured fish. In this research, we evaluated and compared the effects of Bacillus subtilis on immunity, mucosal tissue morphology, immune-related gene transcriptions, and intestinal microbiota in flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) by a 30-day feeding experiment based on a continuous feeding schedule (E1) and a discontinuous feeding schedule (E2). As a result, the use of B. subtilis exerted the best positive effects on survival rate, enzyme activity, mucosal tissue morphology, immune-related gene transcriptions, and intestinal microbiota in flounders. Alkaline phosphatase (AKP), lysozyme (LZM), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the liver of E2 were higher than those of E1 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the villi length in the intestinal tract and the fold length in the stomach of E2 were also higher than in E1 (P < 0.05). The il-1 expression levels in the spleen were significantly increased in E2 (P < 0.05) compared to E1. We performed 16 S rRNA sequencing analysis to find that Bacillus in E1 (1.06%) and E2 (1.01%) had higher relative abundances than in E0 (0.053%) at the end of the experiments, indicating that short-term application of B. subtilis with the continuous or discontinuous feeding method can allow both the adaptation of the ecosystem to the presence of probiotics by the establishment of new species in the gut microbiota and the ability these new probiotic species to perform corresponding functions. No significant differences in the ability of probiotic establishment were observed between E1 and E2. Our findings provided a unique perspective to explore the mechanism of immune enhancement with probiotics and to screen the optimal administration strategy in aquaculture application for probiotic use. Together, these results point to some level of enhancement in immune status by continuous and discontinuous feeding after a short-term feeding period, which could be used as a prophylactic strategy for flounder health management.

Characterization of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PM415 as a potential bio-preserving probiotic

Animal feed is vulnerable to fungal infections, and the use of bio-preserving probiotics has received increasing attention. In contrast to Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria spp., fewer Bacillus spp. have been recognized as antifungal probiotics. Therefore, our objective was to screen antifungal strains and provide more Bacillus candidates to bridge this gap. Here, we screened 56 bacterial strains for cyclic lipopeptide genes and conducted an antifungal assay with Aspergillus niger as a representative fungus. We found that a Bacillus strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PM415, isolated from pigeon manure, exhibited the highest fungal inhibition activity as demonstrated by the confrontation assay and morphological observation under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Preliminary safety assessment and probiotic characterization revealed its non-pathogenic feature and stress tolerance capability. Whole genome sequencing of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PM415 revealed a genome size of 4.16 Mbp and 84 housekeeping genes thereof were used for phylogenetic analysis showing that it is most closely related to Bacillus amyloliquefaciens LFB112. The in silico analysis further supported its non-pathogenic feature at the genomic level and revealed potential biosynthetic gene clusters responsible for its antifungal property. RNA-seq analysis revealed genome-wide changes in transportation, amino acid metabolism, non-ribosomal peptides (NRPs) biosynthesis and glycan degradation during fungal antagonism. Our results suggest that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PM415 is a safe and effective probiotic strain that can prevent fungal growth in animal feeds.

Bacillus paralicheniformis 809 and Bacillus subtilis 810 support in vitro intestinal integrity under hydrogen peroxide and deoxynivalenol challenges

We designed and conducted two in vitro experiments to evaluate the effects of two Bacillus spp. probiotics on gut barrier integrity using the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) assay under two different challenge models. In Exp. 1, intestinal epithelial cells received or not (CON) B. paralicheniformis 809 (BLI) or B. subtilis 810 (BSU) at a rate of 1 × 108 colony forming units (CFU)/transwell. Two hours after treatment application (CON, BLI, or BSU), 5 mM of the reactive oxygen species hydrogen peroxide, mimicking mucosal oxidative stress, was added alone (HYP) or with each of the Bacillus spp. (HYP + BLI or HYP + BSU). In Exp. 2, cells were assigned to the same treatments as in Exp. 1 (CON, BLI, and BSU), or mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON), which was added alone or in combination with BLI or BSU, resulting in another two treatments (DON + BLI and DON + BSU). Transepithelial electrical resistance was measured for 14 h postchallenge. In Exp. 1, a treatment × hour interaction was observed for TEER (P < 0.0001). Adding BLI and BSU resulted in greater TEER values vs. CON for most of the experimental period (P < 0.02), whereas HYP reduced mean TEER and area under the curve (AUC), while increasing the amount of sugar that translocated through the monolayer cells (P < 0.001). A treatment × hour interaction was also observed in Exp. 2 (P < 0.0001), as DON led to an immediate and acute drop in TEER that lasted until the end of the experimental period (P < 0.0001). Both BLI and BSU alleviated the DON-induced damaging effects on the integrity of intestinal epithelial cells, whereas both Bacillus spp. alleviated the damage caused by DON alone and the proportion of sugar that translocated through the monolayer cells was not different between CON and DON + BLI (P = 0.14) and DON + BLI and DON + BSU (P = 0.62). In summary, both Bacillus spp. strains (B. paralicheniformis 809 and B. subtilis 810) were able to counteract the damaging effects of the challenge agents, hydrogen peroxide and deoxynivalenol, on gut barrier integrity.

Dietary eubiotics of microbial muramidase and glycan improve intestinal villi, ileum microbiota composition and production trait of broiler

BACKGROUND

Optimal gut health is important to maximize growth performance and feed efficiency in broiler chickens. A total of 1,365 one-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chickens were randomly divided into 5 treatments groups with 21 replicates, 13 birds per replicate. The present research investigated effects of microbial muramidase or a precision glycan alone or in combination on growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility, total blood carotenoid content, intestinal villus length, meat quality and gut microbiota in broiler chickens. Treatments included: NC: negative control (basal diet group); PC: positive control (basal diet + 0.02% probiotics); MR: basal diet + 0.035% microbial muramidase; PG: basal diet + 0.1% precision glycan; and MRPG: basal diet + 0.025% MR + 0.1% PG, respectively.

RESULTS

MRPG group increased the body weight gain and feed intake (P < 0.05) compared with NC group. Moreover, it significantly increased total serum carotenoid (P < 0.05) and MRPG altered the microbial diversity in ileum contents. The MRPG treatment group increased the abundance of the phylum Firmicutes, and family Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Oscillospiraceae, Lactobacillaceae, Peptostreptococcaceae and decreased the abundance of the phylum Campilobacterota, Bacteroidota and family Bacteroidaceae. Compared with the NC group, the chickens fed MRPG showed significantly increased in duodenum villus length at end the trial.

CONCLUSION

In this study, overall results showed that the synergetic effects of MR and PG showed enhancing growth performance, total serum carotenoid level and altering gut microbiota composition of broilers. The current research indicates that co-supplementation of MR and PG in broiler diets enhances intestinal health, consequently leading to an increased broiler production.

A comprehensive review on the utilization of probiotics in aquaculture towards sustainable shrimp farming

Probiotics in shrimp aquaculture have gained considerable attention as a potential solution to enhance production efficiency, disease management, and overall sustainability. Probiotics, beneficial microorganisms, have shown promising effects when administered to shrimp as dietary supplements or water additives. Their inclusion has been linked to improved gut health, nutrient absorption, and disease resistance in shrimp. Probiotics also play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced microbial community within the shrimp pond environment, enhancing water quality and reducing pathogen prevalence. This article briefly summarizes the many ways that probiotics are used in shrimp farming and the advantages that come with them. Despite the promising results, challenges such as strain selection, dosage optimization, and environmental conditions are carefully addressed for successful probiotic integration in shrimp aquaculture. The potential of probiotics as a sustainable and ecologically friendly method of promoting shrimp development and health while advancing environmentally friendly shrimp farming techniques is highlighted in this analysis. Further research is required to fully exploit probiotics' benefits and develop practical guidelines for their effective implementation in shrimp aquaculture.

Probiotic cocktails accelerate baicalin metabolism in the ileum to modulate intestinal health in broiler chickens

BACKGROUND

Baicalin and probiotic cocktails are promising feed additives with broad application prospects. While probiotic cocktails are known to enhance intestinal health, the potential synergistic impact of combining baicalin with probiotic cocktails on the gut health of broiler chickens remains largely unexplored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the influence of the combined administration of baicalin and probiotic cocktails on the composition of ileal and cecal microbiota in broiler chickens to elucidate the underlying mechanisms responsible for the health-promoting effects.

RESULTS

A total of 320 1-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers were divided into 4 groups, each with 8 replicates of 10 chicks per replicate. Over a period of 42 d, the birds were fed a basal diet or the same diet supplemented with 37.5 g/t baicalin (BC), 1,000 g/t probiotic cocktails (PC), or a combination of both BC (37.5 g/t) and PC (1,000 g/t). The results demonstrated that BC + PC exhibited positive synergistic effects, enhancing intestinal morphology, immune function, and barrier function. This was evidenced by increased VH/CD ratio, sIgA levels, and upregulated expression of occludin and claudin-1 (P < 0.05). 16S rRNA analysis indicated that PC potentiated the effects of BC, particularly in the ileum, where BC + PC significantly increased the α-diversity of the ileal microbiota, altered its β-diversity, and increased the relative abundance of Flavonifractor (P < 0.05), a flavonoid-metabolizing bacterium. Furthermore, Flavonifractor positively correlated with chicken ileum crypt depth (P < 0.05). While BC + PC had a limited effect on cecal microbiota structure, the PC group had a very similar microbial composition to BC + PC, suggesting that the effect of PC at the distal end of the gut overshadowed those of BC.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the synergistic enhancement of gut health regulation in broiler chickens by combining baicalin and probiotic cocktails. Probiotic cocktails enhanced the effects of baicalin and accelerated its metabolism in the ileum, thereby influencing the ileal microbiota structure. This study elucidates the interaction mechanism between probiotic cocktails and plant extract additives within the host microbiota. These findings provide compelling evidence for the future development of feed additive combinations.

Improving quality of poultry and its meat products with probiotics, prebiotics, and phytoextracts

Remarkable changes have occurred in poultry farming and meat processing in recent years, driven by advancements in breeding technology, feed processing technology, farming conditions, and management practices. The incorporation of probiotics, prebiotics, and phytoextracts has made significant contributions to the development of poultry meat products that promote both health and functionality throughout the growth phase and during meat processing. Poultry fed with these substances improve meat quality, while incorporating probiotics, prebiotics, and phytoextracts in poultry processing, as additives or supplements, inhibits pathogens and offers health benefits to consumers. However, it is vital to assess the safety of functional fermented meat products containing these compounds and their potential effects on consumer health. Currently, there's still uncertainty in these aspects. Additionally, research on utilizing next-generation probiotic strains and synergistic combinations of probiotics and prebiotics in poultry meat products is in its early stages. Therefore, further investigation is required to gain a comprehensive understanding of the beneficial effects and safety considerations of these substances in poultry meat products in the future. This review offered a comprehensive overview of the applications of probiotics and prebiotics in poultry farming, focusing on their effects on nutrient utilization, growth efficiency, and gut health. Furthermore, potential of probiotics, prebiotics, and phytoextracts in enhancing poultry meat production was explored for improved health benefits and functionality, and possible issues associated with the use of these substances were discussed. Moreover, the conclusions drawn from this review and potential future perspectives in this field are presented.

Immunostimulating Commensal Bacteria and Their Potential Use as Therapeutics

The gut microbiome is intimately intertwined with the host immune system, having effects on the systemic immune system. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome has been linked not only to gastrointestinal disorders but also conditions of the skin, lungs, and brain. Commensal bacteria can affect the immune status of the host through a stimulation of the innate immune system, training of the adaptive immune system, and competitive exclusion of pathogens. Commensal bacteria improve immune response through the production of immunomodulating compounds such as microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and secondary bile acids. The microbiome, especially when in dysbiosis, is plastic and can be manipulated through the introduction of beneficial bacteria or the adjustment of nutrients to stimulate the expansion of beneficial taxa. The complex nature of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) ecosystem complicates the use of these methods, as similar treatments have various results in individuals with different residential microbiomes and differential health statuses. A more complete understanding of the interaction between commensal species, host genetics, and the host immune system is needed for effective microbiome interventions to be developed and implemented in a clinical setting.

Efficacy of Bacillus subtilis to replace in-feed antibiotics of broiler chickens under necrotic enteritis-challenged experiments: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Necrotic enteritis (NE) and coccidiosis are among the most prevalent infectious diseases in broiler chickens, contributing to large profitability losses. Bacillus subtilis is a promising direct-fed probiotic to counter various pathogens infection in broiler chickens. Here, we performed a meta-analysis to investigate the effects of B. subtilis on broiler chickens performance. A total of 28 studies were selected according to a PRISMA checklist. Random-effect model and mixed-effect model of meta-analysis were fitted to estimate the overall effects of B. subtilis (BS) treatment compared to either the control group (CON) or NE-infected group (NEinf) as a baseline. Hedges' g effect size and its variance were used as estimators of standardized mean difference (SMD) calculation where the results were presented at a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of the SMD. Overall, NEinf broiler chickens depressed (P < 0.01) body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), and feed intake, and elevated (P < 0.01) feed conversion ratio (FCR). Treatment with BS improved ADG and final BW of NEinf with no difference (P = 0.15) between BS and antibiotics (AB), indicating that they had comparable efficacy to treat NE in broiler chickens. BS supplemented to uninfected CON (BSS) improved (P < 0.01) final BW, ADG, and FCR. Compared to CON, BS, and AB failed to recover the FCR but these treatments decreased (P < 0.01) FCR when compared to the NEinf group with similar efficacy (P = 0.97). As expected, NEinf birds had a higher mortality rate (P < 0.01) and higher lesion score (P < 0.01) compared to CON, and treatment using AB and BS successfully decreased (P < 0.01) the mortality rate and lesion score. Compared to BS, AB was more effective to lower (P = 0.01) mortality rate, but comparable (P = 0.65) to minimize lesion score. To conclude, B. subtilis could be an effective natural additive to replace in-feed antibiotics in broiler chickens challenged with C. perfringens. However, the efficacy to reduce mortality rate was better with antibiotics treatment.

A gluten degrading probiotic Bacillus subtilis LZU-GM relieve adverse effect of gluten additive food and balances gut microbiota in mice

Gluten accumulation damages the proximal small intestine and causes celiac disease (CeD) which has not been effectively treated except by using a gluten-free diet. In this study, strain Bacillus subtilis LZU-GM was isolated from Pakistani traditional fermented sourdough and could degrade 73.7% of gluten in 24 h in vitro. Strain LZU-GM was employed for practical application to investigate gluten degradation in mice models. The results showed that strain LZU-GM was colonized in mice and the survival rate was around 0.95 % (P < 0.0001). The gluten degradation was 3-fold higher in the small intestine of the strain LZU-GM treated mice group remaining 1511.96 ng/mL of gluten peptides than the untreated mice group (6500.38 ng/mL). Immunochemical analysis showed that gluten-treated mice established positive antigliadin antibodies (AGA) in serum (IgA, IgG, and anti-TG2 antibodies) as compared to the strain LZU-GM treatment group. Furthermore, the number of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-10, and COX-2 cells decrease in the lamina propria of the strain LZU-GM treatment group (P < 0.0001). Microbial community bar plot analysis showed that Lactobacillus, Dubosiella, and Enterococcus genera were restored and stabilized in the LZU-GM treatment group while Blautia and Ruminococcus were found lower. The oral gavage of probiotic strain LZU-GM might be useful for gluten metabolism in the intestine during digestion and would be a long-term dietary treatment for CeD management.

Deconstruction of a multi-strain Bacillus-based probiotic used for poultry: an in vitro assessment of its individual components against C. perfringens

OBJECTIVE

Probiotics have been used in poultry production to improve the performance and health of chickens raised without antibiotics. The combination of different probiotic strains has been used with the hope of conferring multiple benefits to the host. However, the inclusion of several strains does not necessarily boost benefits. There is a lack of studies that compare the efficacy of multi-strain probiotics to their individual components. In this study, the effects of a Bacillus-based probiotic product mix containing B. coagulans, B. licheniformis, B. pumilus, and B. subtilis against Clostridium perfringens were tested in vitro using a co-culture method. The individual strains and different combinations of the strains used in the product were also tested against C. perfringens.

RESULTS

The probiotic product mix tested in this study did not show effects against C. perfringens (P = 0.499). When tested individually, the strain of B. subtilis was the most efficient strain to decrease C. perfringens concentrations (P ≤ 0.01), and the addition of other Bacillus species strains significantly decreased its efficacy against C. perfringens. We concluded that the probiotic mix of Bacillus strains used in this study (B. coagulans, B. licheniformis, B. pumilus and B subtilis) was not effective in decreasing C. perfringens concentrations in vitro. However, when deconstructing the probiotic, the strain of B. subtilis alone or combined with the strain of B. licheniformis were effective against C. perfringens. This suggests that the anticlostridial properties of the particular strains of Bacillus used in this study were negatively affected when combined with other Bacillus spp. strains.

South Africa's indigenous microbial diversity for industrial applications: A review of the current status and opportunities

The unique metagenomic, metaviromic libraries and indigenous micro diversity within Southern Africa have the potential for global beneficiation in academia and industry. Microorganisms that flourish at high temperatures, adverse pH conditions, and high salinity are likely to have enzyme systems that function efficiently under those conditions. These attributes afford researchers and industries alternative approaches that could replace existing chemical processes. Thus, a better understanding of African microbial/genetic diversity is crucial for the development of "greener" industries. A concerted drive to exploit the potential locked in biological resources has been previously seen with companies such as Diversa Incorporated and Verenium (Badische Anilin-und SodaFabrik-BASF) both building business models that pioneered the production of high-performance specialty enzymes for a variety of different industrial applications. The market potential and accompanying industry offerings have not been fully exploited in South Africa, nor in Africa at large. Utilization of the continent's indigenous microbial repositories could create long-lasting, sustainable growth in various production sectors, providing economic growth in resource-poor regions. By bolstering local manufacture of high-value bio-based products, scientific and engineering discoveries have the potential to generate new industries which in turn would provide employment avenues for many skilled and unskilled laborers. The positive implications of this could play a role in altering the face of business markets on the continent from costly import-driven markets to income-generating export markets. This review focuses on identifying microbially diverse areas located in South Africa while providing a profile for all associated microbial/genetically derived libraries in this country. A comprehensive list of all the relevant researchers and potential key players is presented, mapping out existing research networks for the facilitation of collaboration. The overall aim of this review is to facilitate a coordinated journey of exploration, one which will hopefully realize the value that South Africa's microbial diversity has to offer.

Differential effects of Bacillus subtilis- and Bacillus licheniformis-fermented products on growth performance, intestinal morphology, intestinal antioxidant and barrier function gene expression, cecal microbiota community, and microbial carbohydrate-active enzyme composition in broilers

This study investigated the differential effects of Bacillus subtilis-fermented products (SFPs) and Bacillus licheniformis-fermented products (LFPs) on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, intestinal gene expression, cecal microbiota community, and microbial carbohydrate-active enzyme composition of broilers. In total, 160 one-day-old unsexed Arbor Acres broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 4 treatment groups (with 8 replicates per group and 5 chicks per replicate): control (CON), enramycin (ENM), SFP, and LFP groups, which were fed a basal diet, basal diet supplemented with 10 mg/kg ENM, basal diet supplemented with 10⁸ colony-forming units (CFU) of B. subtilis spores per gram of feed, and basal diet supplemented with 10⁸ CFU of B. licheniformis spores per gram of feed, respectively. LFP treatment resulted in a higher (P < 0.01) body weight at the age of 35 d and higher average daily gain over 15 to 35 (P < 0.05) and 1 to 35 (P < 0.05) d of age than did the CON and SFP treatments. The average villus heights in the jejunum were longer (P < 0.05) in the LFP group than those in the SFP group. Moreover, the LFP group exhibited a higher jejunal barrier function gene expression (mucin 2, zonula occludens-1, and occludin) and cecal antioxidant gene expression (superoxide dismutase) than did the CON group (P < 0.05). A principal coordinate analysis of cecal microbiota and carbohydrate-active enzyme composition demonstrated distinct clustering among the groups. Lactobacillus crispatus abundance in the cecal digesta was higher (P < 0.01) in the SFP group than in the CON and LFP groups. Finally, microbial glycosyltransferase 2 gene expression in the cecal digesta was higher in the LFP group than in the CON and ENM groups. In conclusion, LFPs can improve the growth performance, increase intestinal barrier function and antioxidant gene expression, and modulate cecal microflora composition and carbohydrate-active enzyme composition of broilers. The overall effect of LFPs on growth promotion in broilers was superior to that of SFPs.

Dietary Effect of Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 on Chicken Meat Quality, Amino Acid Profile, and Volatile Compounds

Probiotics are being used in diets to improve the quality of chicken meat. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 microbial agent on the meat quality, amino acids, and volatile compounds of chicken. The experiment was carried out with 160 1-day-old Arbor Acres male broiler chickens, rearing for 42 d. The chickens were randomly divided into two groups of 8 replicates each, with 10 chickens in each group. No supplement was added to the basal diet in the control group and Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 microbial agent was added to the diet of the experimental group. At the end of the experiment, the meat quality, meat chemical composition, amino acid composition, and volatile compounds of chicken were determined. The results showed that pH (p < 0.05), pressing loss (p < 0.05), cooking loss (p < 0.05), and shear force (p < 0.01) were notably decreased, the percentage of breast meat (p < 0.01), protein content (p < 0.05) were visibly increased, and remarkable changes were observed in the amino acid composition (change in seven amino acids) and volatile compounds profile (an increase of about 20-fold in the contents of 1-octen-3-ol and hexanal). In summary, it was found that Brevibacillus laterosporus S62-9 microbial agent can be used as a novel and effective feed supplement to improve the nutritional quality and flavor characteristics of broilers.

Effect of Spore-Forming Probiotics on the Poultry Production: A Review

Due to the bad aspects associated with the use of antibiotics, the pressure on poultry production prompted the efforts to find out suitable growth-promoting and disease-preventing alternatives. Although many cost-effective alternatives have been developed, currently, one of the most auspicious alternatives for poultry feed is spore-forming probiotics, which can exert more beneficial effects as compared to normal probiotics, because of their ability to withstand the harsh external and internal conditions which result in increased viability. Many studies have already used spore-forming probiotics to improve different parameters of poultry production. Our laboratory has recently isolated a spore-forming bacterial strain, which has the potential to be used as a probiotic. So, to provide a detailed understanding, the current review aimed to collect valuable references to describe the mechanism of action of spore-forming probiotics and their effect on all the key aspects of poultry production.

Novel strategies to improve chicken performance and welfare by unveiling host-microbiota interactions through hologenomics

Fast optimisation of farming practices is essential to meet environmental sustainability challenges. Hologenomics, the joint study of the genomic features of animals and the microbial communities associated with them, opens new avenues to obtain in-depth knowledge on how host-microbiota interactions affect animal performance and welfare, and in doing so, improve the quality and sustainability of animal production. Here, we introduce the animal trials conducted with broiler chickens in the H2020 project HoloFood, and our strategy to implement hologenomic analyses in light of the initial results, which despite yielding negligible effects of tested feed additives, provide relevant information to understand how host genomic features, microbiota development dynamics and host-microbiota interactions shape animal welfare and performance. We report the most relevant results, propose hypotheses to explain the observed patterns, and outline how these questions will be addressed through the generation and analysis of animal-microbiota multi-omic data during the HoloFood project.

Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Bacillus subtilis on Growth Performance, Organ Weight, Digestive Enzyme Activities, and Serum Biochemical Indices in Broiler

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of supplementing Bacillus subtilis and an antibiotic (Zinc bacitracin) in the diet of broilers on growth performance, organ weight, blood metabolites, and digestive enzymes of broiler chickens. A total of 600 1-d Arbor Acres broilers were randomly allotted to five treatments. Each treatment consisted of six replicates with four pens, and each pen had five birds. The chicks were fed (1) the basal diet (control), (2) the basal diet with 500 mg/kg Zinc bacitracin (APZ), (3) the basal diet with B. subtilis at 1 × 108 CFU/g (B.Sut-1), (4) the basal diet with B. subtilis at 3 × 108 CFU/g (B.Sut-3), and (5) the basal diet with B. subtilis at 5 × 108 CFU/g (B.Sut-5). The experiment lasted for 42 days. In this study, the supplementation of diets with B. subtilis (B.Sut-3 and B.Sut-5 groups) increased body weight gain from 1 to 21 days compared with control (p < 0.05). Additionally, the B.Sut-3 group had a significantly heavier bursa of Fabricius than control at 21 days (p < 0.05). Serum total protein, albumin, and high-density lipoprotein concentrations were increased in B.Sut-5 and APZ groups (p < 0.05) over the whole period. Serum low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, and total cholesterol concentrations were decreased in B.Sut-5 and APZ groups at 21 and 42 days (p < 0.05). Chicks in the B.Sut-5 and APZ groups had higher serum lipase, pepsin, and amylase activities (p < 0.05) at 21 and 42 days. From the results obtained from the study, it can be concluded that Bacillus subtilis ATCC19659 at 5 × 108 CFU/g could be applied as an alternative to antibiotics in poultry diets.

Effect of Bacillus species–fermented products and essential oils on growth performance, gut morphology, cecal short-chain fatty acid levels, and microbiota community in broilers

In this study, the effects of Bacillus species–fermented products (synbiotics [SYNs]) and essential oils (EOs) on the growth performance, gut morphology, cecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels, and microbiota of broilers were investigated. A total of 180 one-day-old unsexed broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to 5 dietary treatments as follows: basal diet (control group), basal diet plus enramycin (10 mg/kg; A group), basal diet plus SYNs (3 × 10¹¹ CFU spore/kg of feed; SYN group), basal diet plus EOs (100 mg/kg; EO group), and basal diet plus SYNs and EOs (SYN + EO group), with 6 replicate cages per treatment group and 6 birds per cage. The SYN+EO treatment resulted in a higher (P = 0.003) average daily gain at 1 to 14 d of age than did the control and EO treatments. SYNs had a significant effect on the average daily gain at 1 to 14 d (P < 0.001) and 1 to 35 d (P = 0.045) of age. EOs had a significant effect on the villus height of the duodenum (P = 0.015) and jejunum (P = 0.027). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and mucin 2 (MUC2) mRNA expression in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum in the SYN + EO group was higher (P < 0.001) than that in any of the other groups. The SYN+EO treatment resulted in higher (P < 0.001) 2-methylbutyric acid and 3-methylbutyric acid levels in the cecal digesta of the broilers than did the control treatment. Cecal species evenness in the SYN + EO group was higher (P < 0.001) than that in the control group. The abundance of the phylum Firmicutes in the cecal digesta of the broilers was higher (P < 0.001) in the SYN+EO group than in the control group. SYNs had a significant effect (P < 0.001) on the abundance of the genus Lactobacillus in the cecal digesta of the broilers. The abundance of the genus Lactobacillus was positively associated with 2-methylbutyric acid and 3-methylbutyric acid levels. The 2-methylbutyric acid and 3-methylbutyric acid levels were positively correlated with the villus height of the duodenum and ileum. These results suggest that simultaneous supplementation with SYNs and EOs can increase the average daily gain, improve gut health–associated gene expression, increase SCFA levels, and modulate the gut microbiota composition of broilers.

Bacillus Probiotics as Alternatives to In-feed Antibiotics and Its Influence on Growth, Serum Chemistry, Antioxidant Status, Intestinal Histomorphology, and Lesion Scores in Disease-Challenged Broiler Chickens

In commercial poultry production, chickens are reared under intensive conditions, which may allow infections to spread quickly. Antibiotics are used at sub-therapeutic doses in livestock and poultry feed to prevent diseases and improve productivity. However, restrictions on the use of antibiotics at sub-therapeutic concentrations in livestock feed due to growing concerns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), together with antibiotic residues in meat and eggs has prompted poultry researchers and feed producers to look for viable alternatives. Thus, there is increasing interest in developing natural alternatives to in-feed antibiotics to improve chicken productivity and health. Probiotics, specifically from the genus Bacillus have proven to be effective due to their spore-forming capabilities. Furthermore, their ability to withstand heat during feed processing and be stored for a long time without losing viability as well as their potential to function in the acidic medium of the chicken gut, provide them with several advantages over conventional probiotics. Several studies regarding the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Bacillus probiotics and their positive impact in chicken nutrition have been documented. Therefore, the present review shields light on the positive effect of Bacillus probiotics as alternatives to in-feed antibiotics on growth performance, serum chemistry, antioxidant status, intestinal histomorphology and lesion scores of disease-challenged broiler chickens and the mechanisms by which they exert their actions. It is concluded that Bacillus probiotics supplementation improve growth, health and productive indices of disease-challenged broiler chickens and can be a good alternative to in-feed antibiotics. However, more studies are required on the effect of Bacillus probiotics supplementation in broiler chickens to maximize productivity and achieve the ultimate goal of stopping the usage of antibiotics at sub-therapeutic doses in broiler chicken feed to enhance performance.

Application of a complex probiotic preparation based on B. subtilis and B. licheniformis in the technology of edible eggs' production

This paper highlights the study results on the usage effectiveness of the domestic complex probiotic preparation Immunoflor developed by PC KROS Farm LLC on Dekalb White egg cross chickens in the production of edible eggs. The work was carried out in the conditions of the agricultural production cooperative "Gornomariyskaya Poultry Farm" of the Republic of Mari El. During the experiment, it was found that eggs from laying hens with the highest weight and more close to the ideal shape were obtained in the 1st and 2nd experimental groups. Indicators of weight, elastic shell strain, albumen index were higher in the experimental groups relative to the control. By the end of the productive period, the yolk index was higher in the 1st and 2nd experimental groups than in the control by 0.12 and 0.7%, respectively. An increase in the albumen height and the indicator of Haugh units was noted in the eggs of the 1st and 2nd experimental groups relative to the control. It was found that egg mass loss decreased when they were stored for 14 days. Thus, the weight of eggs increased and their morphological indicators improved against the background of using a complex probiotic preparation in young poultry.

Bacillus-based probiotics affect gut barrier integrity in different ways in chickens subjected to optimal or challenge conditions

Dietary supplementation with spore-forming Bacillus-based probiotics represents an efficient means to improve gut health while maintaining good broiler performance. This study investigated the potential of two probiotic products in chickens subjected to optimal (Experiment 1) and Clostridium perfringens-challenged (Experiment 2) conditions. The treatments in Experiment 1 were as follows: (i) CON (no probiotic additive), (ii) One-strain Pro (supplemented with Bacillus licheniformis) or (iii) Multi-strain Pro (supplemented with a multistrain Bacillus-based probiotic). The treatment groups in Experiment 2 received the same diets as those in Experiment 1 but were subjected to C. perfringens challenge. Both experiments lasted 35 days. Both products marginally affected broiler performance in the optimal or challenge conditions. In Experiment 1, Multi-strain Pro upregulated the mRNA expression level of 11 out of 15 selected genes, whereas in Experiment 2, this was less evident, and One-strain Pro was more effective. The multistrain probiotic was effective in maintaining gut morphostructure indices and increasing gut wall thickness, which was particularly evident in challenged birds. Neither additive induced bacterial activity (assessed by measuring enzymatic activity and short-chain fatty acid production) in the cecum, and Multi-strain Pro maintained the cecal butyrate concentration in challenged birds as in the challenged CON treatment, in which butyrate concentration was significantly higher than in the One-strain Pro treatment. Our findings indicated that the activity of these single- and multistrain probiotic products varies depending on rearing conditions, and the effect is highly strain- and product-specific. However, the multistrain probiotic apparently had more beneficial effects than the one-strain probiotic in the maintenance of gut functional status under optimal and challenge conditions.

Bacillus subtilis-Based Probiotic Improves Skeletal Health and Immunity in Broiler Chickens Exposed to Heat Stress

Simple Summary

High ambient temperature is a major environmental stressor affecting the physiological and behavioral status of animals, increasing stress susceptibility and immunosuppression, and consequently increasing intestinal permeability (leaky gut) and related neuroinflammation. Probiotics, as well as prebiotics and synbiotics, have been used to prevent or decrease stress-associated detrimental effects on physiological and behavioral homeostasis in humans and various animals. The current data indicate that a dietary probiotic supplement, Bacillus subtilis, reduces heat stress-induced abnormal behaviors and negative effects on skeletal health in broilers through a variety of cellular responses, regulating the functioning of the microbiota–gut–brain axis and/or microbiota-modulated immunity during bone remodeling under thermoneutral and heat-stressed conditions.

Abstract

The elevation of ambient temperature beyond the thermoneutral zone leads to heat stress, which is a growing health and welfare issue for homeothermic animals aiming to maintain relatively constant reproducibility and survivability. Particularly, global warming over the past decades has resulted in more hot days with more intense, frequent, and long-lasting heat waves, resulting in a global surge in animals suffering from heat stress. Heat stress causes pathophysiological changes in animals, increasing stress sensitivity and immunosuppression, consequently leading to increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) and related neuroinflammation. Probiotics, as well as prebiotics and synbiotics, have been used to prevent or reduce stress-induced negative effects on physiological and behavioral homeostasis in humans and various animals. The current data indicate dietary supplementation with a Bacillus subtilis-based probiotic has similar functions in poultry. This review highlights the recent findings on the effects of the probiotic Bacillus subtilis on skeletal health of broiler chickens exposed to heat stress. It provides insights to aid in the development of practical strategies for improving health and performance in poultry.

Probiotics Bacillus licheniformis Improves Intestinal Health of Subclinical Necrotic Enteritis-Challenged Broilers

Necrotic enteritis infection poses a serious threat to poultry production, and there is an urgent need for searching effective antibiotic alternatives to control it with the global ban on in-feed antibiotics. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary Bacillus licheniformis replacing enramycin on the growth performance and intestinal health of subclinical necrotic enteritis (SNE)-challenged broilers. In total, 504 1-day-old Arbor Acres male chickens were selected and subsequently assigned into three treatments, including PC (basal diet + SNE challenge), PA (basal diet extra 10 mg/kg enramycin + SNE challenge), and PG (basal diet extra 3.20 × 109 and 1.60 × 109 CFU B. licheniformis per kg diet during 1-21 days and 22-42 days, respectively + SNE challenge). Results showed that B. licheniformis significantly decreased the intestinal lesion scores and down-regulated the Claudin-3 mRNA levels in jejunum of SNE-infected broilers on day 25, but increased the mucin-2 gene expression in broilers on day 42. In addition, B. licheniformis significantly up-regulated the mRNA levels of TRIF and NF-κB of SNE-challenged broilers compared with the control group on day 25 and TLR-4, TRIF compared with the control and the antibiotic group on day 42. The mRNA expression of growth factors (GLP-2 and TGF-β2) and HSPs (HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90) were up-regulated in B. licheniformis supplementary group on days 25 and 42 compared with group PC. LEfSe analysis showed that the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae_UCG_010 was enriched in the PG group; nevertheless, Clostridiales_vadinBB60 and Rnminococcaceae_NK4A214 were in PA. PICRUSt analysis found that the metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, amino acid metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism pathways were enriched, whereas energy metabolism, membrane transport, cell motility, and lipid metabolism were suppressed in B. licheniformis-supplemented groups as compared with the PC control. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of B. licheniformis alleviated the intestinal damage caused by SNE challenge that coincided with modulating intestinal microflora structure and barrier function as well as regulating intestinal mucosal immune responses.

Effect of Lactobacillus Species Probiotics on Growth Performance of Dual-Purpose Chicken

Introduction

In-feed probiotics are becoming attractive alternatives to antibiotics in the poultry industry due to the ever-growing strict prohibitions on antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) in animal production.

Methods

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of Lactobacillus paracaseis sparacasei and Lactobacillus rhamnosus on the growth performance of 120 day-olds randomly selected Sasso dual-purpose chicken. They were divided into four groups with two replicates per group and 15 chicks per replicate. The treatments were T₁ (control), T₂ (supplement diet with 4g probiotic), T₃ (supplement diet with 2g probiotic), T₄ (supplement diet with 1g probiotic). The experimental feeding trials were conducted after two weeks adaptation period.

Results

The present findings revealed that the chickens supplemented with Lactobacillus species probiotics during the first week of age have shown higher body weight than control (p < 0.05). The feed intake of week one of T₂ and T₃ were significantly higher (p< 0.05) than the T₁ (control). However, there was no significant difference (p> 0.05) in feed intake in the 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^{t h} weeks of all treatment groups. The present result showed that there was a significant body weight gain (p< 0.05) in all probiotic fed groups than the control group. The highest body weight gain was observed in chickens found in the T4 treatment group. Whereas the body weight gains significantly higher and improved the feed conversion (p<0.05) in the T₂ and T₄ than the T₁ (control). However, the feed conversion ratio was significantly influenced by probiotic inclusion in T₃ as compared to the control group.

Conclusion

Overall, the results suggest that Lactobacillus paracaseis sparacasei and Lactobacillus rhamnosus have a positive effect on the growth performance of broilers.