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Pyles M, Agbana M, Hayes S, Flythe M, Lawrence L. The Establishment of Fibrolytic Bacteria in the Foal Gastrointestinal Tract Is Related to the Occurrence of Coprophagy by Foals. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2718. [PMID: 37684982 PMCID: PMC10486901 DOI: 10.3390/ani13172718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The consumption of maternal feces (coprophagy) is commonly observed in healthy foals and is a proposed contributor to microbial colonization of the foal's gastrointestinal tract (GIT). This study investigated the role of coprophagy in the establishment of fibrolytic bacteria in the foal GIT. Nine thoroughbred mares were dosed with chromic oxide, an indigestible marker, as a method to detect the occurrence of coprophagy by their foals. Foal fecal samples were collected from 12 h to 21 d after birth to measure chromic oxide and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and to enumerate cellulolytic bacteria using culture-based techniques. Milk yield was estimated at 7 and 14 d postpartum. Coprophagy was detected as early as 3 d after birth and detected in all foals by 7 d of age. There were strong relationships between coprophagy and cellulolytic bacteria and NDF in foal feces at 7 d of age (r = 0.9703 and r = 0.7878, respectively; p < 0.05). Fecal NDF and chromic oxide concentrations were negatively related to milk yield (r = -0.8144 and r = -0.6966, respectively; p < 0.05), suggesting milk availability affected the incidence of coprophagy. Based on the relationships identified, maternal feces are an important source of fiber and live microbes for the foal, contributing to the development of the microbial community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Pyles
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA; (M.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Miranda Agbana
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA; (M.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Susan Hayes
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA; (M.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Michael Flythe
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA; (M.P.); (M.F.)
- Forage-Animal Production Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Lexington, KY 40546, USA
| | - Laurie Lawrence
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546, USA; (M.P.); (M.F.)
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Wunderlich G, Bull M, Ross T, Rose M, Chapman B. Understanding the microbial fibre degrading communities & processes in the equine gut. Anim Microbiome 2023; 5:3. [PMID: 36635784 PMCID: PMC9837927 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-022-00224-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The equine gastrointestinal tract is a self-sufficient fermentation system, housing a complex microbial consortium that acts synergistically and independently to break down complex lignocellulolytic material that enters the equine gut. Despite being strict herbivores, equids such as horses and zebras lack the diversity of enzymes needed to completely break down plant tissue, instead relying on their resident microbes to carry out fibrolysis to yield vital energy sources such as short chain fatty acids. The bulk of equine digestion occurs in the large intestine, where digesta is fermented for 36-48 h through the synergistic activities of bacteria, fungi, and methanogenic archaea. Anaerobic gut dwelling bacteria and fungi break down complex plant polysaccharides through combined mechanical and enzymatic strategies, and notably possess some of the greatest diversity and repertoire of carbohydrate active enzymes among characterized microbes. In addition to the production of enzymes, some equid-isolated anaerobic fungi and bacteria have been shown to possess cellulosomes, powerful multi-enzyme complexes that further enhance break down. The activities of both anaerobic fungi and bacteria are further facilitated by facultatively aerobic yeasts and methanogenic archaea, who maintain an optimal environment for fibrolytic organisms, ultimately leading to increased fibrolytic microbial counts and heightened enzymatic activity. The unique interactions within the equine gut as well as the novel species and powerful mechanisms employed by these microbes makes the equine gut a valuable ecosystem to study fibrolytic functions within complex communities. This review outlines the primary taxa involved in fibre break down within the equine gut and further illuminates the enzymatic strategies and metabolic pathways used by these microbes. We discuss current methods used in analysing fibrolytic functions in complex microbial communities and propose a shift towards the development of functional assays to deepen our understanding of this unique ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Wunderlich
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XTasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia ,Quantal Bioscience Pty Ltd, Castle Hill, Australia
| | - Michelle Bull
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XTasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia ,Quantal Bioscience Pty Ltd, Castle Hill, Australia
| | - Tom Ross
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XTasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Michael Rose
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XTasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Belinda Chapman
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XTasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia ,Quantal Bioscience Pty Ltd, Castle Hill, Australia
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Li Y, Liu Y, Ma Y, Ge X, Zhang X, Cai C, Yang Y, Lu C, Liang G, Guo X, Cao G, Li B, Gao P. Effects of Maternal Factors and Postpartum Environment on Early Colonization of Intestinal Microbiota in Piglets. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:815944. [PMID: 35464386 PMCID: PMC9021831 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.815944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal microbiota significantly influences the intake, storage, and utilization of body nutrients, as well as animal growth and development. The establishment of microbiota is affected by many factors, such as delivery and feeding modes, antibiotics, disease, and the surrounding environment. In this study, we selected Chinese indigenous Mashen and Jinfen White pigs as the study subjects. To explore the source and factors affecting the piglet intestinal microbiota, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed to analyze the microbial composition of the feces, saliva, vaginal secretions, and colostrum of parturient sows, feces and saliva of newborn piglets, and surrounding environment samples. The results showed that the microbiota of the saliva of sows and piglets is structurally similar to that of the environment and is dominated by the phylum Proteobacteria, including Acinetobacter, Actinomyces, and Pseudomonas. The core genus in the vaginal secretions and colostrum of sows was Pseudomonas. Among the fecal samples, the core bacterial genera in sows before and after delivery were Clostridium sensu_stricto_1 and Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, while in piglets at 1 d of age, Pseudomonas and Escherichia-Shigella were most abundant. These results indicate that microbiota in feces, colostrum, and vaginal secretions of sows more easily colonized piglet intestines through a symbiotic effect. The environmental and salivary microbiota could also affect the early colonization and succession of the intestinal microbiota of piglets to some extent. This study provides a theoretical basis for sow delivery protection and early nursing of piglets and background for the research and development of microbial agents to improve piglet intestinal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongshi Li
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Yadan Liu
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Yijia Ma
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Xusheng Ge
- Inner Mongolia Mengniu Dairy Company Limited, Helingeer Hohhot, China
| | - Xiaona Zhang
- Allwegene Technologies Incorporation, Beijing, China
| | - Chunbo Cai
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Yang Yang
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Chang Lu
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Guoming Liang
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Xiaohong Guo
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Guoqing Cao
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
| | - Bugao Li
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
- *Correspondence: Bugao Li
| | - Pengfei Gao
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, China
- Pengfei Gao
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Cohen ND, Kahn SK, Bordin AI, Gonzales GM, da Silveira BP, Bray JM, Legere RM, Ramirez-Cortez SC. Association of pneumonia with concentrations of virulent Rhodococcus equi in fecal swabs of foals before and after intrabronchial infection with virulent R. equi. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:1139-1145. [PMID: 35322902 PMCID: PMC9151490 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intragastric administration of virulent Rhodococcus equi protects foals against subsequent experimental intrabronchial (IB) infection, but it is unknown whether R. equi naturally ingested by foals contributes to their susceptibility to pneumonia. Hypothesis Fecal concentration of virulent R. equi before IB infection with R. equi is positively associated with protection from pneumonia in foals. Animals Twenty‐one university‐owned foals. Methods Samples were collected from experimental studies. Five foals were gavaged with live, virulent R. equi (LVRE) at age 2 and 4 days; the remaining 16 foals were not gavaged with LVRE (controls). Fecal swabs were collected from foals at ages 28 days, immediately before IB infection. Foals were monitored for clinical signs of pneumonia, and fecal swabs were collected approximately 2 weeks after IB infection. Swabs were tested by quantitative PCR for concentration of virulent R. equi (ie, copy numbers of the virulence‐associated protein A gene [vapA] per 100 ng fecal DNA). Results Fecal concentrations of virulent R. equi (vapA) before IB infection were significantly (P < .05) lower in control foals (25 copies/100 ng DNA [95% CI, 5 to 118 copies/100 ng DNA) that developed pneumonia (n = 8) than in healthy control foals (n = 8; 280 copies/100 ng DNA; 95% CI, 30 to 2552 copies/100 ng DNA) or those gavaged with LVRE (707 copies/100 ng DNA, 95% CI, 54 to 9207 copies/100 ng DNA). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Greater natural ingestion of LVRE might contribute to protection against pneumonia among foals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah D Cohen
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Susanne K Kahn
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Angela I Bordin
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Giana M Gonzales
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Bibiana Petri da Silveira
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Jocelyne M Bray
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Rebecca M Legere
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Sophia C Ramirez-Cortez
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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Dubost JM, Kongchack P, Deharo E, Sysay P, Her C, Vichith L, Sébastien D, Krief S. Zootherapeutic uses of animals excreta: the case of elephant dung and urine use in Sayaboury province, Laos. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2021; 17:62. [PMID: 34711254 PMCID: PMC8552211 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-021-00484-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite a widespread aversion towards faeces and urine, animal excreta are used in traditional medicine in many countries since centuries, but records are scattered and few therapeutic uses have been accurately documented while in the current context of emerging zoonoses such records may be of major interest. METHODOLOGY In this study, we investigated the therapeutic uses that mahouts in Xayaboury province, Lao PDR make of elephant urine and faeces as well as of the brood chamber that beetles (Heliocopris dominus) fashion from elephant dung. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with mahouts on elephant diet, health problems and responses to disease, andwhether they use elephant products. Data were supplemented by interviews with traditional healers. RESULTS Seven respondents reported the use of elephant urine in ethnoveterinary care for elephants and in human medicine in case of diabetes and otitis. 25 respondents reported therapeutic use of elephant faeces (EF) and elephant dung beetle brood chambers. The major indications are gastrointestinal and skin problems. Macerations or decoctions are drunk or used externally as a lotion. The mahouts attribute the therapeutic effectiveness of EFs to their content which includes the remains of many species from the elephant diet which they consider to be medicinal. DISCUSSION The indications of these uses are consistent with pharmacological and clinical studies highlighting the properties of different animals' urine and faeces and their curative potential tested in vivo. The acknowledgement by the mahouts of medicinal properties of elephant faecal bolus contrasts with the rare justifications of animal material use recorded in zootherapeutic studies, which falls within the symbolic domain. However, numerous studies highlight the preponderant role of the microbiota in physiological processes, raising the hypothesis of a curative action of EF, by rebalancing the user's microbiota. CONCLUSION The therapeutic uses of EF preparations despite their possible curative properties are a potential source of zoonotic transmission from elephants to humans. In the current context of globalisation of trade which favours the emergence of zoonoses and in relation with the issue of One Health, it becomes crucial to further document the zootherapeutic practices to prevent emerging diseases. As elephants and local related ethnoethological knowledge are threatened, documenting them is urgent to contribute to their preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Marc Dubost
- Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle-UMR 7206, Paris, France.
- UMR 152 Pharmadev, IRD, UPS, 35 chemin des maraîchers, Université Paul Sabatier, 31062, Toulouse, France.
| | | | - Eric Deharo
- UMR 152 Pharmadev, IRD, UPS, 35 chemin des maraîchers, Université Paul Sabatier, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | - Palamy Sysay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Chithdavone Her
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Lamxay Vichith
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Natural Sciences, National University of Laos, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Duffillot Sébastien
- Elephant Conservation Center, Nam Tien Reservoir, Xayabury District, Lao PDR
| | - Sabrina Krief
- Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle-UMR 7206, Paris, France
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Mitchell S, Bull M, Muscatello G, Chapman B, Coleman NV. The equine hindgut as a reservoir of mobile genetic elements and antimicrobial resistance genes. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 47:543-561. [PMID: 33899656 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.1907301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance in bacterial pathogens is a growing problem for both human and veterinary medicine. Mobile genetic elements (MGEs) such as plasmids, transposons, and integrons enable the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) among bacteria, and the overuse of antibiotics drives this process by providing the selection pressure for resistance genes to establish and persist in bacterial populations. Because bacteria, MGEs, and resistance genes can readily spread between different ecological compartments (e.g. soil, plants, animals, humans, wastewater), a "One Health" approach is needed to combat this problem. The equine hindgut is an understudied but potentially significant reservoir of ARGs and MGEs, since horses have close contact with humans, their manure is used in agriculture, they have a dense microbiome of both bacteria and fungi, and many antimicrobials used for equine treatment are also used in human medicine. Here, we collate information to date about resistance genes, plasmids, and class 1 integrons from equine-derived bacteria, we discuss why the equine hindgut deserves increased attention as a potential reservoir of ARGs, and we suggest ways to minimize the selection for ARGs in horses, in order to prevent their spread to the wider community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Mitchell
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Gary Muscatello
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Nicholas V Coleman
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Dayaram A, Seeber PA, Greenwood AD. Environmental Detection and Potential Transmission of Equine Herpesviruses. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040423. [PMID: 33916280 PMCID: PMC8066653 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Equine herpesviruses (EHV) are a major health concern for domestic and wild equids and represent one of the most economically important disease agents of horses. Most known EHVs are transmitted directly between individuals as a result of direct exposure to exudates and aerosols. However, accumulating evidence suggests that environmental transmission may play a role including air, water, and fomites. Here, we reviewed studies on environmental stability and transmission of EHVs, which may influence viral dynamics and the use of environmental samples for monitoring EHV shedding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anisha Dayaram
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany; (A.D.); (P.A.S.)
- Institute of Neurophysiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter A. Seeber
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany; (A.D.); (P.A.S.)
- Limnological Institute, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Alex D. Greenwood
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany; (A.D.); (P.A.S.)
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)30-5168255
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Bo TB, Kohl KD. Stabilization and optimization of host-microbe-environment interactions as a potential reason for the behavior of natal philopatry. Anim Microbiome 2021; 3:26. [PMID: 33785073 PMCID: PMC8011129 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-021-00087-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Many animals engage in a behavior known as natal philopatry, where after sexual maturity they return to their own birthplaces for subsequent reproduction. There are many proposed ultimate factors that may underlie the evolution of natal philopatry, such as genetic optimization, suitable living conditions, and friendly neighbors, which can improve the survival rates of offspring. However, here we propose that a key factor that has been overlooked could be the colonization of gut microbiota during early life and the effects these microorganisms have on host performance and fitness. In addition to the bacteria transmitted from the mother to offspring, microbes from the surrounding environment also account for a large proportion of the developing gut microbiome. While it was long believed that microbial species all have global distributions, we now know that there are substantial geographic differences and dispersal limitations to environmental microbes. The establishment of gut microbiota during early life has enormous impacts on animal development, including energy metabolism, training of the immune system, and cognitive development. Moreover, these microbial effects scale to influence animal performance and fitness, raising the possibility for natural selection to act on the integrated combination of gut microbial communities and host genetics (i.e. the holobiont). Therefore, in this paper, we propose a hypothesis: that optimization of host-microbe-environment interactions represents a potentially important yet overlooked reason for natal philopatry. Microbiota obtained by natal philopatry could help animals adapt to the environment and improve the survival rates of their young. We propose future directions to test these ideas, and the implications that this hypothesis has for our understanding of host-microbe interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Bei Bo
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kevin D Kohl
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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9
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Discovering the relationship between dietary nutrients and cortisol and ghrelin hormones in horses exhibiting oral stereotypic behaviors: A review. J Vet Behav 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2020.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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10
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Henry S, Sigurjónsdóttir H, Klapper A, Joubert J, Montier G, Hausberger M. Domestic Foal Weaning: Need for Re-Thinking Breeding Practices? Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020361. [PMID: 32102206 PMCID: PMC7070483 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial weaning is a standard practice known to be one of the most stressful events in a domestic foal's life. Research has mainly focused on ways to alleviate weaning stress. However, there is still a need for more detailed research on what should constitute best practices with respect to animal welfare. The aim of this review is to address this issue by examining the natural weaning process. We first provide an overview of the scientific literature on the natural temporal dynamics of the dam-offspring bond in horses: it is to be noted that the natural process of weaning is little documented, individual variations have been poorly investigated and immediate effects of weaning on the mare-foal relationship remain unexplored. To partly address these gaps, we performed a study around the weaning period on 16 mare-foal pairs kept with minimal human interference. Most foals were weaned spontaneously when 9-10 months old, with individual variations mainly due to the conception rate of mares. Natural weaning induced no stress response in either partner and was performed without clear signs of rejection by the dams either just before or after. We lastly open up the discussion on the need for rethinking weaning practices under domestic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Séverine Henry
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie Animale et Humaine)—UMR 6552, F-35000 Rennes, France; (A.K.); (J.J.); (G.M.); (M.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Hrefna Sigurjónsdóttir
- Faculty of Subject Teacher Education, School of Education, University of Iceland, Stakkahlíð, R105 Reykjavík, Iceland;
| | - Aziliz Klapper
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie Animale et Humaine)—UMR 6552, F-35000 Rennes, France; (A.K.); (J.J.); (G.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Julie Joubert
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie Animale et Humaine)—UMR 6552, F-35000 Rennes, France; (A.K.); (J.J.); (G.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Gabrielle Montier
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie Animale et Humaine)—UMR 6552, F-35000 Rennes, France; (A.K.); (J.J.); (G.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Martine Hausberger
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie Animale et Humaine)—UMR 6552, F-35000 Rennes, France; (A.K.); (J.J.); (G.M.); (M.H.)
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11
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Husso A, Jalanka J, Alipour MJ, Huhti P, Kareskoski M, Pessa-Morikawa T, Iivanainen A, Niku M. The composition of the perinatal intestinal microbiota in horse. Sci Rep 2020; 10:441. [PMID: 31949191 PMCID: PMC6965133 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57003-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The establishment of the intestinal microbiota is critical for the digestive and immune systems. We studied the early development of the rectal microbiota in horse, a hindgut fermenter, from birth until 7 days of age, by qPCR and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. To evaluate initial sources of the foal microbiota, we characterised dam fecal, vaginal and oral microbiotas. We utilised an amplicon sequence variant (ASV) pipeline to maximise resolution and reproducibility. Stringent ASV filtering based on prevalence and abundance in samples and controls purged contaminants while preserving intestinal taxa. Sampled within 20 minutes after birth, rectal meconium contained small amounts of diverse bacterial DNA, with a profile closer to mare feces than mouth. 24 hours after birth, rectum was colonised by Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, some foals dominated by single genera. At day 7, the rectal genera were still different from adult feces. The mare vaginal microbiota contributed to 24 h and 7 day microbiotas. It contained few lactobacilli, with Corynebacterium, Porphyromonas, Campylobacter and Helcococcus as the most abundant genera. In the oral mucosa, Gemella was extremely abundant. Our observations indicate that bacteria or bacterial components are present in the intestine immediately after birth, but the newborn microbiota changes rapidly.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Husso
- Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Jalanka
- Human Microbiome Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M J Alipour
- Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Huhti
- Saharan ravitalli (Sahara stud), Haapamäki, Finland
| | - M Kareskoski
- Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Pessa-Morikawa
- Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A Iivanainen
- Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - M Niku
- Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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12
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David I, Canario L, Combes S, Demars J. Intergenerational Transmission of Characters Through Genetics, Epigenetics, Microbiota, and Learning in Livestock. Front Genet 2019; 10:1058. [PMID: 31737041 PMCID: PMC6834772 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.01058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary biologists studying wild species have demonstrated that genetic and non-genetic sources of information are inherited across generations and are therefore responsible for phenotypic resemblance between relatives. Although it has been postulated that non-genetic sources of inheritance are important in natural selection, they are not taken into account for livestock selection that is based on genetic inheritance only. According to the natural selection theory, the contribution of non-genetic inheritance may be significant for the transmission of characters. If this theory is confirmed in livestock, not considering non-genetic means of transmission in selection schemes might prevent achieving maximum progress in the livestock populations being selected. The present discussion paper reviews the different mechanisms of genetic and non-genetic inheritance reported in the literature as occurring in livestock species. Non-genetic sources of inheritance comprise information transmitted via physical means, such as epigenetic and microbiota inheritance, and those transmitted via learning mechanisms: behavioral, cultural and ecological inheritance. In the first part of this paper we review the evidence that suggests that both genetic and non-genetic information contribute to inheritance in livestock (i.e. transmitted from one generation to the next and causing phenotypic differences between individuals) and discuss how the environment may influence non-genetic inherited factors. Then, in a second step, we consider methods for favoring the transmission of non-genetic inherited factors by estimating and selecting animals on their extended transmissible value and/or introducing favorable non-genetic factors via the animals’ environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid David
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
| | - Laurianne Canario
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
| | - Sylvie Combes
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
| | - Julie Demars
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
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KOBAYASHI A, TSUCHIDA S, UEDA A, YAMADA T, MURATA K, NAKAMURA H, USHIDA K. Role of coprophagy in the cecal microbiome development of an herbivorous bird Japanese rock ptarmigan. J Vet Med Sci 2019; 81:1389-1399. [PMID: 31406033 PMCID: PMC6785603 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.19-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The transgenerational maintenance of symbiotic microbes that benefit host nutrition and health is evolutionarily advantageous. In some vertebrate lineages, coprophagy is used as a strategy for effectively transmitting microbes across generations. However, this strategy has still not been studied in birds. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of maternal cecal feces consumption by Japanese rock ptarmigan (Lagopus muta japonica) chicks as a strategy for acquiring essential gut microbes. Both the duration of coprophagy behavior by the chicks and the development process of the chick cecal microbiome (n=20 one- to three-week-old chicks, from three broods) were investigated. In all three broods, coprophagy behavior was only observed from 3 to 18 days of age. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the number of bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) in 1-week-old chicks (n=651) and adults (n=609), and most of the main OTUs observed in the adults were already present in the 1-week-old chicks. These results indicate that, in this precocial bird species, coprophagy may contribute to the early establishment of cecal bacteria that are essential for food digestion and, thus, chick survival. In fact, Japanese rock ptarmigan chicks consume the same food as their hens from the time of hatching. This behavior may have applications to ex-situ conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sayaka TSUCHIDA
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University, Kyoto 606-8522, Japan
- Chubu University, Academy of Emerging Sciences, Kasugai, Aichi 487-8501, Japan
| | - Atsushi UEDA
- Department of Life Science and Technology, School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Takuji YAMADA
- Department of Life Science and Technology, School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Koichi MURATA
- Faculty of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Kanagawa 252-0800, Japan
| | - Hiroshi NAKAMURA
- General Foundation Hiroshi Nakamura International Institute for Ornithology, Nagano 380-0934, Japan
| | - Kazunari USHIDA
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University, Kyoto 606-8522, Japan
- Chubu University, Academy of Emerging Sciences, Kasugai, Aichi 487-8501, Japan
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Lindenberg F, Krych L, Kot W, Fielden J, Frøkiær H, van Galen G, Nielsen DS, Hansen AK. Development of the equine gut microbiota. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14427. [PMID: 31594971 PMCID: PMC6783416 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50563-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Shortly after birth the mammalian gut is colonized, by a transient microbiota, highly susceptible to environment and diet, that eventually stabilizes and becomes the resident gut microbiota. In a window of opportunity during the colonization, oral tolerance is established towards resident bacteria. In this study, the development of the equine gut microbiota was investigated in ten foals from parturition until post weaning. We found great differences in the core species of the gut microbiota composition between time-matched samples on Day 7 and 20 post-partum. Between day 20 and Day 50 post-partum, we saw the gut microbiota became increasingly dominated by fiber fermenting species. After Day 50, no significant changes in species abundance were observed. Gene expression analysis of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the blood revealed no significant changes before and after weaning. In summary, relative stability of the gut microbiota was reached within 50 days post-partum and, weaning did not have a major impact on the microbial composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Lindenberg
- Brogaarden Aps, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - L Krych
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - W Kot
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Aarhus University, København, Denmark
| | | | - H Frøkiær
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - G van Galen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - D S Nielsen
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A K Hansen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Achard CS, Dupouy V, Siviglia S, Arpaillange N, Cauquil L, Bousquet-Mélou A, Zemb O. Variability of the Ability of Complex Microbial Communities to Exclude Microbes Carrying Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Rabbits. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1503. [PMID: 31333614 PMCID: PMC6615258 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Reducing antibiotic use is a necessary step toward less antibiotic resistance in livestock, but many antibiotic resistance genes can persist for years, even in an antibiotic-free environment. In this study, we investigated the potential of three fecal complex microbial communities from antibiotic-naive does to drive the microbiota of kits from antibiotic-exposed dams and outcompete bacteria-carrying antibiotic-resistant genes. The fecal complex microbial communities were either orally delivered or simply added as fresh fecal pellets in four to five nests that were kept clean from maternal feces. Additionally, four nests were cleaned for the maternal feces and five nests were handled according to the common farm practice (i.e., cleaning once a week) as controls. At weaning, we measured the relative abundance of 26 antibiotic resistance genes, the proportion of Enterobacteriaceae resistant to tetracycline and sulfonamide antibiotics, and the taxonomic composition of the microbiota by sequencing the 16S rRNA genes of one kit per nest. Changing the surrounding microbes of the kits can hinder the transmission of antibiotic resistance genes from one generation to the next, but the three communities widely differed in their ability to orient gut microbes and in their impact on antibiotic resistance genes. The most efficient delivery of the microbial community reduced the proportion of resistant Enterobacteria from 93 to 9%, decreased the relative abundance of eight antibiotic resistance genes, and changed the gut microbes of the kits at weaning. The least efficient did not reduce any ARG or modify the bacterial community. In addition, adding fecal pellets was more efficient than the oral inoculation of the anaerobic suspension derived from these fecal pellets. However, we were unable to predict the outcome of the exclusion from the data of the donor does (species composition and abundance of antibiotic resistance genes). In conclusion, we revealed major differences between microbial communities regarding their ability to exclude antibiotic resistance genes, but more work is needed to understand the components leading to the successful exclusion of antibiotic resistance genes from the gut. As a consequence, studies about the impact of competitive exclusion should use several microbial communities in order to draw general conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Suzanne Siviglia
- GenPhySE, INRA, ENVT, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,InTheRes, INRA, ENVT, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Laurent Cauquil
- GenPhySE, INRA, ENVT, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Olivier Zemb
- GenPhySE, INRA, ENVT, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Aviles-Rosa EO, Rakhshandeh A, McGlone JJ. Preliminary Study: Depriving Piglets of Maternal Feces for the First Seven Days Post-Partum Changes Piglet Physiology and Performance before and after Weaning. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9050268. [PMID: 31126021 PMCID: PMC6562806 DOI: 10.3390/ani9050268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Coprophagy is the behavior of eating feces. This behavior has been reported in many animals, including pigs. We aimed to assess how coprophagy affects piglet behavior, physiology, and performance by depriving piglets of maternal feces for the first 7 d post-partum. Eight litters were randomly assigned either to have access to maternal feces (control) or to be deprived of maternal feces for the first 7 d post-partum. Piglet behavior was observed for 24 h at 7 d of age and two piglets from each litter (male and female) were bled for hematological analysis at 0, 7, and 21 d of age. Piglets feed intake and weight gain were measured until 123 d post-weaning. No behavioral differences were observed between treatments. Overall, control piglets had 25% higher white blood cell counts and higher feed intake and weight gain than piglets deprived of maternal feces. At 123 d post-weaning, control piglets were 9.6 kg heavier than piglets deprived of maternal feces. In conclusion, piglets with access to maternal feces early in life exhibited better performance. The mechanisms by which coprophagy improves piglet performance needs to be elucidated in further studies, but could include effects of the nutrition, microbiome or semiochemical exposure. Abstract Coprophagy has been described in piglets although its importance has not been fully assessed. The aim of this study was to evaluate how deprivation of maternal feces influenced piglet physiology, behavior, and performance. Eight litters were randomly assigned to one of two treatments. Control (CON) litters had access to maternal feces while deprived (DEP) litters were deprived of maternal feces for the first 7 d post-partum. Piglet behavior was quantified for 24 h at 7 d of age. Blood samples were collected from one male and female from each litter at 0, 7, and 21 d for hematological analyses, and post-weaning performance was assessed until 123 d post-weaning. No treatment effects were observed on piglet behavior. DEP piglets had 25% lower leukocyte counts (p < 0.01). Relative to DEP litters, CON litters had increased post-weaning feed intake (0.998 vs 0.901 kg/d; p = 0.02) and weight gain (0.536 vs 0.483 kg/d; p < 0.01). At 123 d post-weaning, CON pigs were 9.3 ± 2.3 kg heavier than treatment pigs (p < 0.01). These results suggest that access to maternal feces improves immunocompetence and growth performance. Further studies are needed to explore the physiological mechanisms through which maternal feces improve growth performance, including nutritional and microbial factors, or the presence of maternal semiochemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar O Aviles-Rosa
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior, Physiology and Welfare, Animal and Food Sciences Department, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409-2141, USA.
| | - Anoosh Rakhshandeh
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409-2141, USA.
| | - John J McGlone
- Laboratory of Animal Behavior, Physiology and Welfare, Animal and Food Sciences Department, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409-2141, USA.
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De La Torre U, Henderson JD, Furtado KL, Pedroja M, Elenamarie O, Mora A, Pechanec MY, Maga EA, Mienaltowski MJ. Utilizing the fecal microbiota to understand foal gut transitions from birth to weaning. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216211. [PMID: 31039168 PMCID: PMC6490953 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract with a properly established microbiota is necessary for a foal to develop into a healthy weanling. A foal's health can be critically impacted by aberrations in the microbiome such as with diarrhea which can cause great morbidity and mortality in foals. In this study, we hypothesized that gut establishment in the foal transitioning from a diet of milk to a diet of grain, forage, and pasture would be detectable through analyses of the fecal microbiotas. Fecal samples from 37 sets of foals and mares were collected at multiple time points ranging from birth to weaning. Bacterial DNA was isolated from the samples, and the V4 domain of bacterial 16S rRNA genes were amplified via polymerase chain reaction. Next generation sequencing was then performed on the resulting amplicons, and analyses were performed to characterize the microbiome as well as the relative abundance of microbiota present. We found that bacterial population compositions followed a pattern throughout the early life of the foal in an age-dependent manner. As foals transitioned from milk consumption to a forage and grain diet, there were recognizable changes in fecal microbial compositions from initial populations predominant in the ability to metabolize milk to populations capable of utilizing fibrous plant material. We were also able to recognize differences in microbial populations amongst diarrheic foals as well as microbial population differences associated with differences in management styles between facilities. Future efforts will gauge the effects of lesser abundant bacterial populations that could also be essential to GI health, as well as to determine how associations between microbial population profiles and animal management practices can be used to inform strategies for improving upon the health and growth of horses overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ubaldo De La Torre
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - John D. Henderson
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Kathleen L. Furtado
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Madeleine Pedroja
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - O’Malley Elenamarie
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Anthony Mora
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Monica Y. Pechanec
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth A. Maga
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Mienaltowski
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
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Noninvasive Detection of Equid Herpesviruses in Fecal Samples. Appl Environ Microbiol 2019; 85:AEM.02234-18. [PMID: 30446563 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02234-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Equid herpesviruses (EHVs) are pathogens of equid and nonequid hosts that can cause disease and fatalities in captivity and in the wild. EHVs establish latent infections but can reactivate, and most EHVs are shed via the nasal passage. Therefore, nasal swabs are generally used for EHV monitoring. However, invasive sampling of wild equids is difficult. While feces is a commonly used substrate for detecting other pathogens, to our knowledge, EHVs have never been detected in feces of naturally infected equids. We systematically tested zebra feces for EHV presence by (i) establishing nested PCR conditions for fecal DNA extracts, (ii) controlling for environmental EHV contamination, and (iii) large-scale testing on a free-ranging zebra population. A dilution minimizing inhibition while maximizing viral DNA concentrations was determined in captive Grévy's zebra (Equus grevyi) fecal samples from individuals shedding EHV nasally. Sixteen of 42 fecal samples (38%) were EHV positive. To demonstrate that the EHV positivity was not a result of environmental contamination, rectal swabs of wild zebras were screened (n = 18 [Equus quagga and E. zebra]), and 50% were EHV positive, indicating that the source of EHV in feces is likely the intestinal mucosa and not postdefecation contamination. Out of 270 fecal samples of wild zebras, 26% were EHV positive. Quantitative PCRs showed that the amount of virus DNA in feces was not significantly smaller than that in other samples. In summary, fecal sampling facilitates large-scale screening and may be useful to noninvasively investigate phylogenetic EHV diversity in wild and domestic equids.IMPORTANCE Equid herpesviruses (EHVs) establish latent infections, and many EHVs are shed and transmitted via nasal discharge primarily through droplet and aerosol infection. Obtaining nasal swabs and other invasive samples from wildlife is often not possible without capture and physical restraint of individuals, which are resource intensive and a health risk for the captured animals. Fecal EHV shedding has never been demonstrated for naturally infected equids. We established the conditions for fecal EHV screening, and our results suggest that testing fecal samples is an effective noninvasive approach for monitoring acute EHV shedding in equids.
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Fecal shedding of Rhodococcus equi in mares and foals after experimental infection of foals and effect of composting on concentrations of R. equi in contaminated bedding. Vet Microbiol 2018; 223:42-46. [PMID: 30173750 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Rhodococcus equi, a soil saprophyte, is a common cause of pneumonia in foals and a frequent opportunistic pathogen in immunosuppressed people. Because it is widespread in the environment, R. equi can be detected in the feces of most horses. However, the exact timing and rate of shedding relative to infection is unknown. The objectives of this study were to quantify shedding of R. equi in mares and foals after experimental infection of foals with 2 different inocula and to determine the effect of composting on concentrations of R. equi in contaminated bedding. Foals were infected intratracheally with virulent R. equi using inocula of 1 × 107 CFU/mL (n = 16) or 1 × 106 CFU/mL (n = 12) at 23 ± 2 days (range 21 to 27 days) of age. Fecal samples were collected from mares and foals prior to infection and on days 3, 7, and 14 post-infection for quantitative culture of total and virulent R. equi. Waste from the horses was composted for 7 days. Concentrations of total and virulent R. equi in foal feces were significantly higher on day 14 post-infection compared to day 0, regardless of inoculum size. Concentration of total R. equi in mare feces was significantly higher on days 3, 7 and 14 compared to day 0 regardless of inoculum size, whereas shedding of virulent R. equi only increased on day 14 post-infection. Composting for 7 days significantly decreased concentrations of total R. equi and virulent R. equi by an average of 1.08 ± 0.21 and 0.59 ± 0.26 log10 CFU/g, respectively.
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SILVER IA, JEFFCOTT LB, ROSSDALE PD. Fifty years of the British Equine Veterinary Association as a facilitator of progress in equine clinical science. Equine Vet J 2011; 43:618-31. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2011.00379.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Observations on development of natural infection and species composition of small strongyles in young equids in Kentucky. Parasitol Res 2011; 109:1529-35. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2460-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2010] [Accepted: 04/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
Faecal egg counts were performed in 187 foals of a large Polish stud farm between February and September 2007. Eggs of Parascaris equorum were present in faeces of 7% and those of cyathostomins in 13% of the foals aged less than 194 days. Information dealing with age of foals and/or efficiency of ivermectin treatment as well as the nematode parasite prepatent periods, it can be conducted that most of the infections recorded on the basis of faecal egg counts were false-infections in animals up to the age of six months, probably due to the ingestion of infected faeces of their dam or some other horses.
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Moyaert H, Pasmans F, Decostere A, Ducatelle R, Haesebrouck F. Helicobacter equorum: prevalence and significance for horses and humans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 57:14-6. [PMID: 19682077 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2009.00583.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Helicobacter equorum colonizes the caecum, colon and rectum of horses. The agent is highly prevalent in <6-month-old foals. In adult horses, the prevalence of H. equorum seems to be rather low, but these animals may harbour low, subdetectable numbers of this microorganism in their intestines. So far, no association could be made between the presence of H. equorum and clinical disease or intestinal lesions in adult horses. Further research is necessary to elucidate the pathogenic potential of this bacterial species towards young foals. Helicobacter equorum DNA was not detected in human faeces, indicating that this microorganism does not commonly spread from horses towards humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilde Moyaert
- International Clinical Development, s.a. Alcon-Couvreur n.v., Puurs, Belgium.
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Ernst NS, Hernandez JA, MacKay RJ, Brown MP, Gaskin JM, Nguyen AD, Giguere S, Colahan PT, Troedsson MR, Haines GR, Addison IR, Miller BJ. Risk factors associated with fecal Salmonella shedding among hospitalized horses with signs of gastrointestinal tract disease. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2004; 225:275-81. [PMID: 15323386 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2004.225.275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate prevalence of and identify risk factors for fecal Salmonella shedding among hospitalized horses with signs of gastrointestinal tract disease. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. ANIMALS 465 hospitalized horses with gastrointestinal tract disease. PROCEDURE Horses were classified as positive or negative for fecal Salmonella shedding during hospitalization by means of standard aerobic bacteriologic methods. The relationship between investigated exposure factors and fecal Salmonella shedding was examined by means of logistic regression. RESULTS The overall prevalence of fecal Salmonella shedding was 13%. Salmonella serotype Newport was the most commonly isolated serotype (12/60 [20%]), followed by Anatum (8/60 [13%]), Java (13%), and Saint-paul (13%). Foals with gastrointestinal tract disease were 3.27 times as likely to be shedding Salmonella organisms as were adult horses with gastrointestinal tract disease. Adult horses that had been treated with antimicrobial drugs prior to hospitalization were 3.09 times as likely to be shedding Salmonella organisms as were adult horses that had not been treated with antimicrobial drugs prior to hospitalization. Adult horses that underwent abdominal surgery were 2.09 times as likely to be shedding Salmonella organisms as were adult horses that did not undergo abdominal surgery. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggest that a history of exposure to antimicrobial drugs prior to hospitalization and abdominal surgery during hospitalization were associated with Salmonella shedding in adult horses with gastrointestinal tract disease. Foals with gastrointestinal tract disease were more likely to shed Salmonella organisms than were adult horses with gastrointestinal tract disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas S Ernst
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610-0136, USA
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Abstract
In summary, horses spend 60% or more of their time eating when grazing or when feed is available free choice. Grasses are their preferred food, but they supplement the grass with herbs and woody plants. Sweetened mixtures of oats and corn are the most preferred concentrate. Horses can increase or decrease the time spent eating and amount eaten to maintain caloric intake. Their intake is stimulated by drugs such as diazepam and by the presence of other horses. Horses stop eating when gastric osmolality increases; increases in plasma osmolality, protein, and glucose accompany digestion. Foals eat several times an hour and begin sampling solid food at the same time that their dam is eating. Several areas of particular importance to the equine industry have not been investigated. These areas include the effect of exercise on short- and long-term food intake and the influence of reproductive state on the feeding of mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Houpt
- Department of Physiology, New York State College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca
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Stahlbaum CC, Houpt KA. The role of the Flehmen response in the behavioral repertoire of the stallion. Physiol Behav 1989; 45:1207-14. [PMID: 2813545 DOI: 10.1016/0031-9384(89)90111-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The role of the Flehmen response in equine behavior was investigated under field and laboratory conditions. In Experiment 1, a field study made of five stallions on pasture with between three and eighteen mares each during the season indicated the following: 1) The Flehmen response was most frequently preceded by nasal, rather than oral, investigation of substances; 2) The stallions' rate of Flehmen varied with the estrous cycles of the mares; 3) The rate of Flehmen response did not show a variation with time of day; and 4) The Flehmen response was most frequently followed by marking behaviors rather than courtship behaviors. The results suggest that the Flehmen response is not an immediate component of sexual behavior, e.g., courtship of the stallion but may be involved in the overall monitoring of the mare's estrous cycle. Therefore the Flehmen response may contribute to the chemosensory priming of the stallion for reproduction. In Experiment 2 stallions were presented with urine or feces of mares in various stages of the reproductive cycle as well as with their own or other males' urine or feces. The occurrence of sniffing and Flehmen was used to determine the discriminatory ability of the stallions. Stallions can differentiate the sex of a horse on the basis of its feces alone, but cannot differentiate on the basis of urine. This ability may explain the function of fecal marking behavior of stallions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Stahlbaum
- New York State College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca 14853
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Abstract
Farm animals exhibit abnormalities of sexual, maternal, and other social behaviors as well as many stereotyped behaviors. The types and incidence of these abnormal behaviors may depend on the species, its diet, and the environmental conditions under which it is normally maintained. An understanding of the causes of various abnormal behavior patterns will enable the producer and veterinarian to better manage populations of livestock and improve their well-being.
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Non-refereed articles and papers. J Equine Vet Sci 1987. [DOI: 10.1016/s0737-0806(87)80098-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Abstract
Problems related to feeding behavior in horses fall into three main categories: underconsumption, overconsumption, and abnormal consumption. Anorexia may be caused by a variety of diseases and overcome by removing the underlying causes (pain, fever), and physical or chemical stimulation of appetite. "Hypophagia" may be caused by poor dentition, disease, or stress. Again, removal of the cause or stimulation by physical or chemical means may improve intakes. Acute and chronic overconsumption of feeds are reflections of the normal controls (or lack thereof) of feeding in the horse. The only reliable prevention is to limit access to feeds. Abnormal eating behaviors such as pica or coprophagy are usually caused by a dietary imbalance or boredom. Coprophagey, however, is a normal behavior in young foals. Drinking disorders are rare, the only common one being the avoidance of "strange" water. Masking water at home with specific flavors such as peppermint or vinegar may encourage the horse to drink water from other sources to which the "home" flavor has been added.
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Abstract
Stable vices include oral vices such as cribbing, wood chewing, and coprophagia, as well as stall walking, weaving, pawing, and stall kicking. Some of these behaviors are escape behaviors; others are forms of self-stimulation. Most can be eliminated by pasturing rather than stall confinement. Trailering problems include failure to load, scrambling in the moving trailer, struggling in the stationary trailer, and refusal to unload. Gradual habituation to entering the trailer, the presence of another horse, or a change in trailer type can be used to treat these problems.
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Abstract
Examination of the developmental changes that occur in the behavior of foals reveals three major periods that can be characterized by certain types of behavior. Although the beginnings and endings of these periods are not definitive, these periods may be conceptually useful in evaluating a foal's behavior. Period of Dependence. During the first 4 weeks of life, a foal is maximally dependent on its mother for sustenance, remains near her, and has little contact with other horses or ponies of any age. Period of Socialization. During the second and third months of life, foals have rapidly increasing contact with ponies and horses other than their mother, especially with other foals. Mutual-grooming peaks during this period, as does snapping, which is probably being carried out as a displacement activity during the stressful period of initial contact with non-mother horses. Period of Stabilization and Developing Independence. From the fourth month onward, foals gradually become more independent, both from their mother and from other herd members as they progress toward adult patterns of spatial relationships, social interactions, and maintenance behaviors.
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