Table 3.
Effects of the use of algal β-glucans (from Euglena gracilis, Laminaria digitata, and Laminaria hyperborea) on the intestinal health of nursery pigs.
| Item | Initial BW (kg) or Age (d) | Experimental Period (d) | β-Glucan (mg/kg) | Results | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algae (Euglena gracilis) | 7.7 kg | 17 | 54 | Increased mRNA abundance representing intestinal permeability (claudin, occludin, and MUC2) in jejunal mucosa on d 12 | [65] |
| 108 | Increased mRNA abundance representing intestinal permeability (dectin) in jejunal mucosa on d 5 and 12. Decreased transcellular permeability. | ||||
| Algae (Laminaria digitata) | 15.3 kg | 28 | 250 | Decreased Enterobacteria spp. in ileum and proximal colon; increased acetic acid and decreased propionic acid in ileum | [39] |
| Algae (Laminaria hyperborea) | 15.3 kg | 28 | 250 | Decreased Enterobacteria spp. in ileum and proximal colon; decreased total volatile fatty acid in the ileum |
MUC, mucin; mRNA, messenger ribonucleic acid.