Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the und...Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the underlying genetic mechanisms that underlie FE-related traits in sheep are not fully understood.Herein,we measured the FE-related traits of 1,280 Hu sheep and conducted the phenotype statistics and correlation analysis,the result showcase that there was a large variation for FE-related traits,and RFI was significant positive correlation with average daily feed intake(ADFI)and FCR.Moreover,a genome-wide association study(GWAS)was conducted using whole-genome resequencing data to investigate the genetic associations of ADFI,FCR and RFI.For ADFI and FCR traits,2 and one single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)exceeded the genome-wide significance threshold,whereas ten and 5 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.For RFI traits,only 4 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.Finally,a total of 8 genes(LOC101121953,LOC101110202,CTNNA3,IZUMO3,PPM1E,YIPF7,ZSCAN12and LOC105603808)were identified as potential candidate genes for FE-related traits.Simultaneously,we further analyzed the effects of 2 candidate SNPs associated with RFI on growth and FE traits in enlarged experimental population,the results demonstrated that these 2 SNPs was not significantly associated with growth traits(P>0.05),but significantly related to RFI traits(P<0.05).These findings will provide valuable reference data and key genetic variants that can be used to effectively select feed-efficient individual in sheep breeding programs.展开更多
The agricultural sector, encompassing agriculture, forestry, and land use, significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas(GHG) emissions, accounting for 23% of the total(IPCC 2019). It faces substantial challenges...The agricultural sector, encompassing agriculture, forestry, and land use, significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas(GHG) emissions, accounting for 23% of the total(IPCC 2019). It faces substantial challenges due to population growth and the urgent need to reduce its GHG emissions. Livestock husbandry, a crucial component of agriculture, accounts for a significant proportion of agricultural GHG emissions(Nugrahaeningtyas et al. 2024). Reducing emissions from livestock is essential not only for addressing climate change but also for protecting the ecological environment and achieving sustainable development. This is a critical task for the future of our planet and the well-being of future generations.展开更多
Background Intestinal oxidative stress serves as an endogenous host defense against the gut microbiota by increas-ing energy expenditure and therefore decreasing feed efficiency(FE).Several systems coordinately regula...Background Intestinal oxidative stress serves as an endogenous host defense against the gut microbiota by increas-ing energy expenditure and therefore decreasing feed efficiency(FE).Several systems coordinately regulate redox bal-ance,including the mitochondrial respiratory chain,nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate(NADPH)oxidase,and different antioxidants.However,it remains unclear which redox balance compartments in the intestine are crucial for determining FE.Results In this study,we first screened the key targets of different metabolites and redox balance-related gene expression in broiler ceca.We then constructed a mouse colitis model to explore malic acid(MA)ability to allevi-ate intestinal inflammation.We further used controlled release technology to coat MA and investigated its effects on the intestinal redox status and FE in vivo.Finally,we examined the underlying mechanism by which MA modulated redox status using a porcine intestinal epithelial cell jejunum 2(IPEC-J2)cell model in vitro.Our results demonstrated that the MA/malic enzyme 3(ME3)pathway may play an important role in reducing oxidative stress in the broiler cecum.In addition,colon infusion of MA attenuated inflammatory phenotypes in the dextran sulfate sodium salt(DSS)induced mouse colitis model.Then,dietary supplementation with controlled-release MA pellet(MAP)reduced the feed to gain(F/G)ratio and promoted chicken growth,with reduced oxidative stress and increased bacterial diver-sity.Finally,the in vitro IPEC-J2 cell model revealed that ME3 mediated the effect of MA on cellular oxidative stress.Conclusion In summary,our study firstly revealed the important role of the MA/ME3 system in the hindgut of broiler chickens for improving intestinal health and FE,which may also be crucial for the implications of colon inflammation associated diseases.展开更多
Feed efficiency represents the cumulative efficiency with which the pig utilizes dietary nutrients for maintenance, lean gain and lipid accretion. It is closely linked with energy metabolism, as the oxidation of carbo...Feed efficiency represents the cumulative efficiency with which the pig utilizes dietary nutrients for maintenance, lean gain and lipid accretion. It is closely linked with energy metabolism, as the oxidation of carbon-containing components in the feed drive all metabolic processes. While much is known about nutrient utilization and tissue metabolism, blending these subjects into a discussion on feed efficiency has proven to be difficult. For example, while increasing dietary energy concentration will almost certainly increase feed efficiency, the correlation between dietary energy concentration and feed efficiency is surprisingly low. This is likely due to the plethora of non-dietary factors that impact feed efficiency, such as the environment and health as well as individual variation in maintenance requirements, body composition and body weight. Nonetheless, a deeper understanding of feed efficiency is critical at many levels. To individual farms, it impacts profitability. To the pork industry, it represents its competitive position against other protein sources. To food economists, it means less demand on global feed resources. There are environmental and other societal implications as well. Interestingly, feed efficiency is not always reported simply as a ratio of body weight gain to feed consumed. This review will explain why this arithmetic calculation, as simple as it initially seems, and as universally applied as it is in science and commerce, can often be misleading due to errors inherent in recording of both weight gain and feed intake. This review discusses the importance of feed efficiency, the manner in which it can be measured and reported, its basis in biology and approaches to its improvement. It concludes with a summary of findings and recommendations for future efforts.展开更多
Background: Improving the feed efficiency would increase profitability for producers while also reducing the environmental footprint of livestock production. This study was conducted to investigate the relationships a...Background: Improving the feed efficiency would increase profitability for producers while also reducing the environmental footprint of livestock production. This study was conducted to investigate the relationships among feed efficiency traits and metabolizable efficiency traits in 180 male broilers. Significant loci and genes affecting the metabolizable efficiency traits were explored with an imputation-based genome-wide association study. The traits measured or calculated comprised three growth traits, five feed efficiency related traits, and nine metabolizable efficiency traits.Results: The residual feed intake(RFI) showed moderate to high and positive phenotypic correlations with eight other traits measured, including average daily feed intake(ADFI), dry excreta weight(DEW), gross energy excretion(GEE), crude protein excretion(CPE), metabolizable dry matter(MDM), nitrogen corrected apparent metabolizable energy(AMEn), abdominal fat weight(Ab F), and percentage of abdominal fat(Ab P). Greater correlations were observed between growth traits and the feed conversion ratio(FCR) than RFI. In addition, the RFI, FCR, ADFI, DEW,GEE, CPE, MDM, AMEn, Ab F, and Ab P were lower in low-RFI birds than high-RFI birds(P < 0.01 or P < 0.05), whereas the coefficients of MDM and MCP of low-RFI birds were greater than those of high-RFI birds(P < 0.01). Five narrow QTLs for metabolizable efficiency traits were detected, including one 82.46-kb region for DEW and GEE on Gallus gallus chromosome(GGA) 26, one 120.13-kb region for MDM and AMEn on GGA1, one 691.25-kb region for the coefficients of MDM and AMEn on GGA5, one region for the coefficients of MDM and MCP on GGA2(103.45–103.53 Mb), and one 690.50-kb region for the coefficient of MCP on GGA14. Linkage disequilibrium(LD) analysis indicated that the five regions contained high LD blocks, as well as the genes chromosome 26 C6 orf106 homolog(C26 H6 orf106), LOC396098, SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 2(SHANK2), ETS homologous factor(EHF), and histamine receptor H3-like(HRH3 L), which are known to be involved in the regulation of neurodevelopment, cell proliferation and differentiation, and food intake.Conclusions: Selection for low RFI significantly decreased chicken feed intake, excreta output, and abdominal fat deposition, and increased nutrient digestibility without changing the weight gain. Five novel QTL regions involved in the control of metabolizable efficiency in chickens were identified. These results, combined through nutritional and genetic approaches, should facilitate novel insights into improving feed efficiency in poultry and other species.展开更多
Background： Feeding behavior study is important for animal husbandry and production. However, few studies were conducted on the feeding behavior and their relationship with feeding efficiency in Pekin ducks. In order...Background： Feeding behavior study is important for animal husbandry and production. However, few studies were conducted on the feeding behavior and their relationship with feeding efficiency in Pekin ducks. In order to investigate the feeding behavior and their relationship with feed efficiency and other economic traits in Pekin ducks, we selected 358 male Pekin ducks and recorded feeding information between 3 to 6 wk of age using automatic electronic feeders, and compared the feeding behavior under different residual feed intake（RFI） levels.Results： We observed that total feed time, daily feed intake and feed intake per meal had strong positive correlations with feed efficiency traits; moreover, strong correlation between feed intake per meal and body weight was found（R=0.32, 0.36）. Daily feeding rate meal and meal duration had weak correlations with feed efficiency（R=0.14~0.15）. The phenotypic correlation of between-meal pauses, with feed efficiency was not observed. When daily changes were analyzed, high RFI ducks had the highest feed consumption over all times, and obvious differences in daily visits were found among different RFI level animals during the middle period; these differences were magnified with age, but there was no difference in daily meal number. Moreover, our data indicate that high RFI birds mainly take their meals at the edge of the population enclosure, where they are more susceptible to environmental interference.Conclusions： Overal, this study suggests that the general feeding behaviors can be accurately measured using automatic electronic feeders and certain feeding behaviors in Pekin ducks are associated with improved feed efficiency.展开更多
Background:Improving feed efficiency(FE)is one of the main objectives in broiler breeding.It is difficult to directly measure FE traits,and breeders hence have been trying to identify biomarkers for the indirect selec...Background:Improving feed efficiency(FE)is one of the main objectives in broiler breeding.It is difficult to directly measure FE traits,and breeders hence have been trying to identify biomarkers for the indirect selection and improvement of FE traits.Metabolome is the"bridge"between genome and phenome.The metabolites may potentially account for more of the phenotypic variation and can suitably serve as biomarkers for selecting FE traits.This study aimed to identify plasma metabolite markers for selecting high-FE broilers.A total of 441 birds from Northeast Agricultural University broiler lines divergently selected for abdominal fat content were used to analyze plasma metabolome and estimate the genetic parameters of differentially expressed metabolites.Results:The results identified 124 differentially expressed plasma metabolites(P<0.05)between the lean line(highFE birds)and the fat line(low-FE birds).Among these differentially expressed plasma metabolites,44 were found to have higher positive or negative genetic correlations with FE traits(|r_g|≥0.30).Of these 44 metabolites,14 were found to display moderate to high heritability estimates(h~2≥0.20).However,among the 14 metabolites,4 metabolites whose physiological functions have not been reported were excluded.Ultimately,10 metabolites were suggested to serve as the potential biomarkers for breeding the high-FE broilers.Based on the physiological functions of these metabolites,reducing inflammatory and improving immunity were proposed to improve FE and increase production efficiency.Conclusions:According to the pipeline for the selection of the metabolite markers established in this study,it was suggested that 10 metabolites including 7-ketocholesterol,dimethyl sulfone,epsilon-(gamma-glutamyl)-lysine,gamma-glutamyltyrosine,2-oxoadipic acid,L-homoarginine,testosterone,adenosine 5'-monophosphate,adrenic acid,and calcitriol could be used as the potential biomarkers for breeding the"food-saving broilers".展开更多
Agolin<sup>®</sup> Ruminant (Agolin) is a blend of essential oils developed to improve feed efficiency while at the same time reducing rumen enteric methane production. Studies have shown that the ...Agolin<sup>®</sup> Ruminant (Agolin) is a blend of essential oils developed to improve feed efficiency while at the same time reducing rumen enteric methane production. Studies have shown that the product improves lactational performance, but the range of results has been varied. This experiment evaluated the effects of the feed additive Agolinon milk production in a high-component (fat and protein) dairy herd when provided for an extended time. The experiment was conducted at a large commercial dairy in the Pacific Northwest, USA. Eight pens of cows (350 to 500 cows/pen) were blocked by production, and pens within blocks were randomly assigned to treatment. All pens received a common total mixed ration. Treatment consisted of providing 1 g/cow/day of Agolin to the test group. A 4-week adaptation period was followed by an 11-week study period. Milk production and milk composition were determined by cow by averaging daily performance for the one-week period before the start of the trial (covariate period) and the last week of each of the two test periods. Feed intakes were determined by pen at the same time. Milk yield was 1.11 kg/cow/day greater (P < 0.001) at the midpoint and 1.48 kg/cow/day greater (P < 0.001) at the end of the test period for cows receiving the feed additive. Similarly, protein yields were 0.03 (P < 0.001) and 0.07 kg/cow/day greater (P < 0.001) at the midpoint and end of the feeding period. Milk fat yield was not different (P = 0.854) between treatment groups at the midpoint of the trial but increased with treatment (P = 0.002) by the end of the trial. Energy-corrected milk/feed ratio, based on pen parameters, was significantly altered by treatment at the final test period (1.48 vs. 1.64 kg/kg for control and test treatments, respectively).展开更多
Increasing forage proportion(FP)in the diets of dairy cows would reduce competition for human edible foods and reduce feed costs,particularly in low-input systems.However,increasing FP reduces productivity and may inc...Increasing forage proportion(FP)in the diets of dairy cows would reduce competition for human edible foods and reduce feed costs,particularly in low-input systems.However,increasing FP reduces productivity and may increases methane(CH4)emission parameters.This work aimed to investigate the impact of FP and breed on feed efficiency and CH4 emission parameters.Data from 32 individual experiments conducted at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute between 1992 and 2010 were utilised in this study resulting in data from 796 Holstein-Friesian(HF),50 Norwegian Red(NR),46 JerseyHF(JHF)and 16 NRHF cows.Diets consisted of varying proportions of forage and concentrate dependent on the experimental protocols of each experiment.A linear mixed model was used to investigate the effect of low(LFP;10%to 30%),medium(MFP;30%to 59%),high(HFP;60%to 87%)and pure(FOR;100%)FP(dry matter[DM]basis)and breed on feed efficiency,and CH4 emission parameters and multivariate redundancy analysis identified associations between animal and dietary drivers on the same variables.Total dry matter intake(DMI)was higher for cows offered LFP(17.3 kg/d)and MFP(17.9 kg/d)compared to HFP(15.3 kg/d)and FOR(13.8 kg/d)(P<0.001).Milk yield(P<0.001),milk yield/DMI(P<0.001),energy corrected milk(ECM)/DMI(P<0.001)and milk energy/DMI(P<0.001)were higher for LFP and MFP compared to HFP and FOR.Methane/DMI was higher for HFP(24.3 g/kg)compared to MFP(22.4 g/kg)(P<0.001).Methane/milk yield(P<0.001)or CH4/ECM(P<0.001)was higher for HFP(22.5 or 21.6 g/kg)and FOR(27.0 or 25.8 g/kg)compared to MFP(19.1 or 17.9 g/kg).There were no differences between LFP and MFP or between HFP and FOR for milk yield,milk yield/DMI,ECM/DMI,milk energy/DMI,CH4/milk yield and CH4/ECM(P>0.05).Differences existed between breeds for residual feed intake(P=0.040),milk yield/DMI(P=0.041)and CH4/DMI(P=0.048)with multivariate redundancy analysis demonstrating negative correlations with efficiency and positive correlations with CH4/DMI and CH4/milk yield.Feeding concentrates at 70%to 90%of DMI(LFP group)would not result in any further benefits for productivity,feed efficiency or CH4 yield and intensity when compared to feeding 41%to 70%concentrates of DMI(MFP group).There may be opportunity to improve profitability for lower intensity farms with less concentrate input.展开更多
Estimating the individual feed intake(FI)for multiple consecutive meals of fish reared at commercial densities has long been a challenge and this difficulty has prevented the genetic improvement of feed efficiency(FE)...Estimating the individual feed intake(FI)for multiple consecutive meals of fish reared at commercial densities has long been a challenge and this difficulty has prevented the genetic improvement of feed efficiency(FE)in fish.We propose an automatic and real-time measurement system for individual FI of fish reared in a group based on computer vision and radio frequency identification fusion technology in large yellow croaker(Larimichthys cro-cea).To achieve this,we designed a feeding station where only one fish at a time can enter and have their passive integrated transponder(PIT)tag recorded.We then trained a feed pellet detection model based on You Only Look Once v5 using an annotated dataset,which achieved a final precision of nearly 100%.Finally,we utilized the trained feed detection model combined with PIT scanning to accurately and automatically track individual FI of fish with access to the feeding station.In 10 experiments lasting a total of 792 min conducted in the laboratory,the automatic real-time feed counting achieved an average accuracy of 94.5%.In addition,during a 14-day FI measurement period conducted in an indoor farm with 894 fish that received two meals per day,large yellow croaker feed efficiency ratio(FER)was 0.9±0.4 with a coefficient of variation of 47%.FER showed a weak positive correlation with initial body weight and a weak negative correlative with F1.There was also a moderate correlation between FER and body weight gain(BWG),with subgroups that had high BWG exhibiting greater FER values.The approach described here demonstrates a method to automatically and accurately investigate FER in fish that can be used to assess the potential for their genetic improvement.展开更多
Feed efficiency is one of the economically important traits for the cattle industry that affects profit(feed costs)and the environment(production of manure and methane).Due to that feed efficiency is driven by multi-f...Feed efficiency is one of the economically important traits for the cattle industry that affects profit(feed costs)and the environment(production of manure and methane).Due to that feed efficiency is driven by multi-factors,mechanisms contributing to the animal to animal variation in this trait have not been well defined,limiting the development of precision feeding strategies to improve the herd production efficiency.Rumen microbial fermentation and volatile fatty acids(VFA)production have been recently reported to be associated with cattle feed efficiency,however the roles of rumen epithelial function in feed efficiency are less studied although the rumen epithelium has an important function in VFA absorption and metabolism which can affect host feed efficiency.Rumen epithelium is colonized with a diverse microbial population,termed epimural microbiota,which has proposed functions in tissue development,barrier and inflammation,urea transport,and oxygen scavenging,suggesting that they can affect rumen epithelial functions and subsequently cattle feed efficiency.Especially,prospective functions of epimural microbiota,enhanced rumen immunity and increased rumen epithelial thickness,might contribute to less nutritional requirement for tissue recuperation.Thus,the understanding of the functions of rumen epithelium,epimural microbiota,and rumen epithelial host-microbe interactions is essential to identify their roles in contributing to feed efficiency.In this review,we will focus on to date research findings on the structure of rumen epithelium,epimural microbiota,and epithelial host-microbe interactions together with their functions and how these are associated with feed efficiency,aiming to provide insights on future directions to study rumen epithelial host-microbe interactions and improve the rumen functions in cattle.展开更多
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sex and dietary lecithin on growth performance,meat quality, muscle collagen content and gene expression of key genes involved in collagen synthesis in finisher ...The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sex and dietary lecithin on growth performance,meat quality, muscle collagen content and gene expression of key genes involved in collagen synthesis in finisher pigs.A total of 256 pigs(Large White × Landrace) were allotted to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement involving sex(gilt or immunocastrated [IC] male) and dietary treatment(0 or 5 g/kg of dietary lecithin).All diets were formulated to contain 4.6% tallow with relatively high total fat of 6.3%.After 5 weeks of dietary treatment, pigs were slaughtered and Longissimus dorsi muscle was obtained for evaluation of meat quality and collagen content.Rectus abdominis muscle was analysed for gene expression of key genes involved in collagen synthesis namely, type Ⅰ(a1) procollagen(COL1A1), type Ⅲ(a1) procollagen(COL3A1), a-subunit of prolyl 4-hydroxylase(P4H), lysyl oxidase and metalloproteinase-1(MMP-1).The results showed that lecithin improved feed efficiency of all pigs(P < 0.05) but it had no effect on feed intake, average daily gain and dressing percentage(P > 0.05).Lecithin also had no effect on meat compression, shear force, collagen content and gene expression(P > 0.05).Immunocastrated male had higher growth rate and increased COL1 A1 expression than gilts.However, sex had no effect on fat depth at the P2 site(65 mm from the midline over the last rib), collagen content and expression of other genes(P > 0.05).In conclusion, lecithin improved feed efficiency in finishing pigs without impacting pork quality.Thus, inclusion of lecithin in diets containing high amount of tallow during the summer period could be beneficial.展开更多
Feed efficiency is one of the most important issues for sustainable pig production.Daily-phase feeding(DPF)is a form of precision feeding that could improve feed efficiency in pigs.Gut microbiota can regulate host nut...Feed efficiency is one of the most important issues for sustainable pig production.Daily-phase feeding(DPF)is a form of precision feeding that could improve feed efficiency in pigs.Gut microbiota can regulate host nutrient digestion,absorption,and metabolism.However,which key microbes may play a vital role in improving the feed efficiency during DPF remains unclear.In the present study,we used a DPF program compared to a three-phase feeding(TPF)program in growing-finishing pigs to investigate the effects of gut microbiota on feed efficiency.A total of 204 Landrace×Yorkshire pigs(75 d)were randomly assigned into 2 treatments.Each treatment was replicated 8 times with 13 to 15 pigs per replicate pen.Pigs in the TPF group were fed with a commercial feeding program that supplied fixed feed for phasesⅠ,Ⅱ,andⅢ,starting at 81,101,and 132 d of age,respectively,and pigs in the DPF group were fed a blend of adjacent phase feed from 81 to 155 d at a gradual daily ratio and phaseⅢfeed from 155 to 180 d of age.Daily feed intake and body weight were recorded by a computerized device in the feeders.Feces and blood samples were collected from 1 pig per replicate at 155 and 180 d of age.The results showed that the DPF program remarkably improved the feed efficiency at 155 d(P<0.001)and 180 d of age(P<0.001),with a significant reduction of the intake of crude protein(P<0.01),net energy(P<0.001),crude fiber(P<0.001),ether extract(P<0.01),and ash(P<0.001).The daily-phase feeding program increased the abundance of Prevotella copri(P<0.05)and Paraprevotella clara(P<0.05),while it decreased the abundance of Ocilibacter(P<0.05)at 155 d of age.The results of correlation analysis indicated that the differentially abundant microbiota communities were closely associated with 20 metabolites which enriched amino acid and phenylalanine metabolism.Our results suggest that 2 key microbes may contribute to feed efficiency during daily-phase feeding strategies in pigs.展开更多
Based on the beneficial trait which is from the two component traits of feed efficiency by price, a method for drawing up selection index to improve feed efficiency is discussed. The method avoids some troubles from d...Based on the beneficial trait which is from the two component traits of feed efficiency by price, a method for drawing up selection index to improve feed efficiency is discussed. The method avoids some troubles from directly selecting feed efficiency and settles the questions to draw up selection index for the kind of ratio traits simultaneously.展开更多
Background Feed efficiency is a crucial economic trait in poultry industry.Both host genetics and gut microbiota influence feed efficiency.How ever,the associations between gut microbiota and host genetics,as well as ...Background Feed efficiency is a crucial economic trait in poultry industry.Both host genetics and gut microbiota influence feed efficiency.How ever,the associations between gut microbiota and host genetics,as well as their combined contributions to feed efficiency in laying hens during the late laying period,remain largely unclear.Methods In total,686 laying hens were used for whole-genome resequencing and liver transcriptome sequencing.16S rRNA gene sequencing was conducted on gut chyme(duodenum,jejunum,ileum,and cecum)and fecal samples from 705 individuals.Bioinformatic analysis was performed by integrating the genome,transcriptome,and microbiome to screen for key genetic variations,genes,and gut microbiota associated with feed efficiency.Results The heritability of feed conversion ratio(FCR)and residual feed intake(RFI)was determined to be 0.28and 0.48,respectively.The ileal and fecal microbiota accounted for 15%and 10%of the FCR variance,while the jejunal,cecal,and fecal microbiota accounted for 20%,11%and 10%of the RFI variance.Through SMR analysis based on summary data from liver eQTL mapping and GWAS,we further identified four protein-coding genes,SUCLA2,TNFSF13B,SERTM1,and MARVELD3,that influence feed efficiency in laying hens.The SUCLA2 and TNFSFI 3B genes were significantly associated with SNP 1:25664581 and SNP rs312433097,respectively.SERTM1 showed significant associations with rs730958360 and 1:33542680 and is a potential causal gene associated with the abundance of Corynebacteriaceae in feces.MARVELD3 was significantly associated with the 1:135348198 and was significantly correlated with the abundance of Enterococcus in ileum.Specifically,a lower abundance of Enterococcus in ileum and a higher abundance of Corynebacteriaceae in feces were associated with better feed efficiency.Conclusions This study confirms that both host genetics and gut microbiota can drive variations in feed efficiency.A small portion of the gut microbiota often interacts with host genes,collectively enhancing feed efficiency.Therefore,targeting both the gut microbiota and host genetic variation by supporting more efficient taxa and selective breeding could improve feed efficiency in laying hens during the late laying period.展开更多
Research using open-circuit respiration chambers has established that Asparagopsis bioactive compounds stabilized in canola oil (Asp-Oil), delivering a range of inclusion between 34 - 51 mg bromoform (CHBr3)/kg dry ma...Research using open-circuit respiration chambers has established that Asparagopsis bioactive compounds stabilized in canola oil (Asp-Oil), delivering a range of inclusion between 34 - 51 mg bromoform (CHBr3)/kg dry matter intake (DMI), inhibits methane (CH4) emissions > 98% in feedlot cattle. In this study, Asp-Oil was fed at 35 mg CHBr3/kg DMI in the feedlot finisher diet under highly replicated and commercially relevant conditions, and adequately powered to confirm differences as low as 3.3% in feed conversion efficiency (FCE). The study also evaluated the effect of Asp-Oil on CH4 production (g/day), carcass and meat-eating qualities, animal health, and food safety. The experiment consisted of 300 Angus-Shorthorn (Bos taurus) steers in 30 pens of 10 and fed a barley-based ration supplemented with canola oil (Control, n = 15), or Asp-Oil (n = 15) for total 81-d, inclusive of 21-d transition to full Asp-Oil and grain inclusion in the finisher ration. Reduction of CH4 was measured using GreenFeed Emissions Monitors (GEM) in a subset of 2 pens in both Control and Asp-Oil. However, 67% of CH4 measurements were recorded below the GEM’s limit of detection. An inhibition range of 58% - 98% was demonstrated by collectively using GEM and preliminary respiration chamber measurements. Asp-Oil improved FCE 7.4% in the finisher diet, and 5.6% across transition and finisher periods. During the transition steps the steers had not yet received their full allocations of grain and Asp-Oil which is responsible for the lower FCE benefits. A 4.1% lower DMI in the finisher period contributed to benefits in FCE with no effect on daily weight gains. Cost of feed and weight gain were reduced $0.35/head/day and $0.23/kg, respectively, in steers receiving Asp-Oil. Residues of Asparagopsis CHBr3 were not detected in any sample and only trace iodide and bromide were detected in livers and kidneys of both Control and Asp-Oil steers at levels safe for human consumption. Steers demonstrated normal rumen development typical of feedlot diets. This study confirms that Asp-Oil safely induces significant productivity benefits and CH4 reductions in feedlot beef production. Commercial adoption of Asparagopsis can benefit feedlot beef production and reduces the climate change contribution of livestock production.展开更多
We conducted experiments in an artificial stream tank with wild juvenile Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis captured in the Yangtze Estuary to test the null hypothesis that their feeding efficiency on Barcheek goby R...We conducted experiments in an artificial stream tank with wild juvenile Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis captured in the Yangtze Estuary to test the null hypothesis that their feeding efficiency on Barcheek goby Rhinogobius giurinus was not affected by sand vs. smooth glass substrate. Gobies are among the most common prey eaten by wild juvenile A. sinensis in the estuary. Test results found neither substrate type significantly affected feeding efficiency by juveniles. Previous research found a strong innate habitat preference of A. sinensis for sand substrate. The present results indicate that the preference for sand is not related to efficiently capturing R. giurinus on sand, but is an adaptation predisposing juvenile A. sinensis to seek sandy substrate where R. giurinus and other benthic forage are the most abundant in the Yangtze Estuary.展开更多
Background Organic selenium(Se)has gained recognition in poultry nutrition as a feed additive to boost production and Se deposition in eggs and tissues,owing to its high bioavailability,efficient tissue accumulation a...Background Organic selenium(Se)has gained recognition in poultry nutrition as a feed additive to boost production and Se deposition in eggs and tissues,owing to its high bioavailability,efficient tissue accumulation and minimal toxicity.Selenium-enriched yeast(SeY)is a well-established source,while selenium-enriched lactobacilli(SeL),a newer alternative,offers the added benefits of probiotics.This study examined the effects of SeY and SeL on egg quality,antioxidant capacity,Se deposition,and gut health in laying hens.After a two-week pre-treatment with a Sedeficient diet(SeD),450 Hy-Line Brown laying hens(30-week-old)were assigned into five dietary groups with six replicates of 15 hens each.The groups included a SeD,SeD supplemented with 1.5 mg Se/kg from SeY(SeY15),or 1.5,3.0,and 6.0 mg Se/kg from SeL(SeL15,SeL30,SeL60).The feeding trial lasted for 12 weeks.Results SeY15 and SeL15 improved the feed-to-egg ratio(P<0.05)in the latter stages.Haugh units were significantly increased(P<0.05)in the SeY15 and SeL30 groups,while darker yolk color(P<0.05)was observed in the SeY15,SeL15,and SeL60 groups.All Se-supplemented diets increased Se content in whole eggs,albumen,and yolk(P<0.05),while SeL groups showed a dose-dependent effect.Antioxidant enzyme activities increased,and MDA content decreased in the serum(P<0.05),with SeY15 showing the highest GSH-Px levels(P<0.05).SeL60 increased serum alkaline phosphatase and aspartate transaminase,and distorted the liver architecture(P<0.05).Se-diets reduced concentrations of reactive oxygen species(ROS)in the ileum and liver(P<0.05).SeL15 improved the ileal villus height-tocrypt depth ratio(P<0.05).SeY15 and/or SeL15 up-regulated TXNRD1 and SEPHS1 mRNA while down-regulating SCLY expression in the liver.SeY15 altered ileal microbiota by increasing both beneficial and pathogenic bacteria,whereas SeL15 predominantly boosted beneficial bacteria.Conclusion SeL integrates the antioxidant properties of organic Se with the probiotic benefits on gut health,resulting in a performance-enhancing effect comparable to that of SeY.However,high SeL level(6.0 mg Se/kg)compromised productivity and metabolic functions while enhancing Se deposition.展开更多
Background:Recent studies underscored that divergence in residual feed intake(RFI)in mature beef and dairy cattle is associated with changes in ruminal microbiome and metabolome profiles which may contribute,at least ...Background:Recent studies underscored that divergence in residual feed intake(RFI)in mature beef and dairy cattle is associated with changes in ruminal microbiome and metabolome profiles which may contribute,at least in part,to better feed efficiency.Because the rumen in neonatal calves during the preweaning period is underdeveloped until close to weaning,they rely on hindgut microbial fermentation to breakdown undigested diet components.This leads to production of key metabolites such as volatile fatty acids(VFA),amino acids,and vitamins that could potentially be absorbed in the hind-gut and help drive growth and development.Whether RFI divergence in neonatal calves is associated with changes in hindgut microbial communities and metabolites is largely unknown.Therefore,the objective of the current study was to determine differences in hindgut microbiome and metabolome in neonatal Holstein heifer calves retrospectively-grouped based on feed efficiency as mostefficient(M-eff)or least-efficient(L-eff)calves using RFI divergence during the preweaning period.Methods:Twenty-six Holstein heifer calves received 3.8 L of first-milking colostrum from their respective dams within 6 h after birth.Calves were housed in individual outdoor hutches bedded with straw,fed twice daily with a milk replacer,and had ad libitum access to a starter grain mix from birth to weaning at 42 d of age.Calves were classified into M-eff[n=13;RFI coefficient=−5.72±0.94 kg DMI(milk replacer+starter grain)/d]and L-eff[n=13;RFI coefficient=5.61±0.94 kg DMI(milk replacer+starter grain)/d]based on a linear regression model including the combined starter grain mix and milk replacer DMI,average daily gain(ADG),and metabolic body weight(MBW).A deep sterile rectal swab exposed only to the rectum was collected immediately at birth before colostrum feeding(i.e.,d 0),and fecal samples at d 14,28,and 42(prior to weaning)for microbiome and untargeted metabolome analyses using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and LC-MS.Microbiome data were analyzed with the QIIME 2 platform and metabolome data with the MetaboAnalyst 4.0 pipeline.Results:No differences(P>0.05)in body measurements including body weight(BW),body length(BL),hip height(HH),hip width(HW),and wither height(WH)were detected between M-eff and L-eff calves at birth and during preweaning.Although milk replacer intake did not differ between groups,compared with L-eff,M-eff heifers had lower starter intake(P<0.01)between d 18 to 42 of age,whereas no differences(P>0.05)for ADG,cumulative BWG,or body measurements were observed between RFI groups during the preweaning period.Microbiome and metabolome profiles through the first 42 d of age indicated greater hindgut capacity for the production of energy-generating substrates(butyrate and propionate)and essential nutrients(vitamins and amino acids)in heifers with greater estimated feed efficiency.Conclusion:Despite consuming approximately 54.6%less solid feed(cumulative intake,10.90 vs.19.98±1.66 kg)from birth to weaning,the microbiome-metabolome changes in the hindgut of most-efficient heifers might have helped them maintain the same level of growth as the least-efficient heifers.展开更多
Background:Intestinal microbiota plays a key role in nutrient digestion and utilization with a profound impact on feed efficiency of livestock animals.However,the intestinal microbes that are critically involved in fe...Background:Intestinal microbiota plays a key role in nutrient digestion and utilization with a profound impact on feed efficiency of livestock animals.However,the intestinal microbes that are critically involved in feed efficiency remain elusive.Methods:To identify intestinal bacteria associated with residual feed intake(RFI)in chickens,male Cobb broiler chicks were individually housed from day 14 to day 35.Individual RFI values were calculated for 56 chickens.Luminal contents were collected from the ileum,cecum,and cloaca of each animal on day 35.Bacterial DNA was isolated and subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing.Intestinal microbiota was classified to the feature level using Deblur and QIIME 2.High and low RFI groups were formed by selecting 15 and 17 chickens with the most extreme RFI values for subsequent LEfSe comparison of the difference in the microbiota.Spearman correlation analysis was further performed to identify correlations between the intestinal microbiota composition and RFI.Results:No significant difference in evenness,richness,and overall diversity of the microbiota in the ileum,cecum,or cloaca was observed between high and low RFI chickens.However,LEfSe analysis revealed a number of bacterial features being differentially enriched in either high or low RFI chickens.Spearman correlation analysis further identified many differentially enriched bacterial features to be significantly correlated with RFI(P<0.05).Importantly,not all short-chain fatty acid(SCFA)producers showed a positive association with RFI.While two novel members of Oscillibacter and Butyricicoccus were more abundant in low-RFI,high-efficiency chickens,several other SCFA producers such as Subdoligranulum variabile and two related Peptostreptococcaceae members were negatively associated with feed efficiency.Moreover,a few closely-related Lachnospiraceae family members showed a positive correlation with feed efficiency,while others of the same family displayed an opposite relationship.Conclusions:Our results highlight the complexity of the intestinal microbiota and a need to differentiate the bacteria to the species,subspecies,and even strain levels in order to reveal their true association with feed efficiency.Identification of RFI-associated bacteria provides important leads to manipulate the intestinal microbiota for improving production efficiency,profitability,and sustainability of poultry production.展开更多
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFD1300901)the National Key R&D Young Scientists Project of China(2022YFD1302000)+1 种基金the Education Department of Gansu Province:Outstanding Postgraduate“Innovation Star”,China(2022CXZX-086)the Major Science and Technology Project of Gansu Province,China(22ZD6NC069)。
文摘Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the underlying genetic mechanisms that underlie FE-related traits in sheep are not fully understood.Herein,we measured the FE-related traits of 1,280 Hu sheep and conducted the phenotype statistics and correlation analysis,the result showcase that there was a large variation for FE-related traits,and RFI was significant positive correlation with average daily feed intake(ADFI)and FCR.Moreover,a genome-wide association study(GWAS)was conducted using whole-genome resequencing data to investigate the genetic associations of ADFI,FCR and RFI.For ADFI and FCR traits,2 and one single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)exceeded the genome-wide significance threshold,whereas ten and 5 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.For RFI traits,only 4 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.Finally,a total of 8 genes(LOC101121953,LOC101110202,CTNNA3,IZUMO3,PPM1E,YIPF7,ZSCAN12and LOC105603808)were identified as potential candidate genes for FE-related traits.Simultaneously,we further analyzed the effects of 2 candidate SNPs associated with RFI on growth and FE traits in enlarged experimental population,the results demonstrated that these 2 SNPs was not significantly associated with growth traits(P>0.05),but significantly related to RFI traits(P<0.05).These findings will provide valuable reference data and key genetic variants that can be used to effectively select feed-efficient individual in sheep breeding programs.
文摘The agricultural sector, encompassing agriculture, forestry, and land use, significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas(GHG) emissions, accounting for 23% of the total(IPCC 2019). It faces substantial challenges due to population growth and the urgent need to reduce its GHG emissions. Livestock husbandry, a crucial component of agriculture, accounts for a significant proportion of agricultural GHG emissions(Nugrahaeningtyas et al. 2024). Reducing emissions from livestock is essential not only for addressing climate change but also for protecting the ecological environment and achieving sustainable development. This is a critical task for the future of our planet and the well-being of future generations.
基金supported by the local innovative and research teams project of Guangdong province(2019BT02N630)national key research and development program(2022YFD1300401)+2 种基金Double first-class discipline promoting project(2023B10564001)National Natural Science Foundation of China(32272954)Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,China(2024A1515013131).
文摘Background Intestinal oxidative stress serves as an endogenous host defense against the gut microbiota by increas-ing energy expenditure and therefore decreasing feed efficiency(FE).Several systems coordinately regulate redox bal-ance,including the mitochondrial respiratory chain,nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate(NADPH)oxidase,and different antioxidants.However,it remains unclear which redox balance compartments in the intestine are crucial for determining FE.Results In this study,we first screened the key targets of different metabolites and redox balance-related gene expression in broiler ceca.We then constructed a mouse colitis model to explore malic acid(MA)ability to allevi-ate intestinal inflammation.We further used controlled release technology to coat MA and investigated its effects on the intestinal redox status and FE in vivo.Finally,we examined the underlying mechanism by which MA modulated redox status using a porcine intestinal epithelial cell jejunum 2(IPEC-J2)cell model in vitro.Our results demonstrated that the MA/malic enzyme 3(ME3)pathway may play an important role in reducing oxidative stress in the broiler cecum.In addition,colon infusion of MA attenuated inflammatory phenotypes in the dextran sulfate sodium salt(DSS)induced mouse colitis model.Then,dietary supplementation with controlled-release MA pellet(MAP)reduced the feed to gain(F/G)ratio and promoted chicken growth,with reduced oxidative stress and increased bacterial diver-sity.Finally,the in vitro IPEC-J2 cell model revealed that ME3 mediated the effect of MA on cellular oxidative stress.Conclusion In summary,our study firstly revealed the important role of the MA/ME3 system in the hindgut of broiler chickens for improving intestinal health and FE,which may also be crucial for the implications of colon inflammation associated diseases.
文摘Feed efficiency represents the cumulative efficiency with which the pig utilizes dietary nutrients for maintenance, lean gain and lipid accretion. It is closely linked with energy metabolism, as the oxidation of carbon-containing components in the feed drive all metabolic processes. While much is known about nutrient utilization and tissue metabolism, blending these subjects into a discussion on feed efficiency has proven to be difficult. For example, while increasing dietary energy concentration will almost certainly increase feed efficiency, the correlation between dietary energy concentration and feed efficiency is surprisingly low. This is likely due to the plethora of non-dietary factors that impact feed efficiency, such as the environment and health as well as individual variation in maintenance requirements, body composition and body weight. Nonetheless, a deeper understanding of feed efficiency is critical at many levels. To individual farms, it impacts profitability. To the pork industry, it represents its competitive position against other protein sources. To food economists, it means less demand on global feed resources. There are environmental and other societal implications as well. Interestingly, feed efficiency is not always reported simply as a ratio of body weight gain to feed consumed. This review will explain why this arithmetic calculation, as simple as it initially seems, and as universally applied as it is in science and commerce, can often be misleading due to errors inherent in recording of both weight gain and feed intake. This review discusses the importance of feed efficiency, the manner in which it can be measured and reported, its basis in biology and approaches to its improvement. It concludes with a summary of findings and recommendations for future efforts.
基金supported by grants from the National Nonprofit Institute Research Grant (Y2020PT02)the earmarked fund for the modern agroindustry technology research system (CARS-41)+1 种基金Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program (ASTIP-IAS04ASTIP-IAS-TS-15)。
文摘Background: Improving the feed efficiency would increase profitability for producers while also reducing the environmental footprint of livestock production. This study was conducted to investigate the relationships among feed efficiency traits and metabolizable efficiency traits in 180 male broilers. Significant loci and genes affecting the metabolizable efficiency traits were explored with an imputation-based genome-wide association study. The traits measured or calculated comprised three growth traits, five feed efficiency related traits, and nine metabolizable efficiency traits.Results: The residual feed intake(RFI) showed moderate to high and positive phenotypic correlations with eight other traits measured, including average daily feed intake(ADFI), dry excreta weight(DEW), gross energy excretion(GEE), crude protein excretion(CPE), metabolizable dry matter(MDM), nitrogen corrected apparent metabolizable energy(AMEn), abdominal fat weight(Ab F), and percentage of abdominal fat(Ab P). Greater correlations were observed between growth traits and the feed conversion ratio(FCR) than RFI. In addition, the RFI, FCR, ADFI, DEW,GEE, CPE, MDM, AMEn, Ab F, and Ab P were lower in low-RFI birds than high-RFI birds(P < 0.01 or P < 0.05), whereas the coefficients of MDM and MCP of low-RFI birds were greater than those of high-RFI birds(P < 0.01). Five narrow QTLs for metabolizable efficiency traits were detected, including one 82.46-kb region for DEW and GEE on Gallus gallus chromosome(GGA) 26, one 120.13-kb region for MDM and AMEn on GGA1, one 691.25-kb region for the coefficients of MDM and AMEn on GGA5, one region for the coefficients of MDM and MCP on GGA2(103.45–103.53 Mb), and one 690.50-kb region for the coefficient of MCP on GGA14. Linkage disequilibrium(LD) analysis indicated that the five regions contained high LD blocks, as well as the genes chromosome 26 C6 orf106 homolog(C26 H6 orf106), LOC396098, SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 2(SHANK2), ETS homologous factor(EHF), and histamine receptor H3-like(HRH3 L), which are known to be involved in the regulation of neurodevelopment, cell proliferation and differentiation, and food intake.Conclusions: Selection for low RFI significantly decreased chicken feed intake, excreta output, and abdominal fat deposition, and increased nutrient digestibility without changing the weight gain. Five novel QTL regions involved in the control of metabolizable efficiency in chickens were identified. These results, combined through nutritional and genetic approaches, should facilitate novel insights into improving feed efficiency in poultry and other species.
基金supported by the National Scientific Supporting Projects of China(2015BAD03B06)National Waterfowl-industry Technology Research System(CARS-42)the Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University(IRT_15R62)
文摘Background： Feeding behavior study is important for animal husbandry and production. However, few studies were conducted on the feeding behavior and their relationship with feeding efficiency in Pekin ducks. In order to investigate the feeding behavior and their relationship with feed efficiency and other economic traits in Pekin ducks, we selected 358 male Pekin ducks and recorded feeding information between 3 to 6 wk of age using automatic electronic feeders, and compared the feeding behavior under different residual feed intake（RFI） levels.Results： We observed that total feed time, daily feed intake and feed intake per meal had strong positive correlations with feed efficiency traits; moreover, strong correlation between feed intake per meal and body weight was found（R=0.32, 0.36）. Daily feeding rate meal and meal duration had weak correlations with feed efficiency（R=0.14~0.15）. The phenotypic correlation of between-meal pauses, with feed efficiency was not observed. When daily changes were analyzed, high RFI ducks had the highest feed consumption over all times, and obvious differences in daily visits were found among different RFI level animals during the middle period; these differences were magnified with age, but there was no difference in daily meal number. Moreover, our data indicate that high RFI birds mainly take their meals at the edge of the population enclosure, where they are more susceptible to environmental interference.Conclusions： Overal, this study suggests that the general feeding behaviors can be accurately measured using automatic electronic feeders and certain feeding behaviors in Pekin ducks are associated with improved feed efficiency.
基金the earmarked fund for CARS-41,National Natural Science Foundation(32102537)White Feather Broiler Breeding Joint Project of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs in China(19190526)“Academic Backbone”Project of Northeast Agricultural University(20XG30)。
文摘Background:Improving feed efficiency(FE)is one of the main objectives in broiler breeding.It is difficult to directly measure FE traits,and breeders hence have been trying to identify biomarkers for the indirect selection and improvement of FE traits.Metabolome is the"bridge"between genome and phenome.The metabolites may potentially account for more of the phenotypic variation and can suitably serve as biomarkers for selecting FE traits.This study aimed to identify plasma metabolite markers for selecting high-FE broilers.A total of 441 birds from Northeast Agricultural University broiler lines divergently selected for abdominal fat content were used to analyze plasma metabolome and estimate the genetic parameters of differentially expressed metabolites.Results:The results identified 124 differentially expressed plasma metabolites(P<0.05)between the lean line(highFE birds)and the fat line(low-FE birds).Among these differentially expressed plasma metabolites,44 were found to have higher positive or negative genetic correlations with FE traits(|r_g|≥0.30).Of these 44 metabolites,14 were found to display moderate to high heritability estimates(h~2≥0.20).However,among the 14 metabolites,4 metabolites whose physiological functions have not been reported were excluded.Ultimately,10 metabolites were suggested to serve as the potential biomarkers for breeding the high-FE broilers.Based on the physiological functions of these metabolites,reducing inflammatory and improving immunity were proposed to improve FE and increase production efficiency.Conclusions:According to the pipeline for the selection of the metabolite markers established in this study,it was suggested that 10 metabolites including 7-ketocholesterol,dimethyl sulfone,epsilon-(gamma-glutamyl)-lysine,gamma-glutamyltyrosine,2-oxoadipic acid,L-homoarginine,testosterone,adenosine 5'-monophosphate,adrenic acid,and calcitriol could be used as the potential biomarkers for breeding the"food-saving broilers".
文摘Agolin<sup>®</sup> Ruminant (Agolin) is a blend of essential oils developed to improve feed efficiency while at the same time reducing rumen enteric methane production. Studies have shown that the product improves lactational performance, but the range of results has been varied. This experiment evaluated the effects of the feed additive Agolinon milk production in a high-component (fat and protein) dairy herd when provided for an extended time. The experiment was conducted at a large commercial dairy in the Pacific Northwest, USA. Eight pens of cows (350 to 500 cows/pen) were blocked by production, and pens within blocks were randomly assigned to treatment. All pens received a common total mixed ration. Treatment consisted of providing 1 g/cow/day of Agolin to the test group. A 4-week adaptation period was followed by an 11-week study period. Milk production and milk composition were determined by cow by averaging daily performance for the one-week period before the start of the trial (covariate period) and the last week of each of the two test periods. Feed intakes were determined by pen at the same time. Milk yield was 1.11 kg/cow/day greater (P < 0.001) at the midpoint and 1.48 kg/cow/day greater (P < 0.001) at the end of the test period for cows receiving the feed additive. Similarly, protein yields were 0.03 (P < 0.001) and 0.07 kg/cow/day greater (P < 0.001) at the midpoint and end of the feeding period. Milk fat yield was not different (P = 0.854) between treatment groups at the midpoint of the trial but increased with treatment (P = 0.002) by the end of the trial. Energy-corrected milk/feed ratio, based on pen parameters, was significantly altered by treatment at the final test period (1.48 vs. 1.64 kg/kg for control and test treatments, respectively).
基金Financial support for this work has been provided by(1)European Union's Seventh Framework Programme for research,technological development,and demonstration under grant agreement no.266367(SOLIDS e Sustainable Organic and Low Input Dairy Systems),and(2)the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council(BBSRC)[grant number BB/T008776/1]as part of the Doctoral Training Partnership FoodBioSystems:biological processes across the Agri-Food system from pre-farm to postefork.Special thanks to the staff of the Dairy and Energy Metabolism Units(Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute,Hillsborough,Co.Down,UK)for collection of data and care of animals.
文摘Increasing forage proportion(FP)in the diets of dairy cows would reduce competition for human edible foods and reduce feed costs,particularly in low-input systems.However,increasing FP reduces productivity and may increases methane(CH4)emission parameters.This work aimed to investigate the impact of FP and breed on feed efficiency and CH4 emission parameters.Data from 32 individual experiments conducted at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute between 1992 and 2010 were utilised in this study resulting in data from 796 Holstein-Friesian(HF),50 Norwegian Red(NR),46 JerseyHF(JHF)and 16 NRHF cows.Diets consisted of varying proportions of forage and concentrate dependent on the experimental protocols of each experiment.A linear mixed model was used to investigate the effect of low(LFP;10%to 30%),medium(MFP;30%to 59%),high(HFP;60%to 87%)and pure(FOR;100%)FP(dry matter[DM]basis)and breed on feed efficiency,and CH4 emission parameters and multivariate redundancy analysis identified associations between animal and dietary drivers on the same variables.Total dry matter intake(DMI)was higher for cows offered LFP(17.3 kg/d)and MFP(17.9 kg/d)compared to HFP(15.3 kg/d)and FOR(13.8 kg/d)(P<0.001).Milk yield(P<0.001),milk yield/DMI(P<0.001),energy corrected milk(ECM)/DMI(P<0.001)and milk energy/DMI(P<0.001)were higher for LFP and MFP compared to HFP and FOR.Methane/DMI was higher for HFP(24.3 g/kg)compared to MFP(22.4 g/kg)(P<0.001).Methane/milk yield(P<0.001)or CH4/ECM(P<0.001)was higher for HFP(22.5 or 21.6 g/kg)and FOR(27.0 or 25.8 g/kg)compared to MFP(19.1 or 17.9 g/kg).There were no differences between LFP and MFP or between HFP and FOR for milk yield,milk yield/DMI,ECM/DMI,milk energy/DMI,CH4/milk yield and CH4/ECM(P>0.05).Differences existed between breeds for residual feed intake(P=0.040),milk yield/DMI(P=0.041)and CH4/DMI(P=0.048)with multivariate redundancy analysis demonstrating negative correlations with efficiency and positive correlations with CH4/DMI and CH4/milk yield.Feeding concentrates at 70%to 90%of DMI(LFP group)would not result in any further benefits for productivity,feed efficiency or CH4 yield and intensity when compared to feeding 41%to 70%concentrates of DMI(MFP group).There may be opportunity to improve profitability for lower intensity farms with less concentrate input.
基金supported by the National Sciences Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars (32225049)the Fujian Ocean Synergy Alliance (FOCAL2023-0205)+3 种基金the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2023M732954)the Industry-University-Research Cooperation Project of Ning de (2022C002)the Fieldwork Funds for graduate students of Xiamen University (2023FG019)XMU Training Program of Innovation and Enterpreneurship for Undergraduates (2022X1209, 2023X1257).
文摘Estimating the individual feed intake(FI)for multiple consecutive meals of fish reared at commercial densities has long been a challenge and this difficulty has prevented the genetic improvement of feed efficiency(FE)in fish.We propose an automatic and real-time measurement system for individual FI of fish reared in a group based on computer vision and radio frequency identification fusion technology in large yellow croaker(Larimichthys cro-cea).To achieve this,we designed a feeding station where only one fish at a time can enter and have their passive integrated transponder(PIT)tag recorded.We then trained a feed pellet detection model based on You Only Look Once v5 using an annotated dataset,which achieved a final precision of nearly 100%.Finally,we utilized the trained feed detection model combined with PIT scanning to accurately and automatically track individual FI of fish with access to the feeding station.In 10 experiments lasting a total of 792 min conducted in the laboratory,the automatic real-time feed counting achieved an average accuracy of 94.5%.In addition,during a 14-day FI measurement period conducted in an indoor farm with 894 fish that received two meals per day,large yellow croaker feed efficiency ratio(FER)was 0.9±0.4 with a coefficient of variation of 47%.FER showed a weak positive correlation with initial body weight and a weak negative correlative with F1.There was also a moderate correlation between FER and body weight gain(BWG),with subgroups that had high BWG exhibiting greater FER values.The approach described here demonstrates a method to automatically and accurately investigate FER in fish that can be used to assess the potential for their genetic improvement.
基金Alberta Beef Producer/Canadian Cattleman’s Association(BCRC)(FRG.16.19)as well as NSERC discovery grant for the financial support.
文摘Feed efficiency is one of the economically important traits for the cattle industry that affects profit(feed costs)and the environment(production of manure and methane).Due to that feed efficiency is driven by multi-factors,mechanisms contributing to the animal to animal variation in this trait have not been well defined,limiting the development of precision feeding strategies to improve the herd production efficiency.Rumen microbial fermentation and volatile fatty acids(VFA)production have been recently reported to be associated with cattle feed efficiency,however the roles of rumen epithelial function in feed efficiency are less studied although the rumen epithelium has an important function in VFA absorption and metabolism which can affect host feed efficiency.Rumen epithelium is colonized with a diverse microbial population,termed epimural microbiota,which has proposed functions in tissue development,barrier and inflammation,urea transport,and oxygen scavenging,suggesting that they can affect rumen epithelial functions and subsequently cattle feed efficiency.Especially,prospective functions of epimural microbiota,enhanced rumen immunity and increased rumen epithelial thickness,might contribute to less nutritional requirement for tissue recuperation.Thus,the understanding of the functions of rumen epithelium,epimural microbiota,and rumen epithelial host-microbe interactions is essential to identify their roles in contributing to feed efficiency.In this review,we will focus on to date research findings on the structure of rumen epithelium,epimural microbiota,and epithelial host-microbe interactions together with their functions and how these are associated with feed efficiency,aiming to provide insights on future directions to study rumen epithelial host-microbe interactions and improve the rumen functions in cattle.
基金financed by Pork Cooperative Research Centers(CRC)
文摘The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sex and dietary lecithin on growth performance,meat quality, muscle collagen content and gene expression of key genes involved in collagen synthesis in finisher pigs.A total of 256 pigs(Large White × Landrace) were allotted to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement involving sex(gilt or immunocastrated [IC] male) and dietary treatment(0 or 5 g/kg of dietary lecithin).All diets were formulated to contain 4.6% tallow with relatively high total fat of 6.3%.After 5 weeks of dietary treatment, pigs were slaughtered and Longissimus dorsi muscle was obtained for evaluation of meat quality and collagen content.Rectus abdominis muscle was analysed for gene expression of key genes involved in collagen synthesis namely, type Ⅰ(a1) procollagen(COL1A1), type Ⅲ(a1) procollagen(COL3A1), a-subunit of prolyl 4-hydroxylase(P4H), lysyl oxidase and metalloproteinase-1(MMP-1).The results showed that lecithin improved feed efficiency of all pigs(P < 0.05) but it had no effect on feed intake, average daily gain and dressing percentage(P > 0.05).Lecithin also had no effect on meat compression, shear force, collagen content and gene expression(P > 0.05).Immunocastrated male had higher growth rate and increased COL1 A1 expression than gilts.However, sex had no effect on fat depth at the P2 site(65 mm from the midline over the last rib), collagen content and expression of other genes(P > 0.05).In conclusion, lecithin improved feed efficiency in finishing pigs without impacting pork quality.Thus, inclusion of lecithin in diets containing high amount of tallow during the summer period could be beneficial.
基金This study was financially supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(31925037,320021190)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation funded project(2019TQ0108).
文摘Feed efficiency is one of the most important issues for sustainable pig production.Daily-phase feeding(DPF)is a form of precision feeding that could improve feed efficiency in pigs.Gut microbiota can regulate host nutrient digestion,absorption,and metabolism.However,which key microbes may play a vital role in improving the feed efficiency during DPF remains unclear.In the present study,we used a DPF program compared to a three-phase feeding(TPF)program in growing-finishing pigs to investigate the effects of gut microbiota on feed efficiency.A total of 204 Landrace×Yorkshire pigs(75 d)were randomly assigned into 2 treatments.Each treatment was replicated 8 times with 13 to 15 pigs per replicate pen.Pigs in the TPF group were fed with a commercial feeding program that supplied fixed feed for phasesⅠ,Ⅱ,andⅢ,starting at 81,101,and 132 d of age,respectively,and pigs in the DPF group were fed a blend of adjacent phase feed from 81 to 155 d at a gradual daily ratio and phaseⅢfeed from 155 to 180 d of age.Daily feed intake and body weight were recorded by a computerized device in the feeders.Feces and blood samples were collected from 1 pig per replicate at 155 and 180 d of age.The results showed that the DPF program remarkably improved the feed efficiency at 155 d(P<0.001)and 180 d of age(P<0.001),with a significant reduction of the intake of crude protein(P<0.01),net energy(P<0.001),crude fiber(P<0.001),ether extract(P<0.01),and ash(P<0.001).The daily-phase feeding program increased the abundance of Prevotella copri(P<0.05)and Paraprevotella clara(P<0.05),while it decreased the abundance of Ocilibacter(P<0.05)at 155 d of age.The results of correlation analysis indicated that the differentially abundant microbiota communities were closely associated with 20 metabolites which enriched amino acid and phenylalanine metabolism.Our results suggest that 2 key microbes may contribute to feed efficiency during daily-phase feeding strategies in pigs.
文摘Based on the beneficial trait which is from the two component traits of feed efficiency by price, a method for drawing up selection index to improve feed efficiency is discussed. The method avoids some troubles from directly selecting feed efficiency and settles the questions to draw up selection index for the kind of ratio traits simultaneously.
基金supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFD1300600 and 2022YFF1000204)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31930105)+1 种基金China Agriculture Research Systems[CARS-40]the 2115 Talent Development Program of China Agricultural University。
文摘Background Feed efficiency is a crucial economic trait in poultry industry.Both host genetics and gut microbiota influence feed efficiency.How ever,the associations between gut microbiota and host genetics,as well as their combined contributions to feed efficiency in laying hens during the late laying period,remain largely unclear.Methods In total,686 laying hens were used for whole-genome resequencing and liver transcriptome sequencing.16S rRNA gene sequencing was conducted on gut chyme(duodenum,jejunum,ileum,and cecum)and fecal samples from 705 individuals.Bioinformatic analysis was performed by integrating the genome,transcriptome,and microbiome to screen for key genetic variations,genes,and gut microbiota associated with feed efficiency.Results The heritability of feed conversion ratio(FCR)and residual feed intake(RFI)was determined to be 0.28and 0.48,respectively.The ileal and fecal microbiota accounted for 15%and 10%of the FCR variance,while the jejunal,cecal,and fecal microbiota accounted for 20%,11%and 10%of the RFI variance.Through SMR analysis based on summary data from liver eQTL mapping and GWAS,we further identified four protein-coding genes,SUCLA2,TNFSF13B,SERTM1,and MARVELD3,that influence feed efficiency in laying hens.The SUCLA2 and TNFSFI 3B genes were significantly associated with SNP 1:25664581 and SNP rs312433097,respectively.SERTM1 showed significant associations with rs730958360 and 1:33542680 and is a potential causal gene associated with the abundance of Corynebacteriaceae in feces.MARVELD3 was significantly associated with the 1:135348198 and was significantly correlated with the abundance of Enterococcus in ileum.Specifically,a lower abundance of Enterococcus in ileum and a higher abundance of Corynebacteriaceae in feces were associated with better feed efficiency.Conclusions This study confirms that both host genetics and gut microbiota can drive variations in feed efficiency.A small portion of the gut microbiota often interacts with host genes,collectively enhancing feed efficiency.Therefore,targeting both the gut microbiota and host genetic variation by supporting more efficient taxa and selective breeding could improve feed efficiency in laying hens during the late laying period.
文摘Research using open-circuit respiration chambers has established that Asparagopsis bioactive compounds stabilized in canola oil (Asp-Oil), delivering a range of inclusion between 34 - 51 mg bromoform (CHBr3)/kg dry matter intake (DMI), inhibits methane (CH4) emissions > 98% in feedlot cattle. In this study, Asp-Oil was fed at 35 mg CHBr3/kg DMI in the feedlot finisher diet under highly replicated and commercially relevant conditions, and adequately powered to confirm differences as low as 3.3% in feed conversion efficiency (FCE). The study also evaluated the effect of Asp-Oil on CH4 production (g/day), carcass and meat-eating qualities, animal health, and food safety. The experiment consisted of 300 Angus-Shorthorn (Bos taurus) steers in 30 pens of 10 and fed a barley-based ration supplemented with canola oil (Control, n = 15), or Asp-Oil (n = 15) for total 81-d, inclusive of 21-d transition to full Asp-Oil and grain inclusion in the finisher ration. Reduction of CH4 was measured using GreenFeed Emissions Monitors (GEM) in a subset of 2 pens in both Control and Asp-Oil. However, 67% of CH4 measurements were recorded below the GEM’s limit of detection. An inhibition range of 58% - 98% was demonstrated by collectively using GEM and preliminary respiration chamber measurements. Asp-Oil improved FCE 7.4% in the finisher diet, and 5.6% across transition and finisher periods. During the transition steps the steers had not yet received their full allocations of grain and Asp-Oil which is responsible for the lower FCE benefits. A 4.1% lower DMI in the finisher period contributed to benefits in FCE with no effect on daily weight gains. Cost of feed and weight gain were reduced $0.35/head/day and $0.23/kg, respectively, in steers receiving Asp-Oil. Residues of Asparagopsis CHBr3 were not detected in any sample and only trace iodide and bromide were detected in livers and kidneys of both Control and Asp-Oil steers at levels safe for human consumption. Steers demonstrated normal rumen development typical of feedlot diets. This study confirms that Asp-Oil safely induces significant productivity benefits and CH4 reductions in feedlot beef production. Commercial adoption of Asparagopsis can benefit feedlot beef production and reduces the climate change contribution of livestock production.
文摘We conducted experiments in an artificial stream tank with wild juvenile Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis captured in the Yangtze Estuary to test the null hypothesis that their feeding efficiency on Barcheek goby Rhinogobius giurinus was not affected by sand vs. smooth glass substrate. Gobies are among the most common prey eaten by wild juvenile A. sinensis in the estuary. Test results found neither substrate type significantly affected feeding efficiency by juveniles. Previous research found a strong innate habitat preference of A. sinensis for sand substrate. The present results indicate that the preference for sand is not related to efficiently capturing R. giurinus on sand, but is an adaptation predisposing juvenile A. sinensis to seek sandy substrate where R. giurinus and other benthic forage are the most abundant in the Yangtze Estuary.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32302774)Beijing Innovation Consortium of Agriculture Research System(BAIC04)+1 种基金China Agriculture Research System(CARS-40)the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program of the Feed Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAASIFR-ZDRW202402).
文摘Background Organic selenium(Se)has gained recognition in poultry nutrition as a feed additive to boost production and Se deposition in eggs and tissues,owing to its high bioavailability,efficient tissue accumulation and minimal toxicity.Selenium-enriched yeast(SeY)is a well-established source,while selenium-enriched lactobacilli(SeL),a newer alternative,offers the added benefits of probiotics.This study examined the effects of SeY and SeL on egg quality,antioxidant capacity,Se deposition,and gut health in laying hens.After a two-week pre-treatment with a Sedeficient diet(SeD),450 Hy-Line Brown laying hens(30-week-old)were assigned into five dietary groups with six replicates of 15 hens each.The groups included a SeD,SeD supplemented with 1.5 mg Se/kg from SeY(SeY15),or 1.5,3.0,and 6.0 mg Se/kg from SeL(SeL15,SeL30,SeL60).The feeding trial lasted for 12 weeks.Results SeY15 and SeL15 improved the feed-to-egg ratio(P<0.05)in the latter stages.Haugh units were significantly increased(P<0.05)in the SeY15 and SeL30 groups,while darker yolk color(P<0.05)was observed in the SeY15,SeL15,and SeL60 groups.All Se-supplemented diets increased Se content in whole eggs,albumen,and yolk(P<0.05),while SeL groups showed a dose-dependent effect.Antioxidant enzyme activities increased,and MDA content decreased in the serum(P<0.05),with SeY15 showing the highest GSH-Px levels(P<0.05).SeL60 increased serum alkaline phosphatase and aspartate transaminase,and distorted the liver architecture(P<0.05).Se-diets reduced concentrations of reactive oxygen species(ROS)in the ileum and liver(P<0.05).SeL15 improved the ileal villus height-tocrypt depth ratio(P<0.05).SeY15 and/or SeL15 up-regulated TXNRD1 and SEPHS1 mRNA while down-regulating SCLY expression in the liver.SeY15 altered ileal microbiota by increasing both beneficial and pathogenic bacteria,whereas SeL15 predominantly boosted beneficial bacteria.Conclusion SeL integrates the antioxidant properties of organic Se with the probiotic benefits on gut health,resulting in a performance-enhancing effect comparable to that of SeY.However,high SeL level(6.0 mg Se/kg)compromised productivity and metabolic functions while enhancing Se deposition.
基金Funding was provided by Evonik Nutrition&Care GmbH(Hanau-Wolfgang,Germany).
文摘Background:Recent studies underscored that divergence in residual feed intake(RFI)in mature beef and dairy cattle is associated with changes in ruminal microbiome and metabolome profiles which may contribute,at least in part,to better feed efficiency.Because the rumen in neonatal calves during the preweaning period is underdeveloped until close to weaning,they rely on hindgut microbial fermentation to breakdown undigested diet components.This leads to production of key metabolites such as volatile fatty acids(VFA),amino acids,and vitamins that could potentially be absorbed in the hind-gut and help drive growth and development.Whether RFI divergence in neonatal calves is associated with changes in hindgut microbial communities and metabolites is largely unknown.Therefore,the objective of the current study was to determine differences in hindgut microbiome and metabolome in neonatal Holstein heifer calves retrospectively-grouped based on feed efficiency as mostefficient(M-eff)or least-efficient(L-eff)calves using RFI divergence during the preweaning period.Methods:Twenty-six Holstein heifer calves received 3.8 L of first-milking colostrum from their respective dams within 6 h after birth.Calves were housed in individual outdoor hutches bedded with straw,fed twice daily with a milk replacer,and had ad libitum access to a starter grain mix from birth to weaning at 42 d of age.Calves were classified into M-eff[n=13;RFI coefficient=−5.72±0.94 kg DMI(milk replacer+starter grain)/d]and L-eff[n=13;RFI coefficient=5.61±0.94 kg DMI(milk replacer+starter grain)/d]based on a linear regression model including the combined starter grain mix and milk replacer DMI,average daily gain(ADG),and metabolic body weight(MBW).A deep sterile rectal swab exposed only to the rectum was collected immediately at birth before colostrum feeding(i.e.,d 0),and fecal samples at d 14,28,and 42(prior to weaning)for microbiome and untargeted metabolome analyses using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and LC-MS.Microbiome data were analyzed with the QIIME 2 platform and metabolome data with the MetaboAnalyst 4.0 pipeline.Results:No differences(P>0.05)in body measurements including body weight(BW),body length(BL),hip height(HH),hip width(HW),and wither height(WH)were detected between M-eff and L-eff calves at birth and during preweaning.Although milk replacer intake did not differ between groups,compared with L-eff,M-eff heifers had lower starter intake(P<0.01)between d 18 to 42 of age,whereas no differences(P>0.05)for ADG,cumulative BWG,or body measurements were observed between RFI groups during the preweaning period.Microbiome and metabolome profiles through the first 42 d of age indicated greater hindgut capacity for the production of energy-generating substrates(butyrate and propionate)and essential nutrients(vitamins and amino acids)in heifers with greater estimated feed efficiency.Conclusion:Despite consuming approximately 54.6%less solid feed(cumulative intake,10.90 vs.19.98±1.66 kg)from birth to weaning,the microbiome-metabolome changes in the hindgut of most-efficient heifers might have helped them maintain the same level of growth as the least-efficient heifers.
基金This work was supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture(grant no.2018-68003-27462)the Ralph F.and Leila W.Boulware Endowment Fund,and Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station Project H-3025K.A.R.was supported by a USDA-NIFA Predoctoral Fellowship grant(2018-67011-28041).
文摘Background:Intestinal microbiota plays a key role in nutrient digestion and utilization with a profound impact on feed efficiency of livestock animals.However,the intestinal microbes that are critically involved in feed efficiency remain elusive.Methods:To identify intestinal bacteria associated with residual feed intake(RFI)in chickens,male Cobb broiler chicks were individually housed from day 14 to day 35.Individual RFI values were calculated for 56 chickens.Luminal contents were collected from the ileum,cecum,and cloaca of each animal on day 35.Bacterial DNA was isolated and subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing.Intestinal microbiota was classified to the feature level using Deblur and QIIME 2.High and low RFI groups were formed by selecting 15 and 17 chickens with the most extreme RFI values for subsequent LEfSe comparison of the difference in the microbiota.Spearman correlation analysis was further performed to identify correlations between the intestinal microbiota composition and RFI.Results:No significant difference in evenness,richness,and overall diversity of the microbiota in the ileum,cecum,or cloaca was observed between high and low RFI chickens.However,LEfSe analysis revealed a number of bacterial features being differentially enriched in either high or low RFI chickens.Spearman correlation analysis further identified many differentially enriched bacterial features to be significantly correlated with RFI(P<0.05).Importantly,not all short-chain fatty acid(SCFA)producers showed a positive association with RFI.While two novel members of Oscillibacter and Butyricicoccus were more abundant in low-RFI,high-efficiency chickens,several other SCFA producers such as Subdoligranulum variabile and two related Peptostreptococcaceae members were negatively associated with feed efficiency.Moreover,a few closely-related Lachnospiraceae family members showed a positive correlation with feed efficiency,while others of the same family displayed an opposite relationship.Conclusions:Our results highlight the complexity of the intestinal microbiota and a need to differentiate the bacteria to the species,subspecies,and even strain levels in order to reveal their true association with feed efficiency.Identification of RFI-associated bacteria provides important leads to manipulate the intestinal microbiota for improving production efficiency,profitability,and sustainability of poultry production.
