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This study evaluated the effects of kaffir lime (KL), Citrus hystrix, leaf powder on growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, blood and antioxidant parameters, and disease resistance in African catfish, Clarias gariepinus. A total of 450 healthy juveniles (10.5 g) were randomly distributed into five groups and fed diets containing 0% (control), 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% of KL for eight weeks. At the end of the feeding trial, 10 healthy fish from each group were challenged with Edwardsiella tarda infection. The study findings demonstrated significant differences in all growth parameters, including final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion rate, hepatosomatic percentage, and viscerosomatic index between dietary KL and control groups, with the group fed 2% and 3% KL exhibiting superior performance (p < 0.05). Dietary KL significantly increased white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit (p < 0.05) in African catfish, with the highest values observed in the 2% and 3% KL groups. Meanwhile, there were no significant differences in mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations between treatments. Furthermore, dietary KL significantly increased digestive enzyme activities, including lipase, amylase, and protease (p < 0.05), and the highest activities were observed in fish fed 2% and 3% KL. Antioxidative responses, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in KL-treated fish, were also significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05). Finally, the highest and the lowest cumulative survival rates following a challenge with E. tarda were 3% KL and control groups, respectively. Based on the study results, 2% or 3% dietary KL could improve the growth and health of African catfish, thus enhancing aquaculture production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the research is to study the effect of the Phytostimplus supplement on the clinical and physiological status, average daily growth and viability of calves during the dairy growing period. The phytobiotic contained an extract from three herbs (safflower rhaponticum, crowned sickle, viscose meadowsweet) and lactic acid microorganisms dried lyophilically. The work was carried out in 2023. The experiment involved calves of the Holstein breed, starting at the age of 2 days. Experimental and control groups of 10 heads each were formed. In the control group, the calves were kept on a regular diet, without the use of any drugs. The additive was soldered to calves of the experimental group at a dose of 30.0 ml / head per day after preliminary dilution in water. The duration of the experiment was 2 months. Thirty days after the start of the experiment, the albumin in the calves of the experimental and control groups exceeded the reference values by 17.8–18.1 %. In both groups of calves, α-globulin decreased in comparison with the physiological norm by 3.3–4.1 %, γ-globulin – by 6.0–6.2 %. A decrease of β-globulin by 5.5 % was observed in animals in the experiment. The rest of the studied blood parameters of calves (urea, zinc sulfate test) in both groups were within the normal range and did not differ significantly. By the end of the experiments, the total protein in the calves in the experiment exceeded the indicator in the control by 30 %, albumin – by 8.1 %, γ-globulin – by 4.9 %, while there was a decrease in α-globulin by 8.6 %, β-globulin – by 4.4 %. The studied parameters did not exceed the limits of the physiological norm. The duration of treatment of enteritis in calves in the experimental groups turned out to be less than in the control with Phytostimplus by 0.7±0.2 days. The safety of animals by the end of the experiments was 100 %. The average daily increase in live weight of calves after the use of phytobiotics for 60 days exceeded that in the control by 4.9 %.

Simple Summary: Adding the phytoactive mixture to the dairy cows' diet positively affected animal nutrition and health, improving Jersey production efficiency. The intake of phytogenics improved milk quality, reduced somatic cell counts, and increased unsaturated fatty acids. The intake of phytogenics per cow protected the mammary gland from bacteria Streptococcus spp. The phytoactive mixture directly affected the digestibility and modulation of the volatile fatty acid profile. The phytoactive mixture positively affected immune and antioxidant responses and anti-inflammatory action. This study's objective was to evaluate whether adding a combination of phytoactive (microencapsulated essential oils, minerals, turmeric extract, tannin, prebiotic, and probiotic) to the feed of lactating Jersey cows positively affects the production, composition, and quality of milk, rumen environment, and animal health. Fourteen Jersey cows were divided into two groups (control and phytogenic) for an experiment with two lactation phases of 45 days each (early lactation and mid-lactation). During the experiment, milk production was higher at various times in cows that consumed phytoactive, and these animals had the best feed efficiency. In mid-lactation, phytoactive intake increased nutrient digestibility. The number of lymphocytes in the blood is reduced when cows consume phytoactive substances. Globulin levels increased in these cows fed with the additive, which may be related to a higher concentration of immunoglobulins, especially IgA. Cows fed phytoactives had lower ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin concentrations. Lower serum lipid peroxidation, associated with greater glutathione S-transferase activity, is a good health indicator in cows that consume phytoactive substances. The higher concentration of volatile fatty acids was due to the higher proportion of acetic acid in the ruminal fluid combined with lower butyric acid. Somatic cell counts in milk were lower in cows that consumed phytoactives during mid-lactation, as well as the effect of the treatment on Streptococcus spp. (lower in cows that consumed the additive). We conclude that consuming the additive benefits cows' health modulates rumen fermentation and nutrient digestibility, and positively affects milk production and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: After piglet weaning, with the exposure to the inherent stress of this productive stage, the intestinal microbiota experiences an imbalance, resulting in a loss of beneficial microbial diversity and the development of potentially pathogenic or opportunistic bacteria. This leads to diarrhea and a decrease in the productivity and parameters of intestinal integrity and health. To address this issue, growth-promoting antibiotics have been used. However, in recent years, the search for nutraceutical compounds that can improve intestinal microbial balance and, thus, reduce antibiotic use has become important. In this regard, the effect of four nutraceutical compounds on piglet intestinal microbiota was evaluated for 30 days post-weaning. Following bioinformatic analyses, we report that essential oil from Lippia origanoides and short-chain fructo-oligosaccharides showed promising effects in reducing weaning-induced intestinal dysbiosis, with a decrease in potentially pathogenic taxa and an increase in bacteria associated with improved productivity and morphometric variables of the intestine, as well as the expression of intestinal barrier proteins. These findings elucidate the mechanisms of microbiota modulation by these compounds, aiming to reduce the use of prophylactic antibiotics and promoting the development of new studies focused on exploring metabolic changes in intestinal microbial communities. Due to the challenge of weaning pigs and the need to reduce the use of antimicrobials in animal feed, there is a growing need to look for nutraceutical alternatives to reduce the adverse effects of the post-weaning period. We evaluate the effect of different feed nutraceutical additives on the microbial communities, gut health biomarkers, and productivity of pigs during the post-weaning period. The study involved 240 piglets weaned on the 21st day of age and randomized to six different diets: D1-BD commercial standard feed, D2-AGP: D1 + 150 ppm zinc bacitracin, D3-MD: D1 + 550 ppm maltodextrin, D4-FOS: D1 + 300 ppm fructo-oligosaccharides, D5-EO: D1 + 70 ppm Lippia origanoides essential oil, and D6-SH: D1 + 750 ppm sodium humate. On day 30 post-weaning, zootechnical parameters were evaluated, and jejunal samples were taken to obtain morphometric variables, expression of barrier and enzymatic proteins, and analysis of microbial communities. Animals fed D4-FOS and D5-EO had the lowest feed conversion ratio and higher expression of barrier and enzymatic proteins compared to D1-BD, D2-AGP, and D3-MD. The use of the additives modified the gut microbial communities of the piglets. In conclusion, fructo-oligosaccharides and Lippia origanoides essential oil were the best alternatives to zinc bacitracin as antibiotic growth promoters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the work was to study the effect of a phytobiotic feed additive on the live weight, growth and slaughter performance of repair young laying hens. For the experiment, 4 analogue groups of chickens of the “Dominant” egg breed, 150 heads each, were selected. Experimental groups of repair young animals consumed the investigated phytobiotic supplement in different doses in addition to the main diet. The experiment for repair young laying hens lasted 105 days. It was established that the use of a phytobiotic additive in the feeding of repair young laying hens increases the live weight of birds in the 2nd group by 9.4 % (Р < 0.05), the 3rd by 9.9 % (Р < 0.05) and the 4th by 10.5 % (Р < 0.05), against the control group. With the additional consumption of the feed additive, the absolute increase in live weight of chickens in the 2nd group increases by 10.5 % (Р < 0.05), the 3rd by 11.1 % (Р < 0.05) and the 4th by 11.9 % (Р < 0.05), compared to the control value. It was found that the use of a phytobiotic additive in poultry feed increases the length of the keel in the 2nd group by 4.0 % (Р < 0.05), the 3rd by 7.1 % (Р < 0.05), compared to control peers. In addition, under the action of the phytobiotic, the pelvic width in young laying hens increases in the 2nd group by 19.5 % (Р < 0.05), the 3rd by 24.4 % (Р < 0.01) and the 4th and by 21.9 % (Р < 0.01), relative to the control group. With the additional use of the feed additive in the 3rd group of birds, the breast depth increases by 12.6 % (Р < 0.01), compared to the control group. It was established that the consumption of a phytobiotic supplement in repair young laying hens increases the weight of the carcass of the carcass in the 3rd group by 6.8 % (Р < 0.05) and in the 4th by 5.9 % (Р < 0.01), the weight of the heart in the 2nd group by 20.7 % (Р < 0.05) and the weight of the lungs in the 4th by 42.4 % (Р < 0.001), relative to the control value. Under the action of the phytobiotic, in the 4th group of birds, the weight of the left ovary increases by 4.4 % (Р < 0.05), and the weight of the protein part of the oviduct in the 3rd group increases by 85.7 % (Р < 0.05) and 4th by 78.5 % (Р < 0.05), compared to the reference indicator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that phytobiotics in feeding animals and poultry are the most promising due to their availability and absence of unwanted side effects and a wide range of biological effects on the body. The aim of the work was to study the effectiveness of the phytobiotic additive on productivity and feed consumption in broiler chickens. The phytobiotic supplement under investigation is a phytogenic growth stimulator that contains a complex of natural antibacterial substances that increase feed consumption and increase growth, reduce feed conversion, enhance the production of pancreatin enzyme and the formation of positive intestinal microflora, and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. One-day-old broiler chickens of the “Cobb500” cross were selected for the experiment. The scientific and economic experiment lasted 42 days. The experimental broiler chickens were fed a complete ration compound feed that provided the need for all nutrients. Experimental groups of broiler chickens additionally consumed a phytobiotic feed additive in different doses. It was found that with additional phytobiotic consumption, broiler chickens had a higher live weight in the 2nd group by 7.3 % (Р < 0.001), the 3rd by 23.5 % (Р < 0.001) and the 4th by 20.3 % (P < 0.001), relative to the control. It was recorded that under the action of the feed additive in broilers of the 4th group, the survival rate of the stock increases by 2.0 %, compared to the control analogues. In addition, when broiler chickens are fed with a phytobiotic feed additive, the average daily growth in the 3rd group increases by 23.9 % (Р < 0.01) and the 4th by 20.7 % (Р < 0.05), against control analogs. It was found that the absolute growth of broiler chickens that consumed the phytobiotic increased in the 2nd group by 8.7 % (Р < 0.001), the 3rd by 24.0 % (Р < 0.001) and the 4th by 20.7 % (P < 0.001), compared to the control group. Under the action of the phytobiotic supplement, the broiler chickens of the experimental groups had a decrease in feed consumption per 1 kg of growth in the 2nd group by 9.0 %, the 3rd by 12.1 % and the 4th by 11.6 %, compared to the control value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined the influence of different levels of postbiotic and phytobiotic combinations on growth performance, gut morphology, and fecal bacteria in broiler chickens. 288 one-day old 308 Ross unsexual broiler chickens were allocated into 6 treatments. Each group had 4 replicates, and each replicate had 12 birds. The treatments included: basal diet without any additive (negative control,NC), basal diet + 0.01% Doxin 200 antibiotic (positive control,PC), basal diet + 0.05 thyme oil + 0.05 postbiotic (0.1% Pos+Phy), basal diet + 0.1 thyme oil + 0.1 postbiotic (0.2% Pos+Phy), basal diet + 0.15 thyme oil + 0.15 postbiotic (0.3% Pos+Phy), and basal diet + 0.2 thyme oil + 0.2 postbiotic (0.4% Pos+Phy). The results showed that broiler chickens fed 0.4% Pos+Phy significantly increased in live body weight and weight gain at 35 days compared to the NC and all other treatments. Also, feed intake increased at different levels compared to the NC and was similar to the PC. The feed conversion ratio was significantly enhanced in birds fed at 0.3% and 0.4% compared to the NC and was not significant within the PC. Generally, the gut morphology at different levels of Pos+Phy was significantly improved. The villi height and width were increased at 0.3% and 0.4% compared to the NC and PC. A higher VH: CD ratio and villus absorptive surface area were found in treatments fed at a level of 0.4%. The faecal lactic acid bacteria count increased at 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4% compared to the NC and PC. The Enterobacteriaceae count decreased at level 0.4% compared to the NC, but no significant differences compared to the PC and all other treatments. The 0.4% Pos+Phy-thyme oil is recommended as a new feed additive and growth promoter as an alternative to antibiotics in broiler.

Abstract The present study evaluated the effect of two categories of feed additives on chicken performance through immunological and intestinal histo-morphometric measurements. A total of 150 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Cobb) were randomly assigned to three groups. Group I received a non-supplemented basal diet. While groups II and III were treated with a basal diet supplemented with oregano essential oil (OEO) and Bacillus subtilis, respectively, in water for 28 days. Blood samples were taken at 6, 18 and 28 days for hematological analysis, phagocytosis, lymphocyte proliferation and measuring antibody responses. Additionally, growth performance indices were recorded weekly. The results showed that groups supplemented with OEO and B. subtilis improved growth performance expressed by a significant increase in weight gain (P

The present study evaluated the effect of two categories of feed additives on chicken performance through immunological and intestinal histo-morphometric measurements. A total of 150 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Cobb) were randomly assigned to three groups. Group I received a non-supplemented basal diet. While groups II and III were treated with a basal diet supplemented with oregano essential oil (OEO) and Bacillus subtilis, respectively, in water for 28 days. Blood samples were taken at 6, 18 and 28 days for hematological analysis, phagocytosis, lymphocyte proliferation and measuring antibody responses. Additionally, growth performance indices were recorded weekly. The results showed that groups supplemented with OEO and B. subtilis improved growth performance expressed by a significant increase in weight gain (P < 0.05), with a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in feed conversion ratio (FCR). Hematological findings indicated a significant increase in blood parameters as well as a significant increase in phagocytic % & phagocytic index at all time points with a greater probiotic effect. On the other hand, OEO produced a significant increase in lymphocyte proliferation at 18 & 28 days. Humoral immunity revealed a significant increase in serum antibody titer phytobiotic & probiotic-fed groups at time points of 18 & 28 days with a superior phytobiotic effect. The histological examination showed a significant increase in villi length, villi width, crypt depth & V/C ratio. In conclusion, these results indicated positive effects of B. subtilis & OEO on both growth and immunity and could be considered effective alternatives to the antibiotic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined the influence of different levels of postbiotic and phytobiotic combinations on growth performance, gut morphology, and fecal bacteria in broiler chickens. 288 one-day old 308 Ross unsexual broiler chickens were allocated into 6 treatments. Each group had 4 replicates, and each replicate had 12 birds. The treatments included: basal diet without any additive (negative control,NC), basal diet + 0.01% Doxin 200 antibiotic (positive control,PC), basal diet + 0.05 thyme oil + 0.05 postbiotic (0.1% Pos+Phy), basal diet + 0.1 thyme oil + 0.1 postbiotic (0.2% Pos+Phy), basal diet + 0.15 thyme oil + 0.15 postbiotic (0.3% Pos+Phy), and basal diet + 0.2 thyme oil + 0.2 postbiotic (0.4% Pos+Phy). The results showed that broiler chickens fed 0.4% Pos+Phy significantly increased in live body weight and weight gain at 35 days compared to the NC and all other treatments. Also, feed intake increased at different levels compared to the NC and was similar to the PC. The feed conversion ratio was significantly enhanced in birds fed at 0.3% and 0.4% compared to the NC and was not significant within the PC. Generally, the gut morphology at different levels of Pos+Phy was significantly improved. The villi height and width were increased at 0.3% and 0.4% compared to the NC and PC. A higher VH: CD ratio and villus absorptive surface area were found in treatments fed at a level of 0.4%. The faecal lactic acid bacteria count increased at 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4% compared to the NC and PC. The Enterobacteriaceae count decreased at level 0.4% compared to the NC, but no significant differences compared to the PC and all other treatments. The 0.4% Pos+Phy-thyme oil is recommended as a new feed additive and growth promoter as an alternative to antibiotics in broiler. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Plant extracts are increasingly recognized as potential prophylactic agents in poultry production due to their diverse bioactive properties. This study investigated the phytochemical and biological properties of Libidibia ferrea (L. ferrea), a plant species native to the Caatinga region of northeastern Brazil. The aim of this study was to identify secondary metabolites and to demonstrate the antimicrobial, antioxidant and protective effects of the plant extract. Three extracts were produced: EHMV, a hydroalcoholic extract from the maceration of pods, and EEMC and EEMV ethanolic extracts from the maceration of peels and pods, respectively, from L. ferrea. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-MS/MS) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) were used to characterize the metabolites and metals. The antimicrobial activity against Salmonella Galinarum (SG), Salmonella pullorum (SP), Salmonella Heidelberg (SH) and Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) was evaluated alone and in combination with probiotic bacteria (Bacillus velenzensis) using agar diffusion and the bactericidal minimum concentration (CBM). The antioxidant potential of the extracts was evaluated in 5 in vitro assays and 6 assays in 3t3 cells. The toxicity of EHMV was tested, and its ability to combat SP infection was demonstrated using a chicken embryo model. The results showed that EHMV exhibited significant antimicrobial activity. The combination of EHMV with BV had synergistic effects, increased antimicrobial activity and induced bacterial sporulation. Composition analysis revealed the presence of 8 compounds, including tannins and phenolic compounds. In vitro antioxidant tests demonstrated that total antioxidant capacity(TAC) activity was increased, and the extract had strong reducing power and notable metal chelating effects. Analysis of 3T3 cells confirmed the protective effect of EHMV against oxidative stress. Toxicity assessments in chicken embryos confirmed the safety of EHMV and its protective effect against SP-induced mortality. EHMV from L. ferrea is rich in proteins and contains essential metabolites that contribute to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. When associated with probiotic bacteria such as B. velezensis, this extract increases the inhibition of SH, SG, SP, and APE. The nontoxic nature of EHMV and its protective effects on chicken embryos make it a potential supplement for poultry.

Antibiotics have long been overused for non-therapeutic purposes. As a result, Escherichia, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, and Proteus in avian microbiomes have become reservoirs for genetic determinants of resistance, thus spreading resistance to antibiotics and contaminating raw materials and finished products. The food industry is looking for alternative means to preserve health and maintain high productivity of commercial poultry, e.g., probiotics, phytobiotics, organic acids, etc. The research featured the effect of antibiotics and phytobiotics on enteropathogenic bacteria in the microbiomes of broiler chicken. Escherichia coli bacteria were cultivated in vitro in subthreshold concentrations on nutrient media with antibiotics for 37 days to study the effect of low doses of antibiotics on the sensitivity of isolates. The study involved microbiocenoses of broiler chicken that received avilamycin A and a phytobiotic based on Brassica juncea, Linum usitatissimum, and Nigella sativa L. A set of experiments covered the species composition of opportunistic Enterobacteriaceae, the phenotypic sensitivity to antibiotics, and the genetic determinants of resistance, as well as the antimicrobial potential of phytobiotics. E. coli developed no resistance for 37 days when the antibiotic dose remained below minimal inhibitory. Opportunistic gram-negative Enterobacterales predominated in all litter samples. E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis accounted for more than 30% of all isolated strains. Avilamycin A and the phytobiotic affected the coccal microflora but had no effect on the genus-species composition of Enterobacteriaceae. Litter samples from both experimental and control groups demonstrated K. pneumoniae with severe phenotypic resistance to ciprofloxacin, as well as blaDHA genes. In broiler farming, maintenance and circulation of resistance agents depends on litter microbiota. In this research, the chicken that received the phytobiotic showed the lowest level of resistance to ciprofloxacin while the groups that received avilamycin A had the highest resistance results. During a broiler’s life span, bacteria with no active resistance determinants in their genome remained sensitive to antibiotics, even though the contact with the latter was constant. Phytobiotics showed good prospects for broiler farming as food additive that could reduce and eventually eliminate the intake of antibiotics.

The study evaluated clove (Syzygium aromaticum) as an alternative to synthetic antibiotic growth promoters. A total of 300, day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were allotted to five dietary treatments replicated thrice with 20 chicks in a completely randomized design. Clove powder was included in the diet at 0, 100, 200 and 300 g while oxytetracycline was used as positive control. All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significant differences amongst treatment means were compared using Tukey procedure. Growth performance results showed that final weight (FW) and body weight gain (BWG) of birds fed 100 g (1008.33 and 968.07 g/bird) and 300 g (1008.19 and 967.86g/bird) of clove powder per 100 kg diet were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those fed diet with oxytetracycline (957.22 and 917.22 g/bird) with an improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 1.86 compared to those fed diet containing oxytetracycline (1.94). At the finisher phase, birds fed 200 and 300 g of clove inclusion had higher (P<0.05) FW, BWG, total feed intake (TFI) and FCR compared to the control groups. Bacillus and Lactobacillus spp populations in the ileum and caecum significantly (P<0.05) increased in birds fed 300 g compared to those fed the control diet while the population of pathogenic bacterial species (E.coli, Salmonella spp. and Clostridium spp.) significantly reduced with clove inclusion in diet. Inclusion of clove in the diets of broiler chickens at 100 g/100kg diet at the starter phase, improved BWG and FCR by 5.50 and 4.12%, respectively while at the finisher phase, clove inclusion in diets of broiler chickens at 200 and 300 g/100kg diet improved BWG by 15.65 and 21.22%; this resulted in improved FCR by 11.08 and 13.29%, respectively. Clove inclusion at 100 and 300 g/100kg diet during the starter and finisher phases, respectively are recommended for improved performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the response of broiler chickens fed diets supplemented with Digestarom® as a replacement for antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs). A total of 225, dayold broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were allotted randomly to five dietary treatments each replicated thrice, with 15 chicks per replicate. Digestarom® was included at 0, 10, 12 and 14 g/100 kg diet for T1-T4 respectively while T5 had Oxytetracycline. Data were collected on growth performance indices and carcass parameters. All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significant differences among treatment means were compared using the Dunnett test of significance. The results for the starter phase showed that birds fed 12 g/100kg Digestarom® were significantly (P<0.05) higher in final weight and weight gain compared to the control group, while those fed 14 g/100kg had significantly (P<0.05) lower FCR compared to the control group. However, there were no significant (P>0.05) differences between the groups fed antimicrobials. At the finisher phase, birds fed 12 g/100kg Digestarom were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the final weight, weight gain, FCR and cost/kg gain compared to the control group. However, there were no significant (P>0.05) differences in the mentioned parameters between the birds fed 12 and 14 g Digestarom® and those fed oxytetracycline except for cost/kg which was significantly (P<0.05) better for birds fed 12 g Digestarom compared to both oxytetracycline and the control group. There was no recorded mortality for any group. Digestarom® does not affect the carcass parameters considered except dress weight which was higher in birds fed 12 g compared to those fed 10 g, and breast which was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the group birds fed 12 g/100kg compared to the control. Digestarom® at 12 g/100kg significantly improved final weight, weight gain and FCR at both starter and finisher phases, and at 14 g/100kgimproves feed conversion in the starter. Similarly, it lowers feed cost and improves the feed conversion ratio ultimately leading to more profit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The objective of this study is to examine the effects of a phytobiotic-prebiotic feed additive (PPFA) containing a combination of carob pulp, chicory, and fenugreek on growth performance, carcass traits, and fecal microbiota in fattening pigs. One kg/T of the PPFA shows a significant effect on growth promotion and a positive effect on lean meat production and carcass quality of fattening pigs. Moreover, the PPFA has the ability to regulate intestinal microbiota by improving beneficial bacteria while inhibiting some pathogen bacteria. This PPFA could be an effective antibiotic-free feed additive to enhance growth performances, improve carcass grade, and promote healthy gut development in fattening pigs. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a phytobiotic-prebiotic feed additive (PPFA, which contains a combination of chicory and extracts of carob pulp and fenugreek) in the diets of fattening pigs on growth indicators, carcass characteristics, and fecal microbiota. A total of 329 crossbred pigs were randomly divided into two dietary treatments, including a basal diet without additives as the control group and a basal diet supplemented with 1 kg/T PPFA as the trial group. The PPFA supplementation led to a significant increase in the body weight gain and average daily gain of the trial group compared to those of the control group after 70 days of feeding. Through the S-EUROP evaluation system, we also found that the fattening pigs fed PPFA significantly improved their carcass indicators. Furthermore, it was shown that PPFA regulated porcine intestinal microbiota, including promoting the growth of the beneficial commensal bacteria (i.e., Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus) while inhibiting some potential pathogen bacteria (i.e., Bacteroidaceae and Campylobacteraceae). Our work revealed that the phytobiotic-prebiotic feed additive containing carob pulp, chicory, and fenugreek positively influences the intestinal microbiota, growth performance, and carcass traits in fattening swine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of age, breed, and sex of broilers, as well as a probiotic or phytobiotic product on mucosal morphology, bacterial metabolites, and immune traits in the ileum of broilers. A total of 2,880 one-day-old male and female broiler chicks from two breeds (Ross308® and Cobb500®) were randomly assigned to 72 pens. Broilers were offered a wheat-soybean diet without (CO), or with either a probiotic (PO; 2.4 × 109 CFU/kg of Bacillus subtilis DSM32324 and DSM32325 and B. amyloliquefaciens DSM25840) or a phytobiotic (PY; grape extract, 165 ppm procyanidin and 585 ppm polyphenols of the diet) product. The trial was conducted with a 3 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of diet, breed, and sex in a completely randomized design (6 replicate-pens per treatment). At day 7, 21, and 35, one chicken per pen was slaughtered for collecting ileal tissue to evaluate of histomorphology and mRNA expression, as well as ileal digesta to measure bacterial metabolites. Data were subjected to ANOVA (the main factors; age, diet, breed, and sex) and Four-Way ANOVA (interactions) using GLM procedure. Overall, the concentration of acetate and total short chain fatty acids reached the peak and lactate decreased to its lowest on day 21, but their concentrations at day 7 and 35 were similar (p > 0.05). Spermine, spermidine, and ammonia decreased after day 7, while putrescine and cadaverine increased after day 21 (p < 0.05). mRNA expression of cytokines, mucin 2 (MUC2) and claudin 5 (CLDN5) was similar; increased from day 7 to 21 and decreased afterward (p < 0.05). Villus height, crypt depth and villus surface area increased with age (p < 0.05). Acidic goblet cells (GC) number and density increased after day 21 (p < 0.05). Ross broilers showed higher D-lactate concentration and IFN-γ expression, while Cobb broilers had greater IL-4, IL-6 and TNF-α expression and higher total GC number (p < 0.05). Female displayed higher villus height and GC number and density (mixed and total GC) than male (p < 0.05). The effect of dietary treatment was not found on any investigated variables (p > 0.05). In conclusion, aging of broilers affected ileal histomorphology, cytokine expression, and barrier integrity, as well as bacterial activity. These observed impacts could be attributed to host-microbiota interaction and the direct effects of bacterial metabolites on intestinal cells and immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the challenge of weaning pigs and the need to reduce the use of antimicrobials in animal feed, there is a growing need to look for nutraceutical alternatives to reduce the adverse effects of the post-weaning period. We evaluate the effect of different feed nutraceutical additives on the microbial communities, gut health biomarkers, and productivity of pigs during the post-weaning period. The study involved 240 piglets weaned on the 21st day of age and randomized to six different diets: D1-BD commercial standard feed, D2-AGP: D1 + 150 ppm zinc bacitracin, D3-MD: D1 + 550 ppm maltodextrin, D4-FOS: D1 + 300 ppm fructo-oligosaccharides, D5-EO: D1 + 70 ppm Lippia origanoides essential oil, and D6-SH: D1 + 750 ppm sodium humate. On day 30 post-weaning, zootechnical parameters were evaluated, and jejunal samples were taken to obtain morphometric variables, expression of barrier and enzymatic proteins, and analysis of microbial communities. Animals fed D4-FOS and D5-EO had the lowest feed conversion ratio and higher expression of barrier and enzymatic proteins compared to D1-BD, D2-AGP, and D3-MD. The use of the additives modified the gut microbial communities of the piglets. In conclusion, fructo-oligosaccharides and Lippia origanoides essential oil were the best alternatives to zinc bacitracin as antibiotic growth promoters.

The study was carried out to evaluate the effect of P. guineense and G. africanum inclusion in the diet of broiler chickens as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs). A total of 408 day-old Ross broiler chicks were allotted randomly to eight dietary treatments each replicated thrice, with 17 chicks per replicate in a completely randomized design. P. guineense and G. africanum were included at 0 g (T1), 250 g, 500 g and 750 g respectively (T2-T7) while oxytetracycline was used as a positive control (T8). Data were collected on growth, haematological and antioxidant activities. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significant differences among treatment means were compared using Tukey procedures. The growth performance result showed that final weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and feed cost per kg gain were significantly (p<0.05) better in birds fed diets containing oxytetracycline and P. guineense at 250 g and G. africanum at 500 g/100kg diets at both the starter and finisher phases. Haematological parameters were significantly improved and were within normal range reported for healthy chickens. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase contents were increased (p<0.05) while catalase content was reduced as levels of P. guineense and G. africanum in the diet increases. P. guineense and G. africanum inclusion in broiler chickens diets at 250g and 500g/100kg diets, respectively significantly improved growth performance and antioxidant activities with no adverse effect on haematological parameters; hence, can be included in broiler chickens’ diet at 250g and 500g/100kg diets as an alternative to synthetic AGPs for improved performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 45-day feeding trial using solid-state fermented orange peel (FOP) and prickly pear peel (FPP) by Brewer's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae was conducted to evaluate water quality, microbiological analysis, digestive enzyme activities, gene expression, growth performance and survival of shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei as phytobiotic products feed additives. Three treatments were formulated: Control (C, only commercial diet); FOP (2.5% FOP + commercial diet) and FPP (2.5% FPP + commercial diet). 720 postlarvae shrimp (0.05± 0.09g) were divided in three experimental treatments, with three replicate tanks each and stocked with 80 PL. It was observed that weight gain, feed conversion ratio, specific growth rate and survival % differed significantly (P<0.05) between the FPP and the control. The total vibrio population in water and shrimp intestines declined significantly (P<0.05) in FOP and FPP; whilst, the heterotrophic was significantly enhanced (P<0.05) in FOP and FPP, compared to control. All digestive enzyme activities were influenced by an increase in the hepatopancreas, stomach and intestine of shrimp fed with FOP and FPP diets. Furthermore, both growth and immune-related gene expressions increased in FPP. The present study showed that the addition of 2.5% solid-state fermented orange or prickly pear peels by Brewer's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae to the shrimp diet can enhance shrimp development, intestinal bacteria, digestive enzymes and the gene expression of shrimp L. vannamei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of probiotics and phytobiotics has attracted interest because of their protective effect against acidosis. Ferula elaeochytris (FE) is considered a good source of bioactive compounds, mainly monoterpene α-pinene. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a direct-fed microbial blend (Pro) and FE on rumen fermentation parameters in vitro under normal and acidosis conditions.

It was assumed that the addition of a phytobiotic preparation containing cinnamon oil and citric acid to water, at a properly selected dose and time of application, could reduce the occurrence of metabolic disorders of the nervous tissue leading to neurodegenerative lesions. The aim of the study was to compare the effect of selected doses of the phytobiotic administered over different periods of time on the level of parameters indicating the occurrence of neurodegenerative changes in selected tissues of broiler chickens. All doses of the phytobiotic reduced the formation of ß-amyloid deposits both after its continuous administration and during selected rearing periods. The levels of neurometabolism indicators were analysed to assess the effect of the phytobiotic containing cinnamon oil. The addition of the highest and medium doses of the phytobiotic (0.25 and 0.1 ml/l) resulted in a beneficial increase in the concentration of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), as well as a decrease in the concentration of hyperphosphorylated Tau protein and cholesterol levels, especially during continuous application of the cinnamon preparation. The highest dose of phytobiotic (0.25 ml/l) also favourably reduced glycosylated acetylcholinesterase (GAChE) and Tau protein levels, and the strongest effect was obtained during continuous application of the cinnamon oil formulation. The strongest neuroprotective effect was obtained using a phytobiotic containing cinnamon oil and citric acid at a dose of 0.25 ml/l water for 42 days of rearing broiler chickens, manifested as a reduction in the formation of toxic amyloid-ß, phosphorylated Tau protein and GAChE, as well as increased levels of LRP1 and AChE proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Simple Summary: The development of dairy cattle breeding is impossible without improving the technologies of raising, feeding, and high-quality breeding work. An important role in the development of cattle milk production is played by local breeds of cows, which have a sufficiently high genetic variability necessary for adaptations to future climate changes, consumer demand, and improvement of economically important traits. Low productivity is a crucial factor in the loss of local livestock breeds, as they are replaced by highly productive foreign cross breeds, which makes many countries, for example, Russia, Serbia, etc., dependent on imported breeds. This study investigated the effect of the inclusion of natural dry grits from Fucus vesiculosus and mineral adsorbent from the heat-treated mineral shungite extracted only in Russia in feeding native Suksun breed, and their effect on milk yield, the use of nutrients and nitrogen balance in the diet, and biochemical parameters of the blood. Our research purpose was to study the effect of the inclusion of a combination of phytobiotics in the form of dry Fucus vesiculosus grits (FG) and a mineral adsorbent from the heat-treated mineral shungite (TMS) on milk productivity, nutrient digestibility, and biochemical parameters of the Suksun dairy cows. A total of 80 dry-hardy cows of the Suksun breed were divided into four groups (20 heads each), balanced primarily by breed, age, body weight, body condition score, and indicators of milk yield for the previous lactation. The selected cows were with an average live body weight of 512.0 ± 1.28 kg, BCS 3.0–3.5, and parities of 6250 kg milk. The control group (CON) were fed the basic ration only; the second (TMS), third (FG), and fourth (TMS + FG) groups were fed the basic ration provided by 50 g of the mineral adsorbent from heat-treated shungite, 100 g of Fucus grits (Fucus vesiculosus), 50 g of the mineral adsorbent from heat-treated shungite, and 100 g of dry grits from Fucus vesiculosus, respectively. The total protein content in milk was significantly higher in the group receiving Fucus vesiculosus by 0.05% and the group receiving a combination of mineral adsorbent and Fucus vesiculosus by 0.03%. The percentage of milk fat content recorded the highest significant value in (TMS) group when compared to the control and represented (4.37 vs. 3.95). The group of cows that received (TMS + FG) revealed a significant difference in the digestibility of both ether extract and crude fiber when compared to the control group and represented (54.74 vs. 51.71 and 60.68 vs. 55.15%), respectively. The cows supplemented with a mineral adsorbent or a combination of mineral adsorbent and Fucus vesiculosus revealed a significant difference in the digestibility of ether extract and crude fiber in the group receiving TMS + FG by 3.0% (p < 0.05) and 5.5% (p < 0.05), respectively. The intake of nitrogen with the diet increased in (FG) and (TMS + FG) groups by 11.3 g (p < 0.05) and 13.4 g (p < 0.05) of nitrogen. There was an increase (p < 0.05) in the concentration of rumen ammonia in the control group compared to the other groups. The glucose content of those cows that received FG and TMS + FG combination increased (p < 0.05) by 0.76 mmol/L and 0.90 mmol/l in relation to the control group. The globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, and the level of triglycerides revealed a significant difference between the different experimental groups. In brief, the inclusion of a combination of phytobiotics in the form of dry Fucus vesiculosus grits and a mineral adsorbent from the heat-treated mineral shungite in Suksun dairy cows' diets improved milk composition, digestibility of nutrients, utilization of nitrogen, and did not cause deleterious effects on blood biochemical indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aimed to evaluate whether different methods of providing eubiotic feed additives to neonatal calves, during the preweaning period, can improve the calves’ health, performance, ruminal fermentation, and metabolic status. Forty-four (3-day-old) Holstein–Friesian dairy calves (22 female and 22 male) were divided into four treatment groups for the duration of the 8-week trial. The eubiotic feed additive consisted of a combination of probiotic Lactobacillus spp. (multiple-strains at a dose of 250 mg/calf/day) and phytobiotics containing rosmarinic acid, as the main bioactive compound (at a dose of 50 mg/calf/day). The groups were named: CON (control, without eubiotic in either the milk replacer or the starter feed), MR (eubiotic in the milk replacer), SF (eubiotic in the starter feed), MRS (eubiotic in both the milk replacer and the starter feed). The individual intake of starter feed and the fecal scores were measured daily, and body weight and biometric measurements were taken weekly until calves were 56 days of age. Blood samples were collected on day 3 and then every 14 days to determine concentrations of insulin-like-growth-factor-I, β-hydroxybutyrate, non-esterified fatty acids, and blood urea nitrogen. Ruminal fluid was collected on days 28 and 56 for short-chain fatty acids, NH3-N, and pH measurements. Results The body weight of the calves of the MR treatment group was higher compared to all other groups on days 28 and 56. Including the eubiotic feed additive in the milk replacer increased average daily gain, starter intake, and total dry matter intake from day 29 to day 56 and the overall experimental period compared to the CON group. The calves with MR treatment had lower fecal scores from days 3 to 28, a number of parasite oocysts/cysts per gram of feces on day 28, and the occurrences of fecal consistency scores of 3 (mild diarrhea) and 4 (severe diarrhea) were 3.2 and 3.0 times lower, respectively, compared with the CON group. The MR group had higher ruminal concentrations of short-chain-fatty-acids, propionate, and butyrate on day 56 than the CON group. Adding eubiotics into milk replacer resulted in the highest concentrations of blood insulin-like-growth-factor-I and β-hydroxybutyrate from days 29 to 56 and the overall experimental period. Conclusion The addition of eubiotic feed additives into the milk replacer can improve health, performance, ruminal fermentation, and biochemical blood indices in dairy calves during the preweaning period.

Abstract Purpose This research was performed to evaluate the antibacterial and health-promoting potentials of nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic-rich fraction (PRF) from Alcea rosea leaves, as a dietary phytobiotic, in mice as challenged by enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli; O157: H7). Method The PEF was encapsulated in nanoliposomes (PEF-NLs), and the phenolic profiling of PEF-NLs was confirmed by HPLC. Next, 40 white male balb/c mice were assigned to four treatment groups to assess the antibacterial potential of PEF-NLs by measuring the blood parameters and the liver’s lipid peroxidation in the mice as a result of the infection caused by E. coli. Finally, the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were determined in the miceʼs ileum tissues. A real-time PCR was used to analyze the relative fold changes in the population of E. coli in the ileum. Results The overall results demonstrated that the nanoliposome-loaded PRF contained gallic acid, salicylic acid, pyrogallol, cinnamic acid, catechin, naringin, and ferulic acid. The E. coli intervention impaired the mice's weight gain, food intake, liver enzymes, lipid peroxidation, and the ileum’s morphometric characteristics. The challenge also upregulated the inflammatory genes (COX2, iNOS), downregulated the antioxidant-related genes (SOD and GPx), and increased the population of E. coli in the ileum. The dietary inclusion of the nonencapsulated PRF and the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF, at the concentration of 10 mg TPC/kg BW/day, improved these parameters. However, compared to nonencapsulated PRF, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF appeared to be more effective in improving the health parameters in mice. Conclusion As a promising phytobiotic, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could play a critical role against the E. coli infection in mice probably due to the increase in the higher intestinal solubility, bioavailability, and absorption of phenolic compounds encapsulated in the nanoliposome carrier.

Piperine is a phytobiotic and a polyphenol-derived alkaloid compound extracted from the pepper. We evaluated the effects of dietary piperine on growth, feed utilization, innate immunity, digestibility and disease resistance of Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. A control (Con) diet was formulated without piperine, and five other diets were prepared by supplementing graded piperine (purity 10 %) levels of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 g/kg (P25, P50, P100, P200 and P400, respectively) to Con diet. Triplicate groups of shrimp were fed one of the diets four times daily for 53 days. A challenge test was conducted with Vibrio parahaemolyticus after the feeding trial. Growth performance, feed utilization and IGF-BP mRNA expression were significantly improved by the dietary supplementation of piperine. The dietary piperine supplementation significantly improved the non-specific immune responses and antioxidant status of shrimp. Protein, lipid and dry matter digestibility of the diets were significantly increased by piperine. The disease resistance of shrimp was also significantly enhanced against V. parahaemolyticus when fed P25 or P100 diets. Based on quadratic regression analysis, the optimal dietary piperine level was estimated to be 2.2 g/kg in diet. Therefore, these results indicate that piperine can be used as a feed additive to improve the growth, feed utilization, immunity, digestibility and disease resistance of Pacific white shrimp.

Feed additives is important to improve the appearance of duck production. The purpose of this study was to determine the weight and proportion of Mojosari Laying Duck carcass parts that contained calcium phytobiotics. Twenty-four flocks of 120 mojosari laying ducks (24-week-old) were used. Variation Analysis was used to statistically examine the data (ANOVA). Duncan's Multiple Distance Test is used if the study's data show a substantial difference between treatments. A Complete Randomized Design is employed using 6 treatments and 4 tests, each containing 5 mojosari laying ducks. Treatment (P0) is the control feed, (P1) is the control feed plus zinc bacitracin, (P2) is the control feed plus phytobiotics 0.25%, (P3) is the control feed plus phytobiotics 0.50%, (P4) is the control feed plus phytobiotics 0.75%, and (P5) is the control feed plus 1% phytobiotics. The findings demonstrated that the addition of phytobiotic calcium did not significantly affect carcass weight or the percentage of carcass parts (P>0.05). However, (P2) increased the carcass weight compared to the control meal. Weight of the carcass produced is 792.50±91.06 – 972.50±86.84. The percentage of carcasses is 50±0.05 - 57±0.07. The percentage of back pieces was 32.19±1.54 – 36.32±2.94. The percentage of chest pieces was 7.26±0.84 – 8.63±0.97. The percentage of wing pieces was 14.46±0.48 – 13.63±1.93. The percentage of upper thigh pieces produced was 9.50±0.82 – 10.35±2.31, and the percentage of lower thigh pieces was 11.48±0.91 – 13.34±1.97. Results showed that the addition of phytobiotic calcium did not significantly affect the proportion of parts and carcass weight (P>0.05).

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of phytobiotics combination of Origanum vulgare and Andrographis paniculata water extracts (FOA) mixed into the feed of broiler and specific-pathogen-free chickens as an alternative to Antibiotics Growth Promoter (AGP). Performance, intestinal bacteria characteristic, and oocysts of Eimeria spp. in feces were measured and compared with the AGP-added group. The first experiment in broiler chickens compared FOA, Zinc Bacitracin (ZB, as an AGP group), and negative control. On day 28, FOA group and ZB group showed significantly higher body weight than the control group (P

Simple Summary: Nasturtium officinale contains a sufficient amount of minerals, vitamins and flavonoid compounds which can act as antioxidants to reduce oxidative damages in tissues. It has been considered as a good additive to cleanse toxins from the body and inhibit the development of cancer cells. The present study attempted to investigate the health benefits of nonencapsulated and nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic rich fractions obtained from Nasturtium officinale on mice induced colorectal cancer. The experiment focused on encapsulation efficiency in improving the effectiveness of plant bioactive compounds. The results showed that phenolic rich fractions improved health condition of mice by improving Caspase 3, Bax, Bcl2, iNOS and SOD genes in the tumor tissue. Furthermore, phenolic rich fractions improved intestinal morphology when the mice were challenged with colorectal cancer. The health benefits observed in this study could be associated with its enhanced intestinal absorption, bioavailability, bioaccessibility and bioactivity. The results of the study concluded that the nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic rich fractions could be considered as a promising anticancer agent against colorectal cancer. Nasturtium officinale contains high amounts of phytochemical compounds that work against oxidative damages leading to improved health conditions in animals as well as humans. The study was performed to investigate the health benefits of nonencapsulated and nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic rich fractions obtained from Nasturtium officinale on mice induced colorectal cancer. The experiment focused on encapsulation efficiency in improving the effectiveness of plant bioactive compounds. Phenolic rich fractions (PRF) were successfully loaded in the nanoliposome structure, a nanometer in size, of spherical shape and with homogeneous dispersion. Induction of colorectal cancer in mice impaired weight gain and feed intake, liver function and structural characteristics of ileum, while the dietary administration of nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF regulated the expression of Caspase 3, Bax, Bcl2, iNOS and SOD genes in the tumor tissue. The addition of nonencapsulated PRF and nanoliposome encapsulated PRF at the concentration of 100 mg TPC/kg BW/day improved the genes expression, although the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF revealed better health outcomes compared to nonencapsulated PRF. Furthermore, both PRF improved intestinal morphology when the mice were challenged with colorectal cancer. The higher health promoting activity of nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could be associated with its enhanced intestinal absorption, bioavailability, bioaccessibility and bioactivity. Consequently, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could be considered as a promising anticancer agent against colorectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to compare the noncapsulated with nanoliposome‐encapsulated phenolic‐rich fraction (PRF) obtained from Rheum ribes as a dietary additive and to assess their health‐promoting potentials in the mice infected by enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (O157:H7). Upon fractionation, the ethyl acetate fraction with 46.9 ± 2.17 mg GAE/g DW was found as a highest phenolic content. The PRF successfully loaded into nanoliposome structure with a nanometer in size (193.2 nm) and spherical shape and homogeneous dispersion. The gallic acid, salicylic acid, caffeic acid, cinnamic acid, catechin, ellagic acid, and ferulic acid are bioactive phenolics present in the nanoliposome‐loaded PRF; however, the main bioactive compounds are cinnamic acid (911 μg/g DW) and ellagic acid (826 μg/g DW). The infection caused by E. coil impaired the weight gain and food intake, liver function, morpho structural characteristics of jejunum, upregulated the expression of inflammatory genes (Cox2, iNOS), downregulation of antioxidant‐related genes (SOD, GPX), and increased the ileal population of E. coil. The addition of nonencapsulated PRF and nanoliposome‐encapsulated PRF at the concentration of 10 mg TPC/kg BW/day improved these parameters although the nanoliposome‐encapsulated PRF revealed more potential as compared with the nonencapsulated PRF in improving the health parameters in mice. The higher health‐promoting activity of nanoliposome‐encapsulated PRF could be associated with its enhanced intestinal absorption, bioavailability, bioaccessibility, and bioactivity. Consequently, the nanoliposome‐encapsulated PRF could be considered as a promising phytobiotic against E. coil infection in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The rapid growth in antibiotic synthesis and the discovery of new classes of antibiotics have led to their wide availability. Antibiotics have begun to be used not only in medicine but also in the agricultural sector. The widespread, uncontrolled use of antibiotics in industrial poultry farming has contributed to the growth of resistant types of pathogenic and opportunistic environmental microorganisms. In addition, the vigorous introduction of antibiotics contributes to the risk of the contamination of livestock products, which are then used in human nutrition with antibiotic residues present. The consumption of poultry products contaminated with antibiotic residues due to antibiotic resistance can be lethal to humans. Therefore, we hypothesize that feed additives based on plant extracts, which can be used as alternatives to antibiotics, can affect the productivity, health status, and quality of poultry products. Our results show that the use of phytobiotics in the diet of broilers had promising effects on the digestibility of feed nutrients and the dynamics of the growth of the live body weight of broiler chickens. To determine the level of application and the effectiveness of the use of plant feed additives from sweet chestnut wood extract (Castanea Sativa Mill) in the diet of Cobb-500 cross broiler chickens, four groups were formed via the balanced groups method. The chickens in the experimental groups were supplemented with sweet chestnut wood extract in the main diet rather than a feed antibiotic at an amount of 500 g per ton of compound starter feed and 250 g per ton of grower and finisher in the second experimental group; 650 g per ton of compound starter feed and 325 g per ton of grower and finisher in the third experimental group; and 800 g per ton of compound starter feed and 400 g per ton of grower and finisher in the fourth experimental group. Supplementation with phytobiotics led to an increase in the digestibility of the dry matter in the second and third groups compared to the first experimental group. Furthermore, broiler chickens supplemented with a medium dose of phytobiotics revealed a significant difference in both crude protein and fiber when compared to the second experimental group (91.95% and 12.11% vs. 88.98% and 10.07%, respectively). The preslaughter weight of the birds in the phytobiotics supplemented groups was higher than in those fed with the lowest dosage of phytobiotic by 5.47%, and the difference was significant. There were no significant differences in terms of the blood biochemical parameters between the groups. In summary, the inclusion of plant feed additives from sweet chestnut wood extract as a substitute for an antibacterial drug in the diet of broiler chickens did not deteriorate the blood biochemical parameters and improved the intensity of the nutrient digestion process. As a result, it enhanced the quality indicators of the broiler carcass during the entire growth period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antibacterial effect of the previously reported Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst compared with a phytobiotics named, aqueous extract of Persian Oak fruit. The impact of both materials on the expression of the urease gene was checked in two kinds of samples such as clinical and standard Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The gene expression differences were collected by real-time PCR from clinical strains and the standard of H. pylori as well as the MIC and MBC were found to be 3.1 and 0.8 mg/mL, and 6.2 and 1.6 mg/mL, for Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag photocatalyst and Oak fruit Phytobiotics, respectively. Due to the impact of Oak fruit extract on the urease gene of H. pylori, it is possible to use it as a disinfector against this bacterium and the proposed photocatalyst, for efficiently purifying H. pylori bacteria from contaminated environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pig production in Colombia is a dynamic and growing industry of great importance within the country's livestock sector. Among the significant challenges of current pig farming is maintaining intestinal health throughout the various productive stages of the animals, while also being responsible for environmental and public health. The guidelines of the United Nations' One Health program encourage interdisciplinary collaboration for the care of human, animal, and environmental health in support of public health. Therefore, current pig production systems must integrate new production dynamics while maintaining productivity and profitability. Objective: To provide an introduction to the studies and experiences of Promitec Santander regarding the use of different nutraceutical additives to improve the productive health of animals with a focus on replacing food compounds with impacts on public health. Methods: For this work, a process of collection, tabulation, and analysis of results from five experimental and field trials conducted by Promitec Santander on the ability of different biotechnological additives as a Lippia origanoides essential oils to modulate intestinal health and improve productive yields in pigs during different stages of their life cycle was carried out. Results and Discussion: The use of natural biotechnologically based nutraceutical additives has shown the ability to improve productivity and animal health at different moments of the production cycle. This has allowed for pig rearing without the use of growth-promoting antibiotics in both experimental settings and commercial breeding farms, additionally resulting in reductions in mortality and the use of antibiotic treatments in animals. Conclusion: The use of these biotechnological compounds serves as an important tool for farms to adapt to new global trends while maintaining productivity and profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Dietary supplementation with phytobiotics may form part of an alternative strategy to the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in the poultry industry. Essential oils of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) may have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Aims. The aims were to evaluate in vitro characteristics of non-encapsulated and encapsulated rosemary essential oils, and to investigate their effects on growth performance, intestinal morphology and microbial population in broiler chickens. Methods. Essential oil main components were determined, and the minimum inhibitory concentration and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical assay methods were applied for determination of antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, respectively. In an in vivo study of performance, 1-day-old male chicks (n = 420) were randomly assigned to seven dietary treatments with five replicates of 12 birds in a completely randomised experimental design. Treatments were control (basal) diet, and basal diet supplemented with chitosan (encapsulating agent) at 150 mg/kg, encapsulated and non-encapsulated rosemary essential oils at both 150 and 300 mg/kg, and the antibiotic flavophospholipol at 650 mg/kg. Key results. Non-encapsulated essential oil had stronger antioxidant activity than the encapsulated form (IC50 values 0.969 and 1.879 mg/mL, respectively). Non-encapsulated essential oil had greater antimicrobial effect against Escherichia coli, whereas the encapsulated form was more effective against Staphylococcus aureus. During the whole growing period of the in vivo study, supplementation with different levels of non-encapsulated or encapsulated essential oils significantly (P < 0.01) improved bodyweight gain and feed conversation ratio compared with control and antibiotic diets. Furthermore, feed intake in birds receiving essential oils (150 or 300 mg/kg) was lower (P < 0.01) than in other groups. Villus height was increased (P < 0.01) in birds supplemented with essential oils compared with all other treatments. Ileal coliform count was lower in birds supplemented with non-encapsulated essential oil at 150 mg/kg than in birds fed the control diet. Conclusion. Use of non-encapsulated rosemary essential oils at 150 mg/kg is recommended. Encapsulation did not provide additional benefits for most parameters. Implications. Rosemary essential oils offer a potential replacement to conventional antibiotics in poultry nutrition, reducing the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and presence of antibiotic residues in animal tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the demand for alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) increases in food animal production, phytobiotic compounds gain popularity because of their ability to mimic the desirable bioactive properties of AGP. Chestnut tannins (ChT) are one of many phytobiotic compounds used as feed additives, particularly in South America, for broilers because of its favorable antimicrobial and growth promotion capabilities. Although studies have observed the microbiological and immunologic effects of ChT, there is a lack of studies evaluating the metabolic function of ChT. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the cecal metabolic changes induced by ChT inclusion and how they relate to growth promotion. A total of 200 day-of-hatch broiler chicks were separated into 2 feed treatment groups: control and 1% ChT. The ceca from all the chicks in the treatment groups were collected on day 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 after hatch. The cytokine mRNA quantitative RT-PCR was determined using TaqMan gene expression assays for IL-1B, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and interferon gamma quantification. The cytokine expression showed highly significant increased expressions of IL-6 and IL-10 on day 2 and 6, whereas the other proinflammatory cytokines did not have significantly increased expression. The results from the kinome array demonstrated that the ceca from birds fed with 1% ChT had significant (P

Nowadays, the development of phytobiotics, an antibiotic-replacing agent, has attracted a considerable attention as poultry feed additive. The present study aims to develop the microcapsules loaded with a blend of essential oils (thyme, peppermint, savoury, and black pepper), and evaluate its health-promoting activity among the Clostridium perfringens-challenged broiler chickens. Based on the results, the spherical microcapsules containing a blend of thyme, summer savoury, peppermint, and black pepper essential oils had the particle size of 158.6 µm and encapsulation efficiency of 94.2%. The major bioactive compounds were thymol, carvacrol, p-cymene, and γ-terpinene. The microencapsulation of essential oil effectively prevented the release of bioactive phenolic compounds in the upper parts of the GIT. Additionally, it increased the delivery of the phenolic compounds to the lower segments of the GIT in the broiler chickens. The administration of the essential oil-loaded microcapsules (0.5, 1, and 2 kg/ton) in the C. perfringens-infected broiler chickens enhanced growth parameters, total feed intake, FCR, body antioxidant status, ileum morphostructure, and intestinal microbial population. Further, this treatment resulted in regulating the antioxidant and inflammation genes in ileum tissue. Consequently, the essential oil-loaded microcapsules can be considered as a promising phytobiotic against C. perfringens infection in broiler chickens.HIGHLIGHTS The spherical microcapsules containing a blend of EO had the particle size of 158.6 µm and encapsulation efficiency of 94.2%. The microencapsulation of essential oil effectively prevented the release of bioactive phenolic compounds in the upper parts of the GIT. The EO-loaded microcapsules led to an improvement in growth parameters, body antioxidant status, ileum morphostructure, and intestinal microbial population. The microcapsules regulated the antioxidant and inflammation genes in ileum tissue.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate whether different methods of providing eubiotic feed additives to neonatal calves, during the preweaning period, can improve the calves' health, performance, ruminal fermentation, and metabolic status. Forty-four (3-day-old) Holstein-Friesian dairy calves (22 female and 22 male) were divided into four treatment groups for the duration of the 8-week trial. The eubiotic feed additive consisted of a combination of probiotic Lactobacillus spp. (multiple-strains at a dose of 250 mg/calf/day) and phytobiotics containing rosmarinic acid, as the main bioactive compound (at a dose of 50 mg/calf/day). The groups were named: CON (control, without eubiotic in either the milk replacer or the starter feed), MR (eubiotic in the milk replacer), SF (eubiotic in the starter feed), MRS (eubiotic in both the milk replacer and the starter feed). The individual intake of starter feed and the fecal scores were measured daily, and body weight and biometric measurements were taken weekly until calves were 56 days of age. Blood samples were collected on day 3 and then every 14 days to determine concentrations of insulin-like-growthfactor-I, ß-hydroxybutyrate, non-esterified fatty acids, and blood urea nitrogen. Ruminal fluid was collected on days 28 and 56 for short-chain fatty acids, NH3-N, and pH measurements. Results: The body weight of the calves of the MR treatment group was higher compared to all other groups on days 28 and 56. Including the eubiotic feed additive in the milk replacer increased average daily gain, starter intake, and total dry matter intake from day 29 to day 56 and the overall experimental period compared to the CON group. The calves with MR treatment had lower fecal scores from days 3 to 28, a number of parasite oocysts/cysts per gram of feces on day 28, and the occurrences of fecal consistency scores of 3 (mild diarrhea) and 4 (severe diarrhea) were 3.2 and 3.0 times lower, respectively, compared with the CON group. The MR group had higher ruminal concentrations of short-chain-fatty-acids, propionate, and butyrate on day 56 than the CON group. Adding eubiotics into milk replacer resulted in the highest concentrations of blood insulin-like-growth-factor-I and ß-hydroxybutyrate from days 29 to 56 and the overall experimental period. Conclusion: The addition of eubiotic feed additives into the milk replacer can improve health, performance, ruminal fermentation, and biochemical blood indices in dairy calves during the preweaning period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the effect of dietary oregano (Origanum vulgare) essential oil (EO) on the growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, intestinal histomorphology, and intestinal microbiota of the Black Sea salmon juvenile (Salmo labrax). Fish were fed diets different levels of oregano EO such as 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg kg−1. For this purpose, a total of 675 fish were distributed randomly in triplicate into 5 experiment groups in 15 experiment tanks. Fish with average initial weights of 3.52±0.01 g were fed by hand at 3% of live weight for 90 days. At the end of the study, feeding with oregano EO supplementation did not significantly affect the growth performance of fish. Except for pepsin, there were no significant differences in the activity of digestive enzymes among the control and oregano EO groups. Besides, oregano EO at the doses of 50 or 400 mg kg−1 may have the potential to increase the surface area required for digestion by increasing intestinal villi length. Moreover, all doses of oregano EO showed antimicrobial properties by decreasing the count of lactic acid bacteria in the intestine. Supplementation with 100 and 200 mg kg−1 oregano EO in diets decreased the total coliform, Escherichia coli and lactic acid bacteria counts when compared to the control group. The results showed that oregano EO may positively affect digestion and absorption without adverse effects on the growth performance of Black Sea salmon juvenile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytobiotic with secondary metabolites and with vitamin C, elaborated with Emblica officinalis and Ocimum sanctum (polyherbal vitamin C), was evaluated for milk production, reproductive performance, cytokines, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in first calving Holstein cows under heat stress conditions. Two hundred primiparous cows with 20 ± 6 days in milk (initial body weight 521 ± 70.0 kg) were fed a basal diet (19.40% CP; 1.43 Mcal/kg Nel dry matter (DM)) and randomly assigned to one of the treatments: 0 or 20 g/d of the polyherbal vitamin C was integrated daily into the diet with the fresh total mixed ration directly in the feeder. The experiment lasted 131 days and measurements of production were made daily and milk composition every 30 days. Pregnancy was recorded at the first service and accumulated in the experimental period. Results showed that the production and composition of milk were not affected by the supplementation with polyherbal vitamin C, however, the accumulated gestation rate improved from 45.74 to 59.34% (P = 0.06), particularly that of the first service (20.21 to 34.06%; P = 0.03). Mastitis problems were reduced from 21.28 to 12.09% (P = 0.09). polyherbal vitamin C did not modify the production of IL-1β, while the serum levels of IL-6 decreased significantly (P <0.001) compared to the unsupplemtented cows. All these results indicate that the polyherbal vitamin C can improve the gestation rate of Holstein dairy cattle and have beneficial health effects by reducing mastitis problems. Also, polyherbal vitamin C can exert an anti-inflammatory effect by lowering IL-6 levels and reducing ROS production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practice of layer poultry farming and commercial egg production relies on the optimal use and improvement of the welfare and genetically determined functional abilities of laying hens, their efficient intake of feed and its components, adaptation to housing conditions and resistance to infectious diseases including salmonellosis. Previous studies were focussed on relationships of chicken performance and resistance with the expression profiles of individual genes involved in metabolic processes and immune system, or with genetic markers that can be closely associated with these processes in chickens. In this study, mathematical models of coherent changes in laying hens were developed for the expression of eight genes involved in immunity and metabolism, on the one hand, and biochemical and immunological blood parameters, on the other hand, in response to Salmonella infection and administration of a phytobiotic Intebio. The proposed modelling approach can be a further basis for an in-depth research of the relationship between the gene expression, functional state and welfare of poultry, impact of pathogenic microorganisms and use of immunomodulatory drugs.HIGHLIGHTS Improved egg production and resistance rely on hens’ potential in gene expression and metabolism. We developed mathematical models for coherent responses of hens’ gene expression and blood indices to Salmonella infection and phytobiotic intake. This approach can be used for further studying relationship between gene expression, functional state, impact of pathogens and antimicrobial drugs.

Because of concerns over the use of antibiotics in poultry feed, this study was designed to determine the effectiveness of phytobiotic supplementation as an alternative to antibiotic use based on growth performance and meat characteristics of broilers exposed to Salmonella typhimurium. The effects of an antibiotic and 3 phytobiotic feed additives (PFA), Mix-Oil Mint (MOmint), Mix-Oil Liquid (MOliq), and Sangrovit Extra (Sangext), were compared. At day of age, 280 Ross chicks were randomly allocated into 6 treatments. At 15 d, all chicks except negative control were exposed to S. typhimurium. The offered 6 diets were as follows: T1, negative control; T2, infected with S. typhimurium; T3, infected + avilamycin (0.1 g/kg); T4, infected + MOmint (0.2 g/kg); T5, infected + plant extract in liquid form MOliq (0.25 mL/L); and T6, infected + Sangext (0.15 g/kg). During the cumulative starter period, PFA improved performance over that of the control, and the food conversion ratio (FCR) was lower for T3 and T5 compared with T1 (P 0.05) in T2 and T5 compared with that in T1 and T4. Alanine transaminase concentration decreased significantly (P

Background and Aim: The current phytobiotic industry is struggling to determine a proper sterilization method for an herbal formula that comprises multiple plant extracts. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of two sterilization methods of herbal formula on phytochemical compounds and antibacterial activity against mastitis-causing bacterial isolates. Materials and Methods: The herbal formula comprised the extracts of Piper betle leaves, Curcuma domestica, and Curcuma zanthorriza. We applied two sterilization methods – sterilization using 0.45 μM syringe filter and sterilization using an autoclave at 121°C for 15 min. After sterilization, we measured phytochemical contents (phenol and flavonoid) of the herbal formula. Using the disk diffusion method, the antibacterial susceptibility test of the sterilized herbal formula against mastitis-causing bacterial isolates was conducted. Tetracycline, erythromycin, and penicillin – common antibiotics for mastitis therapy in dairy farms – were used as standard antibiotics. Results: Compared with autoclave sterilization, syringe filter sterilization resulted in less (p

ABSTRACT: Globally, several studies have investigated the utilization and efficacy of promising medicinal herbal plants to enhance livestock and poultry production. The most commonly investigated phytobiotics in broiler ration were oregano, garlic, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, hot red pepper (HRP), and sage. Phytobiotics are classified on the basis of the medicinal properties of plants, their essential oil extracts, and their bioactive compounds. The majority of bioactive compounds in plants are secondary metabolites, such as terpenoids, phenolic, glycosides, and alkaloids. The composition and concentrations of these bioactive constitutes vary according to their biological factors and manufacturing and storage conditions. Furthermore, HRP is one of the most important and widely used spices in the human diet. Capsicum annum, that is, HRP, is a species of the plant genus Capsicum (pepper), which is a species native to southern North America and northern South America and is widely grown and utilized for its fresh or cooked fruits. Moreover, these fruits may be used as dried powders or processed forms of oleoresins. Researches have proven that C. annuum is the only plant that produces the alkaloid capsaicinoids. Approximately 48% of its active substances are capsaicin (8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonemide), the main active compound responsible for the intense effects of HRP varieties and the main component inducing the hot flavor. This review aimed to highlight the effects of HRP as a phytobiotic in broiler nutrition and its mode of action as a possible alternative to antibiotics and clarify its impact on broiler and layer productivity.

The objective of this research was to develop the nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic rich fraction from Achillea millefolium (A. millefolium) and to investigate its antibacterial and health-promoting activities in mice challenged by pathogenic foodborne Campylobacter jejuni. The A. millefolium was extracted and the ethyl acetate fraction was found to be the phenolic-rich fraction (PRF) containing 14.72 ± 2.39 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g dry weight (DM). Base on the results, the synthesized nanoliposome-loaded PRF (PRF-NLs) with the size of 187.2 nm exhibited homogeneous dispersion (PDI 0.213) and moderate stability behavior in colloidal dispersions (Zeta potential −37.45). The non-encapsulated PRF and PRF-NLs were gavaged orally in the mice for 28 days, and mice were challenged with C. jejuni on day 21. The results indicated that the dietary supplementation of non-encapsulated PRF and PRF-NLs significantly (p < 0.05) improved the average daily weight gain, food intake, liver function, antioxidant status, and morphostructural characteristics of the ileum. However, the PRF-NLs appeared to be more potent as compared to non-encapsulated PRF. The higher biological activity of PRF-NLs could be associated with the higher intestinal solubility and absorption of nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF. Thereby, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could be considered as a natural antibiotic alternative called phytobiotic to prevent intestinal infection caused by enteropathogenic C. jejuni.

Our research purpose was to study the effect of the inclusion of a combination of phytobiotics in the form of dry Fucus vesiculosus grits (FG) and a mineral adsorbent from the heat-treated mineral shungite (TMS) on milk productivity, nutrient digestibility, and biochemical parameters of the Suksun dairy cows. A total of 80 dry-hardy cows of the Suksun breed were divided into four groups (20 heads each), balanced primarily by breed, age, body weight, body condition score, and indicators of milk yield for the previous lactation. The selected cows were with an average live body weight of 512.0 ± 1.28 kg, BCS 3.0–3.5, and parities of 6250 kg milk. The control group (CON) were fed the basic ration only; the second (TMS), third (FG), and fourth (TMS + FG) groups were fed the basic ration provided by 50 g of the mineral adsorbent from heat-treated shungite, 100 g of Fucus grits (Fucus vesiculosus), 50 g of the mineral adsorbent from heat-treated shungite, and 100 g of dry grits from Fucus vesiculosus, respectively. The total protein content in milk was significantly higher in the group receiving Fucus vesiculosus by 0.05% and the group receiving a combination of mineral adsorbent and Fucus vesiculosus by 0.03%. The percentage of milk fat content recorded the highest significant value in (TMS) group when compared to the control and represented (4.37 vs. 3.95). The group of cows that received (TMS + FG) revealed a significant difference in the digestibility of both ether extract and crude fiber when compared to the control group and represented (54.74 vs. 51.71 and 60.68 vs. 55.15%), respectively. The cows supplemented with a mineral adsorbent or a combination of mineral adsorbent and Fucus vesiculosus revealed a significant difference in the digestibility of ether extract and crude fiber in the group receiving TMS + FG by 3.0% (p < 0.05) and 5.5% (p < 0.05), respectively. The intake of nitrogen with the diet increased in (FG) and (TMS + FG) groups by 11.3 g (p < 0.05) and 13.4 g (p < 0.05) of nitrogen. There was an increase (p < 0.05) in the concentration of rumen ammonia in the control group compared to the other groups. The glucose content of those cows that received FG and TMS + FG combination increased (p < 0.05) by 0.76 mmol/L and 0.90 mmol/l in relation to the control group. The globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, and the level of triglycerides revealed a significant difference between the different experimental groups. In brief, the inclusion of a combination of phytobiotics in the form of dry Fucus vesiculosus grits and a mineral adsorbent from the heat-treated mineral shungite in Suksun dairy cows’ diets improved milk composition, digestibility of nutrients, utilization of nitrogen, and did not cause deleterious effects on blood biochemical indicators.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of commercial plant extract mixture added to laying quail rations on performance, egg quality, plasma antioxidant and blood biochemical parameters. In this experiment, 160 Japanese quails aged twelve weeks were equally divided into four groups of 40 (five replicates of 8 quails each). The study included a control and three treatment groups. The treatment groups were as follows: (1) 100 mg/kg aromatic plant extract mixture-group 1; (2) 150 mg/kg aromatic plant extract mixture-group 2 (3) 200 mg/kg aromatic plant extract mixture-group 3, respectively. When examined the egg parameters at the end of the study, significant differences (P<0.05) were found in the parameters of egg weight, Haugh unit (HU), albumen index, egg yolk color and eggshell thickness. Egg weight and eggshell thickness values were measured the highest (P<0.05) in group 1. HU, egg yellow color and albumen index values were found significantly higher (P<0.05) in all experimental groups compared to the control group. Significant differences (P<0.05) were determined in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) values of plasma antioxidant parameters in the study. In the study, High density lipoprotein (HDL) value, one of the blood (plasma) parameters, was found to be higher (P< 0.001) in the experimental groups. Consequently, we can say that the addition of herbal extract mixture to quail diets increases egg quality and has a positive effect on cholesterol and plasma antioxidant parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This research was performed to evaluate the antibacterial and health-promoting potentials of nanoliposome-encapsulated phenolic-rich fraction (PRF) from Alcea rosea leaves, as a dietary phytobiotic, in mice as challenged by enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli; O157: H7). Method: The PEF was encapsulated in nanoliposomes (PEF-NLs), and the phenolic profiling of PEF-NLs was confirmed by HPLC. Next, 40 white male balb/c mice were assigned to four treatment groups to assess the antibacterial potential of PEF-NLs by measuring the blood parameters and the liver’s lipid peroxidation in the mice as a result of the infection caused by E. coli. Finally, the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were determined in the miceʼs ileum tissues. A real-time PCR was used to analyze the relative fold changes in the population of E. coli in the ileum. Results: The overall results demonstrated that the nanoliposome-loaded PRF contained gallic acid, salicylic acid, pyrogallol, cinnamic acid, catechin, naringin, and ferulic acid. The E. coli intervention impaired the mice's weight gain, food intake, liver enzymes, lipid peroxidation, and the ileum’s morphometric characteristics. The challenge also upregulated the inflammatory genes (COX2, iNOS), downregulated the antioxidant-related genes (SOD and GPx), and increased the population of E. coli in the ileum. The dietary inclusion of the nonencapsulated PRF and the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF, at the concentration of 10 mg TPC/kg BW/day, improved these parameters. However, compared to nonencapsulated PRF, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF appeared to be more effective in improving the health parameters in mice. Conclusion: As a promising phytobiotic, the nanoliposome-encapsulated PRF could play a critical role against the E. coli infection in mice probably due to the increase in the higher intestinal solubility, bioavailability, and absorption of phenolic compounds encapsulated in the nanoliposome carrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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