Dietary supplementation with sodium isobutyrate enhances growth performance and colonic barrier function in weaned piglets via microbiota-metabolite-host interactions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Weaning-induced diarrhoea and growth retardation in piglets are associated with impaired intestinal barrier function and decreased levels of colonic short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Although SCFA supplementation has been proposed to mitigate these issues, the efficacy and optimal dosage of sodium isobutyrate remain unclear.

Results

We investigated the effects of sodium isobutyrate supplementation (500, 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 mg/kg diet) on weaned piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire, 28 d of age; n = 8). After a 28-d feeding trial, supplementation at 500-2,000 mg/kg significantly improved average daily gain and feed efficiency and reduced diarrhoea frequency, with maximal benefits observed at 1,000 mg/kg (P < 0.0001). Additionally, 500-1,000 mg/kg sodium isobuty

SUBMITTER: Fang X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12683800 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature