Metabolomic and metagenomic insights into WFBG-mediated regulation of gut microbiota and metabolism in broilers

ABSTRACT:

The steady state of gut microbiota is a key factor in regulating the growth of broilers. The regulatory role of wet-fermented brewer's grains (WFBG) in broiler gut development and microbiota is still elusive. In this study, non-targeted metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing analysis were used to investigate the effects of WFBG supplementation on serum metabolites and gut microbiota in 42-day-old broilers. Serum metabolomic analysis identified 546 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs), with GO and KEGG enrichment analyses showing that specific DEMs were enriched in intestinal development-related pathways, including phenylalanine, tyrosine, tryptophan biosynthesis, and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed significant intergroup differences in the relative abundances of Ligilactobacillus, Olsenella, Erysipelatoclostridium, and Blautia at the genus level in broiler gut microbiota between the control and WFBG groups. Integrative analysis of 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics demonstrated that bacterial genera including Streptococcus and Proteus were positively correlated with N6,N6-dimethyllysine and quercetin, while negatively associated with 18 DEMs, such as 4-methylbenzenesulfonic acid and deoxycholic acid derivatives. Furthermore, we identified potential biomarkers associated with intestinal development induced by 20% WFBG supplementation. Our findings suggest that the maximum recommended inclusion level of WFBG in broiler feed should not exceed 20%. This study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying fiber utilization and intestinal maturation in broilers.

INSTRUMENT(S): Liquid Chromatography MS - positive - hilic, Liquid Chromatography MS - negative - hilic

PROVIDER: MTBLS13352 | MetaboLights | 2025-12-06

REPOSITORIES: MetaboLights