Microbiome describes the community of microorganisms that live on the skin and mucosal surfaces of animals. Kansas State University researchers are studying the microbiome in a PRRS-endemic swineherd. As our industry seeks new alternatives to antibiotics, the microbiome holds potential for discovery. The gut microbiome houses the majority of these microorganisms and is critical for proper immune development and nutrient digestion.
Source: National Hog Farmer, December 5, 2016.
Two significantly different microbiome characteristics were detected between the two study outcomes. First, best clinical outcome pigs had increased microbial family diversity. Second, best clinical outcome pigs had a higher prevalence of non-pathogenic Escherichia coli. This work provides the first evidence that the microbiome plays a role in outcome following co-infection with two common viral respiratory pathogens in swine. Moreover, this work suggests that the microbiome may serve as a valuable tool to improve the response to polymicrobial infections in growing pigs.
INSIGHTS: The State of Kansas National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility Fund was involved in providing some of the funding for this study. The KC Animal Health Corridor worked hard to get the National Bio and Agro-Defense placed in the Corridor.