Dietary fiber consumption by sows during pregnancy has effects on gut microbial composition and immunity of offspring

Context Piglets encounter numerous challenges post-birth, and positive maternal influences can significantly aid their survival. Aims This study aimed to investigate the potential impact of dietary fiber (DF) consumption during pregnancy on the establishment of colonic flora and immunity in offspring. Methods Sixty-eight multiparous sows were randomly assigned to either a control diet lacking fiber sources or a diet supplemented with a fiber mixture. The study evaluated the developmental status, intestinal microecology, and immune indices, including the expression of Toll-like receptors and nuclear factor kappa-B, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukins 6 and 10, and interferon γ, as well as the concentrations of complement components 3 and 4, and immunoglobulins G and M in the offspring. Key results The findings revealed a significant reduction in Toll-like receptor 4 and nuclear factor kappa-B messenger RNA levels in the colon and tumor necrosis factor α levels in the serum of 21-day-weaned piglets from the fiber group, indicating a decrease in inflammation. Moreover, there was a notable increase in the abundance of Roseburia and Lactobacillus in the colons of weaned piglets from the fiber-supplemented group, whereas Odoribacter showed a substantial decrease. This indicates that sows transfer beneficial microorganisms to their piglets, and fiber supplementation further enhances these positive microbial changes. Conclusion This study highlights the positive impact on the microbiota profile and immunity of piglets of fiber supplementation in sow diets during pregnancy, using a 3% purified fiber mixture. These findings hold implications for the enhanced development of weaned piglets, providing valuable theoretical support.