To assess the potential of grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSP) to mitigate intestinal damage in weaned pigs administered diquat, hypothesizing that GSP will improve intestinal health.
Key Findings:
GSP reduced serum urea levels (P < 0.05) and increased total superoxide dismutase activity (P < 0.05) in diquat-challenged pigs.
GSP enhanced ileal villi height (P < 0.05) and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (P < 0.05) in the small intestine.
GSP down-regulated expression levels of Caspase-3, Caspase-8, and Caspase-9 (P < 0.05), while up-regulating Claudin-1 and zonula occludens-1 (P < 0.05).
GSP supplementation increased cecal populations of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacillus (P < 0.05) in diquat-challenged pigs.
Interpretation:
GSP has the potential to mitigate diquat-induced intestinal mucosal damage, likely through enhancing antioxidant capacity and improving intestinal microbiota, suggesting avenues for future research.
Limitations:
The study was limited to a specific age and breed of pigs, which may affect generalizability; further studies should include diverse populations.
The long-term effects of GSP supplementation were not assessed, indicating a need for future research on chronic impacts.
Conclusion:
GSP supplementation may be beneficial in reducing oxidative stress-induced intestinal damage in weaned pigs, highlighting its potential as a feed additive.
