Modulation of Canine Gut Microbiota by Prebiotic and Probiotic Supplements: A Long-Term In Vitro Study Using a Novel Colonic Fermentation Model

Overview

Journal Animals (Basel)

Date 2024 Nov 27

PMID 39595394

Authors

Alessandro Gramenzi

Luana Clerico

Benedetta Bela

Meri Di Leonardo

Isa Fusaro

Giulia Pignataro

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in dogs' health, influencing immune function, digestion, and protection against pathogens. This study evaluates the effects of three canine dietary supplements-Microbiotal (prebiotic), (probiotic), and a combination of both-on the gut microbiota composition of a healthy canine donor using an in vitro colonic fermentation model. The SCIME™ platform, adapted to simulate the canine gastrointestinal tract, was used to monitor microbial shifts in the luminal and mucosal environments of the proximal and distal colon over a 2-week treatment period. The microbial communities were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing to assess changes at various taxonomic levels. Alpha- and beta-diversity indices were calculated, while LEfSe and treeclimbR were employed to identify taxa-driving microbial shifts. Results indicated that all treatments led to significant modulations in key microbial groups, with enrichment of , , , and . These changes suggest improved saccharolytic fermentation and butyrate production, particularly when prebiotics and probiotics were co-administered. This study highlights the promising benefits of combined prebiotic and probiotic supplementation in promoting gut health and microbial diversity, providing a basis for future studies targeting the metabolic activity of the gut microbiota using the same supplements and technology.

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