In recent years, the use of drugs as feed additives has played a significant role in disease prevention, treatment, and growth promotion in animal farming. However, the overuse or misuse of synthetic chemical drugs in feed can lead to serious negative consequences for the development of the feed and aquaculture industries, as well as for the safety of livestock and poultry products. For instance, the widespread use of antibiotics, when administered in sub-therapeutic doses over a long period, can increase the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in animals, weaken their immune systems, and reduce the quality of antigens. To address these issues, experts have developed several new feed additives aimed at enhancing the immune system of animals, such as probiotics, prebiotics (oligosaccharides), antimicrobial peptides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and traditional Chinese herbal medicines.
**First, probiotics**
Probiotics work by introducing beneficial live bacteria into the digestive tract, where they compete with harmful pathogens, boost the animal’s immunity, and help maintain a balanced gut microbiome. By promoting a healthy intestinal environment, probiotics can prevent diseases and support growth. These microorganisms also enhance immune function by stimulating the production of antibodies and increasing the activity of immune cells like macrophages and interferon. However, despite their benefits, probiotics are living organisms and face challenges such as stability, viability, and consistent colonization in the gut.
**Second, oligosaccharides**
Functional oligosaccharides, including mannan-oligosaccharides, fructo-oligosaccharides, and xylo-oligosaccharides, offer health benefits such as improving gut flora balance and boosting immunity. They are not digested by the animal but instead prevent harmful bacteria from attaching to the intestinal lining, thus reducing infection risks and helping eliminate pathogens. Oligosaccharides are stable under various conditions, making them a more reliable alternative to live bacterial supplements. They also avoid the issue of antibiotic resistance and do not leave harmful residues. However, their high production costs and optimal dosing requirements for different species remain areas for further research.
**Third, antimicrobial peptides**
Antimicrobial peptides are naturally occurring substances that possess broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and even protozoa. These peptides are part of the innate immune system and play a crucial role in non-specific immune responses. Their mechanism involves disrupting microbial membranes through physical and chemical interactions, ultimately leading to cell death. Lactoferrin-derived peptides, in particular, are gaining attention as safe and effective alternatives to antibiotics. However, challenges in large-scale production and application still limit their widespread use.
**Fourth, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)**
Polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, are essential components of functional fatty acids and play a key role in regulating immune function. They influence lymphocyte proliferation, cytokine production, and antibody synthesis, thereby supporting overall immune health. Common types include alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are vital for maintaining cellular structure and function, especially in the nervous and immune systems.
**Fifth, Chinese herbal medicine**
Traditional Chinese herbs contain a variety of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, polysaccharides, terpenoids, and volatile oils. These substances can directly inhibit bacterial growth, modulate immune responses, and improve metabolic functions. For example, alkaloids enhance immune function by stimulating macrophage activity, while flavonoids regulate immune cells like lymphocytes and natural killer cells. Studies have shown that certain herbal formulations have been effective in controlling diseases in livestock, making them a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics.
In conclusion, the development and use of these natural feed additives provide a safer and more sustainable approach to improving animal health and productivity. As research continues, these alternatives may gradually replace antibiotics and synthetic drugs, contributing to a healthier and more resilient agricultural system.
Black Gray Shingle Tile,Black Gray Tile
Shandong Yahong New Materials Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.okrooftile.com