Omics technology benefits feed additive research

Think of the prevalence and transmission of antibiotic resistance, as well as the mode of action of antibiotics and feed additives. This is important as the animal production industry is looking at ways to maintaining high performing, healthy and profitable animals while at the same time using fewer or no antibiotics.

Omics technologies to shed new light

“Novel methods to study antibiotic resistance genes have been developed, enhanced by emerging Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies’, stated Dr Mahdi Ghanbari, Scientist at Biomin Research Center. “By using RNA sequencing, we have confirmed that beyond their antimicrobial effect, AGPs interact with the host tissue and modulate the anti-inflammatory response. A more sustainable method of growth promotion would, for example, modulate the same anti-inflammatory response without contributing to antibiotic resistance’, added Dr Bertrand Grenier, Scientist at Biomin Research Center.

Effect on feed additive research

The effects of novel feed additives contribute to a preventive approach that reduces the need for antimicrobials. “Biomin scientists and researchers have evaluated the effects of organic acids-based products, phytogenics and synbiotics on antibiotic resistant bacteria and genes in recent years,” explained Nataliya Roth, Development Scientist at Biomin. “Several scientific trials provide the confirmation that replacing antibiotics by novel feed additives provide similar levels of performance while reducing the prevalence of antibiotic resistance”, Ms Roth concluded.

Upcoming discussion

These experts and more will delve into further detail on the application of omics technologies and the understanding of antibiotic resistance at the Gut Performance Session of the 2018 World Nutrition Forum in Cape Town, South Africa from 3 to 5 October, 2018. First held in Salzburg in 2004, the World Nutrition Forum hosted by Biomin has become a great opportunity for industry practitioners to share ideas and exchange knowledge.