Brain-microbiota connection, enhancing performance

Gut health is essential for animal production. Bacteria present in the gut are closely linked to other systems, such as the immune system and the brain. The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a bidirectional homeostatic axis. It is now recognised that a dysfunction of this axis can lead to pathogenesis.

This symbiotic relation between host and bacteria is at the origin of an overall balance. When this balance is not optimal, modulation of stress response, behaviour and immunity can be altered. Alteration of immunity is likely to lead to sickness (lower innate and adaptive immune response, and increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines in plasma). Microflora also impacts the brain by controlling the concentration of various neurotransmitters, affecting behaviour.

The ‘Better-Being’ concept

In modern farming, dysbiosis (unbalanced microbiota) may occur at different stages of production. It can be caused by:

• farm management
• feed transitions
• psychological or physical stress
• sickness
• antibiotics
• etc.

When an animal faces dysbiosis, restoring the optimal gut health status is possible within 3 weeks. During this time, the economic loss will not be recovered. Obviously, the use of preventive methods to maintain digestive tract homeostasis is a key driver for performance.

Phodé considers ‘Better-Being’ in animal farming as the cornerstone for reaching optimum performance. The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a unique system called the ‘cerebral ecosystem’. Based on this original approach, Phodé offers specific and innovative solutions adapted to modern farming expectations. Oleobiotec is an exclusive blend of essential oils and spice extracts designed to optimise transmission of the ‘Better-being’ message through the microbiota-brain connection.

Figure 1 – Brain-microbiota connection.

Click on image to enlarge.

A naturally inspired solution

Essential oils and spices are widely known in human medicine and are also used in animal medicine. They regulate microflora and stimulate the secretion of enzymes, gastric juices and motility of the gut.

• Firstly, the action of an essential oil depends on its chemotype defined by nature: the plant, the area where it was grown, the season and other factors. Phodé draws on 20 years of expertise to carefully select active ingredients and create unique solutions. Phodé guarantees consistent and effective solutions, thanks to a sourcing commitment and strict quality standards.
• Secondly, the company’s expertise and know-how foster enhanced efficacy, combining natural active compounds in order to benefit from their synergistic effects. Each species has its own gut microbiota. Specific products were thus created to offer solutions for poultry, swine and ruminants.

Proven efficacy

For the last 10 years, over 30 trials have been conducted with scientific partners, commercial partners and customers around the world. Experiments in dairy show an improvement in milk yield and milk quality, especially in somatic cell count. The product regulates ruminal microflora, preventing drastic shifts which can cause metabolic disorders. A balanced microbiota helps to maintain normal behaviour (feeding, resting, ruminating, etc.).

Oleobiotec’s original mode of action of balancing the microbiota will have a positive effect on the whole cerebral ecosystem, allowing animals to reach their potential through ‘Better-Being’. Ongoing research on plant extracts promise novel solutions in the future to combine animal performance and sustainability.

References available on request