AUTHOR=Chai Jianmin , Liu Zeyue , Wu Jun , Kang Yuan , Abdelsattar Mahmoud M. , Zhao Wei , Wang Shiqin , Yang Shuli , Deng Feilong , Li Ying , Zhuang Yimin , Zhang Naifeng TITLE=Dietary β-hydroxybutyric acid improves the growth performance of young ruminants based on rumen microbiota and volatile fatty acid biosynthesis JOURNAL=Frontiers in Microbiology VOLUME=14 YEAR=2024 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1296116 DOI=10.3389/fmicb.2023.1296116 ISSN=1664-302X ABSTRACT=Introduction

The ketone body β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB) plays critical roles in cellular proliferation and metabolic fuel utilization; however, its effects on the rumen microbiota remain unknown.

Methods

Here, three doses of BHB (low, medium, and high) were supplemented to early-weaned goat kids.

Results

Compared with controls, the beneficial effects of BHB on growth and rumen development were observed in goats at 90 days of age (d). The low dose of dietary BHB increased the concentration of rumen acetate, propionate, and butyrate on d90. The sequencing results of the rumen microbiota revealed marked shifts in rumen microbial community structure after early-weaned goat kids consumed BHB for 2 months. The signature bacterial ASVs for each treatment were identified and were the main drivers contributing to microbial interactions in the rumen. The bacteria associated with rumen weight were also correlated with body weight. Some classified bacterial signatures, including Prevotella, Olsenella umbonate, and Roseburia faecis, were related to rumen volatile fatty acids and host development.

Conclusion

Overall, dietary BHB altered rumen microbiota and environments in young goats, which contributed to rumen development and growth.