AUTHOR=Tang Xiaopeng , Zeng Yan , Xiong Kangning , Zhong Jinfeng 

TITLE=Bacillus spp. as potential probiotics: promoting piglet growth by improving intestinal health

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Veterinary Science

VOLUME=11

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1429233

DOI=10.3389/fvets.2024.1429233

ISSN=2297-1769

ABSTRACT=<p>The application of <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. as probiotics in the swine industry, particularly for piglet production, has garnered significant attention in recent years. This review aimed to summarized the role and mechanisms of <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. in promoting growth and maintaining gut health in piglets. <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. can enhance intestinal barrier function by promoting the proliferation and repair of intestinal epithelial cells and increasing mucosal barrier integrity, thereby reducing the risk of pathogenic microbial invasion. Additionally, <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. can activate the intestinal immune system of piglets, thereby enhancing the body’s resistance to diseases. Moreover, <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. can optimize the gut microbial community structure, enhance the activity of beneficial bacteria such as <italic>Lactobacillus</italic>, and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria such as <italic>Escherichia coli</italic>, ultimately promoting piglet growth performance and improving feed efficiency. <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. has advantages as well as challenges as an animal probiotic, and safety evaluation should be conducted when using the newly isolated <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. This review provides a scientific basis for the application of <italic>Bacillus</italic> spp. in modern piglet production, highlighting their potential in improving the efficiency of livestock production and animal welfare.</p>