These especially target pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria, while Tylosin, the third most used AGP, has a broad spectrum of activity against Gram-positive organisms and a limited range of Gram-negative organisms (World Organisation for Animal Health, 2020).
Glycerides are powerful alternatives It is suggested that monolaurin, one of the most studied glycerides, can replace frequently used AGPs in pig and poultry farming. Based on the results of the Brazilian study of Fortuoso and colleagues (2019) monolaurin in the diet of broilers showed potent antimicrobial effects and a growth promoting capacity. A better overall intestinal health allows young broilers to efficient absorb nutrients and to achieve a higher end weight. Also, its potent anti-inflammatory action is expected to play a significant role. Researchers expect monolaurin to reduce the release of macrophages producing pro-inflammatory cytokines. These cytokines cause tissues damage when produced in excess and increase the energy expenditure, causing a lower feed efficiency in farm animals.
What exactly are these glycerides? Glycerides are esters produced from glycerol and fatty acids by the dedicated production process of FRAmelco. Alpha- monoglycerides consist of one fatty acid attached to the first position of the glycerol backbone, e.g. lauric acid plus glycerol gives alpha-monolaurin. This unique molecular structure is responsible for their powerful anti-pathogenic activity and is known to be much stronger compared to the corresponding free fatty acids. Furthermore, they are pH independent and are therefore able to be active in the entire gastro-intestinal tract.
No bacterial resistance against glycerides Already in 1996 research confirmed that monocaprin and monolaurin did not develop resistance to Helicobacter pylori strains, while it did against antibiotics metronidazole and tetracycline. In 2012 Schlievert and Peterson also showed that over the entire year of testing, no alpha-monolaurin resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains were obtained. The multiple modes of action are hypothesised to be the reason why it is hard for bacteria to mutate and become resistant to alpha-monoglycerides.
Generating evidence from practice FRAmelco put science to the test by doing research at commercial broiler farms. One experiment showed a promising alternative to a classic antibiotic programme from hatchery until finish. This alternative relied on a combination of glycerides of lauric acid and tributyrin in the feed, and the supplementation of short chain fatty acid glycerides via drinking water. A key part of this strategies’ preventive character is that glyceride concentrations are gradually
reduced over time. This allows the animal’s immune system to build up to its maximal potential at an early age, so it can rely on it later in life. This specific glyceride-programme allowed to replace antibiotics completely maintaining the same excellent results in animal performance and survival. In a second trial, the effects from using Zinc Bacitracin and a product based on monolaurin, FRA C12, were compared. Zinc Bacitracin and FRA C12 both improved body weight gain. When looking at the individual effects, FRA C12 had a bigger impact on body weight compared to Zinc Bacitracin, substantiated by a better feed efficiency. A look at the impact on villi height simply explains this difference. Monolaurin supported the development of a higher absorption surface of the gut wall, whereas a prolonged administration of antibiotics erodes the gut morphology. This leaves the animal with a reduced absorption capacity for nutrients, requiring it to eat more to maximise its growth. Under the conditions of this trial, it was possible to completely replace the need for antibiotics by using monolaurin in a preventive way.
Therapeutic tool It can be concluded that antibiotics are necessary as curative tool to treat infections and diseases. As antibiotic resistance is a still topic of concern, glycerides could play a crucial role in the strategy to reduce and replace AGPs as these glycerides control pathogens, modulate the immune response, and increase intestinal health.
▶ ANTIBIOTIC REDUCTION | DECEMBER 2021 17
Glycerides could play a crucial role in the strategy to reduce and replace AGPs.
PHOTO: FRAMELCO
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