Recombinant plectasin elicits similar improvements in the performance and intestinal mucosa growth and activity in weaned pigs as an antibiotic

This study was conducted to determine the effects of the recombinant plectasin (Ple) on growth performance and intestinal health in weaned pigs. Twenty-four weaned pigs were randomly assigned to one of four treatments, including a corn-soybean basal diet (Con), the basal diet supplemented with antibiotics (60 mg/kg colistin sulfate, Ant), probiotics (Bacillus subtilis ≥109 CFU/g, Pro) and recombinant plectasin (60 mg/kg, Ple). The study lasted 21 d. Results showed that dietary supplementation with antibiotics and Ple had positive effects on the average daily feed intake (ADFI) and body-weight gain (ADG) (P < 0.05). Compared with the Con, the ratio of feed to gain (F/G) and diarrhea rate in both groups were significantly reduced. Pigs fed the diets containing antibiotics and Ple had a higher villus height (P < 0.05) and a higher disaccharidase activity (P < 0.05) in small intestinal mucosa. Ple supplementation also increased the abundance of Bifidobacterium in the ileum (P < 0.05). Interestingly, Ple elevated the absoption of xylose (P < 0.05) and the expression levels of tight junction protein CLDN1 and ZO-1 (P < 0.05) in the small intestinal mucosa. The results suggest Ple may be an effective alternative to antibiotics for the pork industry.