Effects of tributyrin on gut microbiota shifts related to performances of weaning piglets

In this study, we investigated the gut microbiota changes of piglets receiving, at weaning, 0.2% tributyrin added to their basal diet. The microbiota composition and its metabolic functions were assessed through 16S-rRNA gene sequencing on stools collected from tributyrin and control groups. The comparison between dietary groups revealed that tributyrin modulated gut microbiota composition, increasing the relative abundance of a number of bacterial genera such as Oscillospira, Oscillibacter, Mucispirillum and Butyrivibrio. These genera were positively correlated to average daily gain (ADG) and/or body weight (BW). Based on the function profile prediction, the gut microbiome of the tributyrin group possessed an enhanced potential for energy metabolism and a reduced potential for carbohydrate metabolism.