Dietary Supplementation of Inulin Ameliorates Subclinical Mastitis via Regulation of Rumen Microbial Community and Metabolites in Dairy Cows
Yue Wang, Xuemei Nan, Yiguang Zhao, Linshu Jiang, Hui Wang, Fan Zhang, Dengke Hua, Jun Liu, Junhu Yao, Liang Yang, Qingyao Luo, Benhai Xiong
Abstract
The correlation between mastitis and the gastrointestinal microbiome in dairy cows has been demonstrated. Regulating the profile of rumen microorganisms may contribute to remission of subclinical mastitis (SCM). Supplementation of inulin in the diets of cows with SCM could increase the abundance of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria and beneficial commensal bacteria in rumen and meanwhile the levels of amino acids and energy metabolism. Conversely, the abundance of ruminal bacteria and metabolites with proinflammatory effects were decreased. Our study suggests that the improvement of the rumen internal environment by inulin supplementation could ameliorate inflammatory responses during SCM in dairy cows and thus improve lactation performance and milk quality. Our results provide a theoretical basis for regulation measures of SCM in dairy cows.