Disinfection of Maternal Environments Is Associated with Piglet Microbiome Composition from Birth to Weaning
Kayla Law, Brigit Lozinski, Ivanellis Torres, Samuel Davison, Adrienne Hilbrands, Emma V. Nelson, Jaime Parra-Suescún, L. J. Johnston, Andrés Gómez
Abstract
We show that levels of disinfection in farrowing facilities can impact early microbial exposures and colonization by pioneer microbes in piglets. Although previous research has shown a similar effect by raising pigs outdoors or by exposing them to soil, these practices are unattainable in most swine production systems in the United States due to biosecurity practices. Thus, our results underscore the importance of evaluating different disinfection practices in swine production to safely reduce pathogenic risks without limiting early microbial exposures. Allowing early exposure to both beneficial and pathogenic microbes may positively impact immune responses, reduce the stressors of weaning, and potentially reduce the need for dietary antimicrobials. However, the benefits of modified early microbial exposures need to be accomplished along with acceptable growth performance. Thus, our results also provide clues for understanding how disinfection practices in farrowing rooms may impact early microbiome development and assembly.