A Novel Probiotic <i>Bacillus subtilis</i> Strain Confers Cytoprotection to Host Pig Intestinal Epithelial Cells during Enterotoxic <i>Escherichia coli</i> Infection

Abstract

ETEC remains one of the leading causes of postweaning diarrhea and mortality in swine production. Due to the rising concerns with the antibiotic use in livestock, alternative interventions need to be developed. In this study, we analyzed the cytoprotective effect of a novel probiotic strain in combating ETEC infection in swine intestinal cells, along with assessing its mechanism of action. To our knowledge, this is also the first study to analyze the metabolic impact of a probiotic on intestinal cells. Results from this study should provide effective cues in developing a probiotic intervention for ameliorating ETEC infection and improving overall gut health in swine production.