Author: admin

Just released in Porcine Health Management

Is a new generation of mycotoxin clay adsorbents safe in a pig’s diet?

by Pavel Horky, Pavel Nevrkla, Tomas Kopec, Iqra Bano, Misa Skoric, Jiri Skladanka, Sylvie Skalickova

Abstract

Background

Bentonites, as a clay mineral, serve in pig farms as adsorbents of toxic substances. They are mainly used to reduce the negative impact of mycotoxins to maintain the performance and health status of animals. The new genotypes of pigs are highly sensitive to a range of antinutrients, including mycotoxins. Currently, attention is focused on more effective adsorbents of mycotoxins with a higher adsorption capacity. Such materials are in great demand among feed manufacturers. However, there is a concern that these new materials may also adsorb too many essential nutrients and decrease animal performance. The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the effect of the new generation of purified bentonites on the efficiency and health status of the pigs.

Results

Forty-eight slaughtered pigs with an average weight of 31.2 ± 2.6 kg were included in the experiment. The pigs were divided into two groups (2 × 24 pigs). Pigs were slaughtered at an average weight of 66.3 ± 5.2. The first group had a diet without clay (control—C). The second group (treatment—T) was fed a diet with a clay additive (purified bentonite) of 1.5 kg/t. Animals were fed the experimental diet for 35 days. In group T, a higher daily weight gain (by 4.8%) and feed intake (by 2.9%) was observed while the feed conversion decreased by 1.9%. There were no significant differences between the groups of pigs during observation in the evaluation of hematological, biochemical parameters of the blood. Morpho-pathological analysis of the jejunum showed similar signs of moderate lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate in the mucosa in the groups C and T, contained similar number of goblet cells.

Click here

to continue reading

lEARN MORE

Utility model

New invention has been entered in the register of utility models of the Czech republic

Inventors: Addicoo group s.r.o., Sylvie Skalickova and Pavel Horky

abstract art circle clockwork
nanoparticles for target delivery to intestines

The outcome introduces a novel utility model, which details the formulation of pH-responsive nanocapsules. These nanocapsules are designed to enable targeted delivery of bioactive compounds to the intestines. The output is an integral part of a larger research project, funded by the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic under the grant number TJ02000325. The project aims to develop nanotransporters for the delivery of monoglycerides, with the ultimate goal of enhancing gut microbiota diversity.

Click here

to learn more about our R&D

explore

Upcoming project: Development of analytical platform for monitoring microplastics circulation in agricultural production

Technology of Agency of the Czech Republic has supported our project:

Development of analytical platform for monitoring microplastics circulation in agricultural production

The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic is an organizational unit of the state that was founded in 2009 by the Act No. 130/2002 Coll. on the support of research, experimental development and innovation. The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic simplifies the state support of applied research and experimental development which has been fragmented and implemented by many bodies before the reform.

Mendel University in Brno and Institute of scientific Instruments (Czech Academy of Sciences) obtained a new grant from TACR (FW06020224). The main investigator of the project is Pavel Horky.

Aim of the project is development of unique detection platform for micro(nano)plastics in agricultural comodities. First phase will be focused on the development of microfluidic chip. In the second phase, broilers will be fed by micro- and nano- plastics. Bioaccumulation and excrection of micro(nano)plastics will be analyzed. The third phase will include application of micro(nano)plastics to soil. Crops growed in the contaminated soil will be analysed to the occurence of micro(nano)plastics. In the final phase, monitoring of micro(nano)plastics will be carried out on selected farms in CZE. The project will bring completely ground-breaking possibilities for the evaluation of micro(nano)plastics in agriculture, which represents the main entry gate of these substances into the food chain.

Click here

to learn more about our R&D activities

explore

Upcoming project: Development of an anti-methanogenic feed supplement to mitigate the environmental impact of livestock farming

Development of an anti-methanogenic feed supplement to mitigate the environmental impact of livestock farming

The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic is an organizational unit of the state that was founded in 2009 by the Act No. 130/2002 Coll. on the support of research, experimental development and innovation. The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic simplifies the state support of applied research and experimental development which has been fragmented and implemented by many bodies before the reform.

Mendel University in Brno, University of Veterinary Sciences, and Agrovýzkum Rapotin Ltd. obtained a new grant from TACR (FW06020190). The main investigator of the project is Pavel Horky.

The proposed project’s primary goal is to develop a new feed supplement based on algae, plant tannins, and probiotics with an anti-methanogenic effect and a high potential for implementation in the Czech and foreign markets. The newly developed feed additive will be intended to enrich the feed ration of ruminants to improve rumen fermentation and animal productivity and reduce the formation of enteric methane and its negative impact on the environment.One of the other expected results is the beneficial effect of supplementing immunoprotective substances from micro- and macroalgae (e.g.,beta-glycans),which strengthens the immunomodulating effect of probiotics. The project will contribute to achieving balanced neutrality regarding the emission of environmental pollutants (mainly CH4 and NH3)

Click here

to learn more about our R&D activities

explore

Upcoming project: Green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles via medicinal African plants

Ingernal Grant Agency of Mendel Univerity in Brno has supported our research

Green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles via medicinal African plants

Principal investigator: Ing. Pompido Chilala

Aim of the project is selenium nanoparticle (SeNPs) green synthesis with usage of herbs which are used in Zambian traditional medicine. Our hypothesis is that green synthetized SeNPs will show higher antioxidant activity compared to inorganic selenium, herbs extracts alone or commercial SeNPs from supplier. We suppose, that green synthetized SeNPs could act as feed additive for animals to prevent them against oxidative stress. The principle of SeNPs formation is reducing inorganic selenium by reducing phytochemicals. Main advantage of green synthesis is to avoid the production of unwanted or harmful by-products. Moreover, several important phytochemicals from herbal extracts are incorporated to the nanoparticle structure, which can enhance its antixodant potential. According to research, selenium in combination with medicinal plants has shown positive results in reducing the effects of stress in livestock and humans (Tupec, et al., 2017). The effects of some of Zambian medicinal herbs have not been fully explored yet. Althought, their therapeutic usage is common in Zambia and the knowledge is passed down from generation to generation. SeNPs synthesis consists three steps: preparation of herbal extract, stirring with inorganic selenium and formed nanoparticles purification. Investigation of SeNPs and herbal extracts antioxidant activity will be done via spectrphotometric method based on  free radicals scavenging. Their usability by target antioxidant system of living organism will be proved on eucaryotic model organism S. cerevisiae. The activity of the key antioxidant enzymes will be determined after SeNPs application to yeast colonies. Quantification of main phytochemicals in herbal extracts will be done using high-pressure liquid chromatography with diode array detector. This project brings a novel green-synthetized SeNPs with traditional Zambian herbs which have not been fully explored yet. Our developed SeNPs could be further used as antioxidant feed additive.

neem leaves
Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Click here

to learn more about our research activities

explore

Upcoming project: Sustainable production of a new, functional food with favorable nutritional properties

Technology of Agency of the Czech Republic has supported our project:

Sustainable production of a new, functional food with favorable nutritional properties

The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic is an organizational unit of the state that was founded in 2009 by the Act No. 130/2002 Coll. on the support of research, experimental development and innovation. The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic simplifies the state support of applied research and experimental development which has been fragmented and implemented by many bodies before the reform.

Our research partner PRO-BIO, obchodní společnost s.r.o. obtained a new grant from TACR Trend (FW06010036). For the research institution is the co-investigator Sylvie Skalickova.

circular economy in organic farming

The objective of the project is to develop a functional foodstuff with new nutritional characters based on cereal or legume suitable for people with dietary restrictions. Another objective is the bio conversion of milling waste either as a protein feed for livestock or fertilizing substrate to revitalize the soil that will ultimately lead towards better soil yield. Dis-continual fermentation with specific microorganisms will be used to reach these goals. Bioconversion of the milling waste is in compliance with the EU principles about sustainable agriculture. The aim is to match the world leaders in the field and strengthen the international competitiveness of the PRO-BIO ltd. company, which is currently the biggest and oldest manufacturer of organic food in the Czech republic.

Click here

to learn more about our R&D activities

explore

Just released in Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology

Toxicological effects of nanoselenium in animals

by Iqra Bano, Sylvie Skalickova, Safia Arbab, Lenka Urbankova, Pavel Horky

Abstract

The productivity and sustainability of livestock production systems are heavily influenced by animal nutrition. To maintain homeostatic balance in the body of the animal at different phases of life, the percentage of organically active minerals in livestock feed must be optimized. Selenium (Se) is a crucial trace mineral that is required for the maintenance of many functions of the body. Se nanoparticles (SeNPs) attracted considerable interest from researchers for a variety of applications a decade ago, owing to their extraordinary properties. SeNPs offer significant advantages over larger-sized materials, by having a comparatively wider surface area, increased surface energy, and high volume. Despite its benefits, SeNP also has toxic effects, therefore safety concerns must be taken for a successful application. The toxicological effects of SeNPs in animals are characterized by weight loss, and increased mortality rate. A safe-by-strategy to certify animal, human and environmental safety will contribute to an early diagnosis of all risks associated with SeNPs. This review is aimed at describing the beneficial uses and potential toxicity of SeNPs in various animals. It will also serve as a summary of different levels of SeNPs which should be added in the feed of animals for better performance.

Click here

to continue reading

lEARN MORE

Just released in Journal of Equine Veterinary Science

Effect of Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) Seed Cakes by Horses Subjected to Physical Exertion

by Hana Dockalova, Daria Baholet, Andrej Batik, Ladislav Zeman, Pavel Horky

Abstract

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) provides several possible benefits for horses, namely anti–inflammatory, antioxidant effects, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Silybin exerts also pronounced effects on energy metabolism, that could be useful for sport horses. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of milk thistle seed cakes (in the form of a granulated mixture with barley) on blood biochemical parameters (total protein, albumin, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, LDH, the total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, TAG, BHB, NEFA, creatine kinase, lactate, glucose, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, cortisol, calcium, and phosphorus) to monitor the differences between the experimental (milk thistle in feed) and control horses after exposure of the monitored horses to heavy physical exercise (combined driving) total number of horses was 12 Czech Warmblood breed horses. The digestibility of silymarin (and its individual flavonolignans) and basic nutrients are also monitored in this study. Statistically significant differences (P < .05) were found mainly in plasma cortisol and NEFA levels. The results of this study confirmed the results of our previous studies. These results suggest that the feeding of milk thistle seed cakes has a possible positive effect on horse health and energy metabolism.

Click here

to continue reading

lEARN MORE

Just released in Frontiers in Veterinary Science

Importance of Zinc Nanoparticles for the Intestinal Microbiome of Weaned Piglets

by Daria Baholet, Sylvie Skalickova, Andrej Batik, Svetlana Malyugina, Jiri Skladanka and Pavel Horky

Abstract

The scientific community is closely monitoring the replacement of antibiotics with doses of ZnO in weaned piglets. Since 2022, the use of zinc in medical doses has been banned in the European Union. Therefore, pig farmers are looking for other solutions. Some studies have suggested that zinc nanoparticles might replace ZnO for the prevention of diarrhea in weaning piglets. Like ZnO, zinc nanoparticles are effective against pathogenic microorganisms, e.g., Enterobacteriaceae family in vitro and in vivo. However, the effect on probiotic Lactobacillaceae appears to differ for ZnO and zinc nanoparticles. While ZnO increases their numbers, zinc nanoparticles act in the opposite way. These phenomena have been also confirmed by in vitro studies that reported a strong antimicrobial effect of zinc nanoparticles against Lactobacillales order. Contradictory evidence makes this topic still controversial, however. In addition, zinc nanoparticles vary in their morphology and properties based on the method of their synthesis. This makes it difficult to understand the effect of zinc nanoparticles on the intestinal microbiome. This review is aimed at clarifying many circumstances that may affect the action of nanoparticles on the weaning piglets’ microbiome, including a comprehensive overview of the zinc nanoparticles in vitro effects on bacterial species occurring in the digestive tract of weaned piglets.

Click here

to continue reading

lEARN MORE

Just released in Livestock Science

Short-term supplementation of zinc nanoparticles in weaned piglets affects zinc bioaccumulation and carcass classification

by Daria Baholet, Sylvie Skalickova, Eva Weisbauerova, Andrej Batik, Ivana Kolackova, Pavel Nevrkla, Pavel Horky

Abstract

High doses of zinc have been used as a prevention against weaned piglets’ diarrhea for many years. Nevertheless, since 2022 high doses of zinc oxide have been banned in EU. Currently, there are several studies about the potential of zinc nanoparticles in lower doses which could maintain a preventive effect. Several concerns about nanoparticles’ toxicity and bioaccumulation have been raised in many other fields of research. The aim of this short follow-up study is focused on the impact of zinc nanoparticles used as a prevention of diarrhea for weaned piglets, on the classification of slaughtered pigs’ carcasses and on zinc retention in muscle tissue. Seventy piglets (10 groups of 7 piglets) were fed a standard diet. The treated groups’ diets were supplemented with zinc oxide (ZnO), and phosphate-based nanoparticles: spherical- shaped type A (ZnA) and irregular-shaped: type C (ZnC), at the doses of 500, 1000 and 2000 mg Zn equivalent per kilogram of diet. The control group´s diet was not treated with zinc in any form. The feed experiment started when the piglets were 28 days old and lasted for 10 days. Experimental animals were grown to the final weight 120 ± 10 kg and slaughtered in a slaughterhouse. The pig carcasses were evaluated according to S/EUROP standards: the pigs’ weight, back fat thickness and lean meat content were monitored. Moreover, zinc concentrations in M. longissimus dorsi et thoracis were analyzed. The results have not proved significant changes in S/EUROP standard classification and zinc bioaccumulation in muscle tissue. This follow-up experiment was carried out as part of maintaining a precautionary approach to the use the nanoparticles in piglet fattening. In our study we did not confirm their effect on the assessment of carcass classification and their bioaccumulation in muscle tissue.

Click here

to continue reading

lEARN MORE