Influence of the -based probiotic complex on gut microbiota, serum biochemistry, and circulating trace element and mineral levels in lactating dairy cows.

Background And Aim: The existing data demonstrate that gut microbiota is involved in regulating mineral metabolism in cattle, although the data are quite contradictory. The study aimed to evaluate -based probiotic's effects on gut microbiota, systemic metabolism, and dairy cows' essential trace element and mineral body burden.

Materials And Methods: Fifteen cows received a daily supplement of a 50 g -based probiotic, fortified with methionine, choline, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, and oleoresin, for a month. 16S metagenomic sequencing was used to evaluate the taxonomic features of fecal microbiota. Serum trace elements and minerals levels were determined through inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results: Supplementation with -based probiotic complex significantly increased alpha and beta diversity, as well as the abundance of and within the phylum, whereas that of and specifically and decreased. Following probiotic supplementation with the -based complex, gut microbiota modulation led to a significant boost in circulating levels of calcium, copper, selenium, and zinc. Creatinine levels decreased while total cholesterol levels increased within normal limits in the serum analysis.

Conclusion: The observed improvement in trace elements and minerals in dairy cows might be due to changes in intestinal microflora caused by supplementation. Therefore, probiotic supplementation in cattle may be considered a potential tool for improvement of mineral nutrition in cattle. However, the influence of probiotic treatment and modulation of mineral metabolism on milk productivity and overall performance in cattle is yet to be estimated.