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Monogastric Animal In Vitro Nutrition Model Development
BioVenic provides monogastric animal in vitro nutrition model development services for establishing species-specific digestion and fermentation simulation systems (swine, poultry, horses, companion animals, and aquaculture species) to support feed and feed additive development, digestibility evaluation, and gut microbiota research. Our platform covers both in vitro digestion (gastric and small-intestine simulation) and hindgut/cecum fermentation models, with diet- and segment-specific design for herbivorous, carnivorous, and omnivorous monogastrics. We support comprehensive model construction and optimization, including simulated digestive fluid development, enzymatic solutions (natural and recombinant), inoculum preparation, fermentation process design (batch and continuous), and metabolite and microbial composition analysis.
Background
The various parts of the gastrointestinal tract in monogastric animals have unique structures and functions. The digestive function of the stomach and foregut mainly relies on gastric acid and digestive enzymes.
Main digestive enzymes in monogastric animals:
- Pepsin
- Lipase
- Amylase
- Trypsin
- Chymotrypsin
The hindgut mainly plays a role in fermenting undigested nutrients. Distinct from ruminant animals, monogastric animals possess several mechanisms that restrict bacterial growth in their proximal gastrointestinal tract (GIT).
These mechanisms include:
- Chemical inhibition through substances like acid and bile.
- Efficient absorption of nutrients due to a large absorptive surface area and active transport.
- Rapid passage of digesta, leading to the removal of free bacteria.
- Continuous shedding of epithelial cells and mucus, which aids in the elimination of adhered bacteria.
- Immunological defense mechanisms, including the production of IgA antibodies.
In monogastric animals, bacterial fermentation has concentrated in the lower GIT (hindgut). However, microbial fermentation in the hindgut varies even among monogastric animals. As a result, it is essential to develop in vitro nutrition models that account for the unique physiology observed in different animals.
Monogastric Animal In Vitro Nutrition Model Development One-Stop Solutions
We offer comprehensive services encompassing all aspects of developing in vitro nutrition models for monogastric animals.
Monogastric animal in vitro digestion model development solutions
- With our profound understanding of monogastric animal gastrointestinal physiology, we are able to adjust the pH and enzyme composition of the model according to the physiological environment of different parts of the animal digestive tract.
- To mimic the environment of digestive tracts of different monogastric animals, we develop simulated digestive fluids based on your research needs.
- We provide both natural enzymes and recombinant enzymes, and enzyme development service is also available in BioVenic.
- We provide a wide variety of advanced testing platforms that can accurately detect products of the in vitro digestion.
Monogastric animal in vitro fermentation model development solutions
- Our focus on inoculum preparation ensures that samples are representative and standardized, following professional guidance.
- Additionally, we have the capability to develop and optimize culture media tailored to your specific requirements, drawing from previous research findings.
- To meet the objectives of your experiment and account for variations among different intestinal segments of monogastric animals, we design fermentation process parameters that accommodate both primary culture and continuous culture.
- Through the monitoring of fermentation gas production and regular sampling during the in vitro fermentation process, we can provide valuable information on fermentation profiles.
- With our multiple analyzing platforms, we can conduct comprehensive analyses of metabolites and microbial composition to fulfill your specific research needs.
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Related Research
In a comprehensive review evaluating analytical methods for determining the true nutri-physiological value of feed ingredients for swine, traditional in vivo digestibility assays were compared with prediction equations, ex vivo methods, and in vitro approaches. The review highlighted that traditional chemical analyses of energy and nutrient digestibility do not adequately assess the true physiological or biological value of feed ingredients, as they fail to capture functional components providing health benefits beyond nutritional value, as well as anti-nutritional factors detrimental to pig health and performance. In vitro methods—including pepsin digestibility, multi-enzyme sequential digestion, and gastric simulation systems—provide cost-effective screening tools for large sample numbers, though they cannot fully replicate in vivo biological interactions. The review identified digestion kinetics of different chemical components, circadian rhythm effects on feeding behavior and gastrointestinal microbiome, and functional ingredient properties as emerging innovations for improving precision swine nutrition. This work establishes the methodological framework for developing in vitro monogastric nutrition models that integrate traditional digestibility measures with functional and kinetic parameters.
Fig. 1 Total dietary fiber fractions degraded in the small intestine and large intestine.1
In Vitro Digestion Model Applications
Typical applications of monogastric animal in vitro digestion models are as follows:
- Development of Feed Additives
Simulated digestion tests allow us to test the in vitro digestive properties of a feed additive (e.g. tolerance to digestive enzymes, gastric acid, etc.) and thus develop more efficient feed additives for monogastric animals.
- Development of Novel Feed
The analysis of the in vitro digestion products of a given feed can be used to study the characteristics of the feed and the mechanism of its action on animal nutrition, in order to formulate nutritional strategies and optimize formulations for monogastric animals.
- Digestibility Evaluation
We can simulate the digestion process and obtain the in vitro digestibility through monogastric animal in vitro digestion tests, which reduces the cost and is more reproducible compared to animal tests.
Table. 1 Applications of Monogastric Animal In Vitro Digestion Models
| Animal Type | Substrate/Additive | Digestive Enzymes | Aims | Indicators Measured |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pig | Lactobacillus, fiber-degrading enzymes | Pepsin, pancreatin | To determine the effects of fiber-degrading enzymes and lactobacilli fermentation on the nutritional value of rapeseed meal. | Digestibility of DM and CP |
| Pig | Sticky rice starch, maize starch, resistant starch | Porcine pancreatic alpha-amylase, amyloglucosidase | To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo digestibility of dietary starch and its digestive behavior on the systemic circulating amino acids in weaned pigs. | In vitro digestibility |
| Broiler | 12 experimental diets | pepsin, enzyme cocktail | To use in vitro method for predicting site, rate and extent of starch digestion in broiler chickens. | Potential starch digestibility, fractional starch digestion rate |
| Dog | Extruded dry adult canine food | An enzyme blend | To evaluate the digestibility of dry extruded canine food. | Digestible energy, DM digestibility, protein digestibility, non-fibrous carbohydrate digestibility, total antioxidant capacity |
| Cat | Formulated feline foods | Pepsin, pancreatin (amylase, protease, lipase) | To test the value of in vitro water extraction and digestion assays to predict in vivo P apparent bioavailability/digestibility in feline diets | in vitro % soluble P |
| Horse | Six forages | Pepsin, pancreatin | To improve an in vitro system in order to gather optimized information on the digestion of different forages in the horse′s upper gastrointestinal tract. | DM, CA, CP, CF, NDF, ADF, ADL, fructan, sucrose, glucose, fructose |
| Rainbow trout, cobia and Nile tilapia | Feedstuffs | Digestive enzyme extracts | To develop a species-specific in vitro enzymatic method to assess protein digestion in fish under the pH-stat concept. | Degree of protein hydrolysis |
In Vitro Fermentation Model Applications
Typical applications of monogastric animal in vitro fermentation models are as follows:
- Monogastric Animal Fecal/ Intestinal Microbiota Research
Studying the intricate microbiota of monogastric animals in vivo poses significant challenges due to its complexity. However, in vitro fermentation provides researchers with a valuable tool to investigate the composition and metabolites of the gut microbiota within specific intestinal segments. This approach allows for the exploration of selected nutritional conditions and various fermentation durations. By leveraging in vitro fermentation, researchers can delve into the mysteries surrounding the gut microbiota of monogastric animals, shedding light on their workings.
- Development of Feed Additives
By introducing specific microorganisms, probiotics, or additives into in vitro fermentation systems, we can explore and analyze their impacts on gut microorganisms and metabolites. This provides a theoretical foundation for the development of prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, and other feed additives aimed at improving gut health and overall nutrition status of monogastric animals.
- Anti-Nutritional Factors Research
Anti-nutritional factors present in feed can hinder the optimal utilization of nutrients by animals. In vitro fermentation offers a valuable method to investigate the potential elimination of anti-nutritional factors by gut microorganisms, as well as the effects of these factors on gut microbial communities. This method aids in understanding the interactions between gut microorganisms and anti-nutritional factors, facilitating the development of strategies to mitigate their negative impact.
- Comparative Studies
Comparative studies involving the degradation efficiency of nutrients in inoculums sourced from animals of different species, ages, nutritional statuses, and physiological states provide valuable insights. In vitro fermentation allows for a comprehensive assessment of the fermentation characteristics of nutrients with varying compositions and structures in monogastric animals. Such investigations contribute to a better understanding of nutrient digestion and utilization among different animal populations, aiding in the formulation of targeted and optimized diets.
Table. 2 Applications of Monogastric Animal In Vitro Fermentation Models
| Animal Types | Inoculum Sources | Substrates/ Additives | Aims | Indicators |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sow | Feces | Dietary fibers | To compare fiber fermentability and reveal fiber properties | DM, crude ash, gas production, SCFA, soluble sugars, fiber degradation |
| Pigs | Feces | Citrus by-products | To determine the nutritional characteristics of some by-products and evaluate their use in pig nutrition | gas production, fermentation rate, SCFA, BCFA, ammonia, etc. |
| Sow | Feces | Insect proteins | To evaluate fermentation characteristics of two insect protein | Gas production, SCFA, BCFA |
| Horses | Feces | Saccaromyces Cerevisiae | To determine the effects of a yeast culture preparation on the in vitro microbial population's fermentation parameters in horses | DM, NDF, ADF digestibility |
| Horses | Feces | Normal equine diet | To develop a fermentation model to simulate bacterial communities in the equine large intestine | ADF, starch, SCFA, BCFA, metabolomics, microbiota profiles |
| Horses | Feces | Lucerne, fibrolytic enzyme preparation | To examine the effects of various levels of exogenous enzyme treatments on the in vitro fermentation of different lucerne | DM& NSP loss, gas production, total VFA |
| Chicken | Ileum and cecum contents | Copra meal hydrolysate | To carry out preliminary investigations on the in vitro fermentation selectivity of copra meal hydrolysate by chicken gut microbiota | SCFA, microbial composition |
| Chicken | Cecal inoculum | High-fiber feed substrates | To investigate the in vitro potential fermentability of high-fiber feed sources | SCFA, microbial community |
| Duck | Small intestinal, cecal, and large intestinal content | Oat arabinoxylan | To assess the fermentability of oat arabinoxylan in duck intestines | SCFA, BCFA, arabinoxylan degradation, microbial communities |
| Nile tilapia& European sea bass | Distal intestinal contents | Wheat-derived carbohydrates | To investigate the in vitro fermentability of wheat-derived carbohydrates | Gas production, VFA |
| Dogs& cats | Feces | Fibrous substrates | To evaluate the influence of source of dietary fiber fed to dogs and cats on fermentative activity of their fecal microflora | OMD, SCFA |
Why Choose Us?
- Specialization
We specialize in the animal field and have extensive research in the construction of in vitro nutrition models for monogastric animals.
- Collaborative
Our patient and enthusiastic team has established relationships with a wide range of research institutions and industrial partners.
- Timeliness
We make your needs our top priority and provide you with a solution the first time.
- Innovation
We are passionate about discovering new solutions for your monogastric in vitro nutrition research needs.
Case Study: Sample Digestibility Detection Through a Monogastric In Vitro Nutrition Model
Objective: A client developing a monogastric in vitro nutrition model needed reliable, fraction-resolved digestibility data to compare how well a candidate feed ingredient was digested versus a standard reference. BioVenic provided a sample digestibility detection service: the client supplied feed samples run through their in vitro monogastric digestion platform, and BioVenic ran a standardized detection panel to quantify the digestibility of each nutrient fraction.
System: The client's in vitro monogastric nutrition model, simulating the gastric and small-intestine digestive stages of the target species.
Samples provided by client: Test and reference feed samples processed through the in vitro system at study endpoint.
BioVenic digestibility detection panel: Dry-matter and nutrient-fraction digestibility by standard gravimetric and biochemical assays, covering crude protein, crude fat, gross energy, and phosphorus, with the option to extend to amino-acid-level digestibility.
Fig. 2 Sample digestibility profile
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do you customize the in vitro digestion model (pH, enzymes, simulated fluids)?
A: For digestion, we adjust pH and enzyme composition to mirror each tract segment—using the animal's own main enzymes (pepsin, lipase, amylase, trypsin, chymotrypsin) at physiologically relevant levels. We supply both natural enzymes (including those extracted and purified from the animal's own digestive tract) and recombinant enzymes, and offer enzyme-development service when a novel or optimized preparation is needed. Based on your research question we formulate simulated digestive fluids (with appropriate bile salts, ions, and viscosity), and our advanced testing platforms accurately quantify digestion products—from dry-matter/crude-protein digestibility to specific hydrolysis endpoints such as degree of protein hydrolysis under the pH-stat concept used for fish.
Q2: What does the in vitro fermentation workflow cover, and which endpoints do you measure?
A: Our fermentation solution spans inoculum preparation (feces, cecal, or intestinal content—standardized and representative per professional guidance), culture-media development/optimization, and fermentation-process design supporting both batch and continuous culture to match different intestinal segments and experimental goals. We monitor regularly to build fermentation profiles, then apply multi-platform analysis: SCFA, BCFA, lactate, ammonia-N, gas production, and fermentation rate by GC/HPLC/colorimetric assays; untargeted metabolomics and microbial composition (e.g., 16S rRNA sequencing, Illumina) for community and correlation analysis. Typical readouts follow our application tables—DM/CP/NDF/ADF digestibility, VFA, microbial shifts, and more.
Q3: What research questions can these monogastric in vitro models answer?
A: They support four main applications. (1) Feed-additive development—testing an additive's tolerance to digestive enzymes/gastric acid and its effect on gut microbes to build better prebiotics/probiotics/synbiotics. (2) Novel-feed formulation—analyzing digestion products to understand mechanism of action and optimize rations. (3) Digestibility evaluation—obtaining reproducible in vitro digestibility that cuts cost vs. animal trials. (4) Anti-nutritional-factor and comparative studies—probing how gut microbes eliminate anti-nutritional factors, and comparing fermentation across species/age/nutritional status to design targeted diets. Together the digestion and fermentation arms give a one-stop pipeline from nutrient release to microbial transformation.
BioVenic offers monogastric animal in vitro digestion model development solutions and monogastric animal in vitro digestion model development solutions for animal nutrition researchers. Our solutions and products have solved the problems of many animal nutrition researchers, and we are developing more solutions to meet the needs of monogastric in vitro nutrition research. When you choose us, you are not just choosing a service, you are choosing a complete solution and a research partner. If you are interested in learning more about in vitro nutrition in monogastric animals, please contact us.
Reference
- Shurson, Gerald C., et al. "Measures matter—determining the true nutri-physiological value of feed ingredients for swine." Animals 11.5 (2021): 1259. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051259. The title was changed to "Total dietary fiber fractions degraded in the small intestine and large intestine". Distributed under Open Access license CC BY 4.0.