The interaction between mycotoxin DON and salmonellosis in pigs

Deoxynivalenol (DON), a trichothecene mycotoxin, and salmonellosis are emerging issues for both animal and human health. Our research aims at examining the effects of DON on the pathogenesis of a Salmonella infection and more specifically on the intestinal and systemic phase of the infection.

 

To study the intestinal phase of infection, a porcine intestinal loop model was used. We were able to show that the intake of low and relevant concentrations of DON renders the intestinal epithelium more susceptible for Salmonella Typhimurium with a subsequent potentiation of the inflammatory response in the gut. In humans, this enhanced intestinal inflammation may be of importance for patients genetically predisposed for Intestinal Bowel Disease, since both DON and Salmonella are mentioned as factors of potential etiological importance in the development of this chronic intestinal disorder.

 

By using porcine alveolar macrophages as an in vitro model for the systemic phase of infection, we have shown that low concentrations of DON could modulate the cytoskeleton of macrophages through ERK1/2 F-actin reorganization resulting in an enhanced uptake of Salmonella Typhimurium in porcine macrophages. These results suggest that low but relevant concentrations of DON modulate the innate immune system and could also increase the susceptibility of pigs to infections with Salmonella Typhimurium.

 

Thus, in pigs, intake of DON-contaminated feed might result in higher infection levels in the herd and consequently a higher public health risk for salmonellosis from the consumption of contaminated pork meat. Moreover, the increased risk for infection in pigs is of added concern in view of the frequent occurrence of DON in cereal-based foods and feeds worldwide.

Summary of: V. Vandenbroucke1, S. Croubels1, E. Verbrugghe2, J. Goossens1, F. Haesebrouck2, P. De Backer1 and F. Pasmans2

 

Source: Alltech