We have previously generated epidermal factor expressing Lactococcus lactis (EGF-LL) using a bioengineering
approach, and shown that EGF-LL fermentation supernatant enhanced newly weaned pigs
growth. The objective of the current study was to further understand the mechanisms behind this
improved performance. Sixty-four piglets were weaned at 3 weeks of age and then fed ad libitum
according to a 2-phase feeding program. Four pens with 8 pigs per pen were assigned to each of two
treatments for 3 weeks: (1) EGF containing supernatant from EGF-LL culture (SuperEGF) or (2) blank
M17GE media (Control). Consistent with previous findings, SuperEGF pigs had an increased average daily
gain during week 3 post-weaning (433.4 ± 10.86 vs 388.7 ± 7.76 g; P < 0.05) and overall gain:feed ratio
(0.757 ± 0.03 vs 0.677 ± 0.01 kg/kg, P < 0.05). Moreover, jejunal structure development was enhanced,
and inflammation index was minimized in SuperEGF pigs as indicated by increased villi height (P < 0.05),
decreased lamina propria width (P < 0.05), and higher expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-13
(P < 0.05). Further, goblet cell numbers and Muc2 levels were increased in SuperEGF pigs. Interestingly,
the weaning-induced decrease of glucose cotransporter sodium-glucose linked transporter 1 (SGLT1)
and glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP2) levels was reversed by SuperEGF supplementation. Our findings
add to our understanding of the mechanisms behind enhancing piglet performance by EGF containing
fermentation product.