Chapter 1 - Advances in understanding gut function and immunity in pigs: Bert Devriendt, Ghent University, Belgium; 1 Introduction 2 Architecture of the intestine 3 The intestinal epithelium control of gut immunity 4 The Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissues 5 The role of the gut microbiota in shaping gut function and immunity 6 Intestinal organoids as novel tools to explore the function of the gut 7 Conclusions and outlook 8 References
Chapter 2 - The influence of gut microbiome on developing immune and metabolic systems in the young pig: Mick Bailey, Emily Porter and Ore Francis, University of Bristol, UK; 1 Introduction 2 The mucosal immune system 3 Experimental studies of the links between the immune system and microbiota 4 The microbiome and metabolism 5 Conclusion 6 Where to look for further information 7 References
Chapter 3 - Nutritional strategies to boost immune function in pigs: Glen W. Almond, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA and Sara D. Hough, DSM Nutritional Products, Parsippany, NJ, USA; 1 Introduction 2 How does immune challenge affect pig growth? 3 Pregnancy, lactation and pre-weaned piglets 4 Proteins and amino acids 5 Lipids and fatty acids 6 Glucans and carbohydrates 7 Minerals 8 Vitamins 9 Nonnutritive feed additives 10 Summary and future directions 11 Where to find additional information 12 References
Chapter 4 - Improving gut function in pigs to prevent pathogen colonization: P. Bosi, D. Luise and P. Trevisi, University of Bologna, Italy; 1 Introduction 2 The main gut-related pathogens in pigs 3 Pig genetics and resistance to disease 4 Management strategies affecting gut functionality and pathogen colonization 5 Dietary strategies to improve gut functionality and prevent pathogen colonization: feed size 6 Dietary strategies to improve gut functionality and prevent pathogen colonization: protein and dietary fibre 7 Dietary strategies to improve gut functionality and prevent pathogen colonization: dietary nitrate, organic and amino acids 8 Dietary interventions for pathogen-specific defence 9 Future trends and conclusion 10 Where to look for further information 11 References
