Application of metabolomics to assess the intestinal response to dietary supplementation

Abstract

Abstract Recently, there has been increasing interest in the use of feed supplements for improving human and animal nutrition and health. Identification of nutrient biomarkers is a top priority to measure the biological and physiological effects of dietary components. Metabolomics is an objective and accurate tool to expand our knowledge of biological systems response to feed supplements by defining intestinal pathways and mechanisms. This review focuses on the impact of feed supplements on the host intestinal system and blood constituents, illustrating systemic changes in metabolic pathways and functionality. From scientific reports dealing with metabolomic data, the paper compiles evidence on feed additive effects on small intestine morphology, nutrient absorption, enzyme regulation and intestinal epithelium, as well as colon microbiota community. The review concentrates on the cellular and molecular functions to demonstrate the possible biological effects of feed supplements on health. The combinations of quantitative metabolomic assays are finding applications not only in animal and human nutritional sciences but also in agricultural, medical, and medicinal research.