Sesamin improved growth and overall health in young animals by enhancing gut–liver axis function†

Abstract

The immature gastrointestinal development of infants and young animals made them more vulnerable to stress-related damage, which affected the gut–liver axis and consequently impaired their health and growth. This study used weaned piglets as a model to investigate how dietary sesamin regulated the gut–liver axis and impacted young animal health. We assessed gut–liver tissue morphology, measured key indicators of intestinal barrier damage, mucosal repair, antioxidant and immune pathways in the gut–liver system and serum, and analyzed microbial composition. We further explored the interactions between sesamin and the gut–liver axis through PLS-PM and molecular docking analysis. Results showed that sesamin enhanced intestinal barrier function, reduced liver damage, decreased oxidative stress, promoted anti-inflammatory immune responses, and enriched beneficial microbes, thereby promoting overall growth. Sesamin can enhance the health of young animals by regulating the function of the gut–liver axis.