Effects of feed contaminants on the intestinal health of monogastric farm animals. Chapter 7. In: Intestinal health, key to optimise production.

Abstract

As the most extensively exposed surface in the body, the intestinal mucosa has to face important chemical and biological challenges. The intestinal mucosa has three main physiological functions. It establishes a physical barrier between the internal milieu and the luminal content. The intestinal mucosa is also responsible for luminal nutrients digestion and their subsequent absorption. The mucosal epithelium is at the interface of immune system and luminal contents, including dietary antigens and microbial products. This implies a local defence mechanisms regulation that involves integrating all the signals that come from the external and internal world to preserve immune homeostasis steady-state conditions. Either of these intestinal physiological functions may be targeted by feed contaminants. These contaminants may be naturally occurring compounds or substances from anthropogenic sources. In the present chapter, we present mycotoxins and dioxins, which are representative examples of both classes of contaminants. Data gathered show clearly that dietary exposure to realistic doses of these contaminants impairs intestine functionality and its integrity as well. The mechanisms of action of mycotoxins and dioxins targeting the gastrointestinal tract are clarified and evidences for their deleterious effects for monogastrics intestinal health are provided.