Colonization of gastrointestinal microbiota and its influencing factors in lambs
Lambs are prone to intestinal inflammation mainly because of less developed gastrointestinal tract(GIT)microbiota and the lack of symbiotic microbiota to resist pathogens in lambs.The evolution of GIT microbiota in lambs is closely associated with its absorption of nutrients and the development of the immune system,and the targeted reconstruction of GIT microbiota has the potential to resist intestinal inflammation.The early stage of the life is critical for the establishment and development of GIT microbiota,which has a long-term impact on the growth performance and immune system development of animals in the later stage of the life.Therefore,a deeper understanding of the colonization patterns and factors influencing GIT microbiota could provide theoretical basis for the prevention of GIT diseases of lambs.This article provides a review of the colonization process,functions,and factors influencing GIT microbiota,and elucidates the interrelationships between the GIT microbiota,nutrient absorption,and immune system development in lambs,providing reference for related research on lamb GIT microbiota.