Multiorgan Proteomics Reveals Metabolic Synergism of Dietary Chlorella vulgaris and Enterococcus lactis SF68 in Weaning Piglets

Chlorella vulgaris microalgae is an alternative feedstuff with an interesting nutritional profile, which may be beneficial when combined with probiotics. C. vulgaris and Enterococcus lactis SF68 dietary inclusion was studied on weaning piglet physiology using proteomics. In a 5-week growth trial, 72 piglets were fed a cereal/soybean meal-based diet (Control); Control plus 5% C. vulgaris (CV5); or CV5 plus probiotic (CV5P). Proteomics of liver, ileum, and longissimus lumborum was performed by LC-MS/MS. The probiotic effect led to the most differentially abundant proteins, and C. vulgaris was the lowest by comparison to controls. The combined diet led to synergistic effects. Liver immunity, lipid mobilization attenuation, and maintained protein catabolism may foster muscle development. Lower intestinal ketone oxidation suggests an improved nutritional state, along with immune priming against bacterial infection. Altered muscle metabolism (mitochondrial respiration, connective tissue, and lipid composition) suggests improved meat tenderness and nutritional value.