During the International Symposium on Fish Nutrition and Feeding (ISFNF), which took place from June 5-9 in Sorrento, Italy, two studies co-authored by Lallemand Animal Nutrition’s scientists illustrated the potential of yeast-based products for advanced aquaculture nutrition.
Assessing the immune effects of different yeast cell wall fractions
A study conducted in partnership with Mark Rowling from the University of Plymouth described the innovative use of an in vivo vertebrate model, namely the zebrafish, to screen different yeast cell walls (YCW) products for their immune modulation power on the host.
The team assessed the effect of YCWs on mucosal immune response. Four different yeast derivatives were evaluated, all from Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeasts. This confirmed the hypothesis that the immune effects of YCW may differ according to their biochemical, bioactive and morpho-functional properties.
The four yeast derivatives elicited contrasted mucosal and innate immune responses at the animal level. According to the researchers, this study opens the way to a greater understanding and the targeted application of YCW in supporting animal health and welfare.
Searching for new functional ingredients for resilient salmon
The second study presented was conducted in partnership with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) as part of the Resilient salmon project led by NMBU. The goal was to evaluate the potential of a non-Saccharomyces yeast as a candidate for functional salmon feed under a Moritella viscosa challenge.
The study showed in vitro immune activity of the hydrolyzed yeast. This was further validated in vivo following a natural outbreak of Moritella viscosa in vaccinated salmon, where the functional feed increased specific antibodies by 14%.
The team is now further investigating the yeast derivative’s ability to induce trained immunity in fish, with a view to achieving more robust and resilient Atlantic salmon against multi-stressor conditions.
Both these studies can potentially help develop the next generation of yeast derivatives for healthy aquaculture, the company said.
