Yellow mealworm (Tenebrio Molitor) enhances intestinal immunity in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) via the NF?B/survivin signaling pathway

This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio Molitor, YM) in intestinal immunity and health. Largemouth bass, as an enteritis modeling animal, were fed 3 diets containing YM at 0% (YM0), 24% (YM24) and 48% (YM48). The YM24 group had reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines, while the YM48 group experienced a negative impact on intestinal health. Next, the Edwardsiella tarda (E. tarda) challenge test consisted of 4 YM diets, 0% (EYM0), 12% (EYM12), 24% (EYM24), and 36% (EYM36). The EYM0 and EYM12 groups exhibited intestinal damage and immunosuppression by the pathogenic bacteria. However, the above adverse phenotypes were attenuated in the EYM24 and EYM36 groups. Mechanistically, the EYM24 and EYM36 groups enhanced intestinal immunity in largemouth bass via activating NF?Bp65 and further upregulating survivin expression to inhibit apoptosis. The results identify a protective mechanism of YM as a novel food or feed source by improving intestinal health.

Automated summary

This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of yellow mealworm in intestinal immunity and health. It was found that low concentration of yellow mealworm feed reduced proinflammatory cytokines, while high concentration had negative impact on intestinal health. Further experiments revealed that yellow mealworm feed enhanced intestinal immunity and improved health by activating NF-κBp65 and upregulating survivin expression.