Gut Microbiota Concerning Reproductive Health of Domestic Animals

Abstract

The animal gut microbiota made up of trillions of gastrointestinal tract microorganisms functions as a crucial part of metabolic processes as well as immunity and reproductive health. The microbiome–gut–reproductive axis (MGRA) demonstrates how gut microbial patterns regulate reproductive hormones together with ovarian function and immune responses and fertility in dairy animals. A microbial imbalance develops from diet disturbances and antibiotic usage and metabolic stress which causes systemic inflammation and hormonal disruption. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis experiences control through short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and endotoxins that originate from microbial metabolites. The reproductive tract of animals contains its unique microbial ecosystem which develops from ascending and hematogenous and environmental microbial pathways. Recent research demonstrates that dysbiosis leads to endometritis together with irregular estrous cycles and lower conception rates. The use of probiotics together with prebiotics and microbiota transplantation shows promise as they work to rebuild eubiosis while increasing reproductive performance. The understanding of MGRA can lead to sustainable non-antibiotic approaches for dairy fertility improvement.