Mannan oligosaccharide

 Mannan oligosaccharide

Mannan oligosaccharide is a carbohydrate derived from the cell wall of yeast. In recent years, large-scale studies with a variety of species have shown the ability of the carbohydrate to block the colonization of intestinal pathogens and increase immune response. Pathogenic bacteria are attracted to mannan oligosaccharide and readily bind with the carbohydrate rather than attaching to the intestinal mucosa. Once bound to mannan oligosaccharide, pathogenic bacteria are excreted with the feces. Many studies with poultry suggest that mannan oligosaccharide can be used to replace growth promoting antibiotics in the diets of growing birds. Studies with calves showed a significant reduction in respiratory problems, possibly a direct result of immune stimulation and increased production of macrophage activity. Alltech, Inc., Nicholasville KY, manufactures two products that are capable of binding pathogens in the digestive tract: BioMos and MTB 100 (Mycotoxin Binder).

One study from the University of Florida involving mares and foals supplemented with mannan oligosaccharide showed that pregnant mares supplemented with ten grams of the carbohydrate daily from 56 days pre foaling to 56 days post-foaling produced colostrum with higher levels of immunoglobulins IgG, IgM, andIgA. Higher IgG transfer to the foal via colostrum helps to ensure resistance to pathogens that produce various diseases.

Another study conducted by the University of Florida examined the effects of feeding mares mannan oligosaccharide and its effects on immunoglobulin content of colostrum, body condition of the mares, and foal weights. Results showed increased immunoglobulins in colostrum, and the foals receiving this colostrum tended to have less incidence of diarrhea. One interesting observance was that foals out of supplemented mares were born with lower birth weights than those from non supplemented mares, and those foals did not catch up by the end of the experiment.

Mannan oligosaccharides may be useful in equine rations by helping young foals receive high levels of antibodies through passive transfer and to help colonize their intestinal tracts with healthy organisms. Horses in training could benefit from increased immune response associated with supplementation of the carbohydrate. Racehorses affected by exercise induced pulmonary hemorrhage(bleeders), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (heaves), and chronic intestinal disturbances also may be candidates for supplementation.