Introduction: Swine dysentery caused by Brachyspira hyodysenteriae is a production limiting disease in pig farming. Currently antimicrobial therapy is the only treatment and control method available.
Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize the metabolic response of porcine colon explants to infection by B. hyodysenteriae.
Methods: Porcine colon explants exposed to B. hyodysenteriae were analyzed for histopathological, metabolic and pro-inflammatory gene expression changes.
Results: Significant epithelial necrosis, increased levels of l-citrulline and IL-1α were observed on explants infected with B. hyodysenteriae.
Conclusions: The spirochete induces necrosis in vitro likely through an inflammatory process mediated by IL-1α and NO.
Keywords: Brachyspira; Host-pathogen interactions; In vitro organ culture; Nitric oxide; Pathophysiology; Swine dysentery.