Multi-omics analysis of the mechanism of alfalfa and wheat-induced rumen flatulence in Xizang sheep

Rumen flatulence is a diet-related rumen disease in ruminants. This study induced a rumen flatulence model in Xizang sheep using alfalfa (HRF) and wheatgrass (MRF). The aim was to understand the rumen microbiota diversity in healthy and pathological states, host-microbiota interactions, and the molecular mechanisms of rumen flatulence. Results showed that the pH in the HRF and MRF groups was lower than that in the natural grass group (LRF). SCFA concentrations varied between groups: in HRF, 2-BA and CA increased; in MRF, 4-MVA and 5-MCA rose. Microbial analysis indicated that the alpha- and beta-diversity of HRF and MRF groups were lower than LRF's, with different microbial compositions. Transcriptome analysis revealed many differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Compared to MRF, HRF had 348 upregulated and 511 downregulated DEGs. Versus LRF, MRF had 201 upregulated and 185 downregulated DEGs, while HRF had 128 upregulated and 238 downregulated DEGs. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that there was a positive correlation between Butyrivibrio, Quinella, and specific genes. These findings reveal the potential mechanism of rumen flatulence in Xizang sheep and provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of the disease.