Abstract
The widespread use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria, which pose significant threats to animal health and food safety. Host defense peptides (HDPs) have emerged as promising alternatives because of their unique antimicrobial properties and minimal resistance induction. However, the high costs associated with HDP production and incorporation into animal management practices hinder their widespread application. Alternatively, promoting endogenous HDP expression has gained attention as a sustainable and cost-effective approach. This study summarizes the latest research findings on the modulation of HDP expression by the gut microbiota and its metabolites. By exploring the intricate relationships among the gut microbiota, metabolites, and HDP expression, this study aims to provide a theoretical foundation for the development of targeted strategies to increase endogenous HDP production, thereby promoting animal health and resistance to infectious diseases. KEY POINTS: • Host defense peptides (HDPs) are expressed via various factors, such as nutrients, the gut microbiota, and microbial metabolites. • Recent trends include mechanisms among the gut microbiota, microbiota metabolites, and the intestine on HDP expression. • A comprehensive overview of mechanisms of HDP expression and gut microbiota-host interaction is provided.