# Combination of Hydrolysable Tannins and Zinc Oxide on Enterocyte Functionality: In Vitro Insights

## TL;DR

This study explores how combining zinc oxide with hydrolysable tannins can improve gut health in animals, reducing the need for high zinc oxide doses.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel combination of zinc oxide and hydrolysable tannins to enhance intestinal cell function and reduce ZnO usage.

## Key findings

- ZnO and HTs together improved epithelial barrier function and tissue repair in Caco-2 cells.
- The combination normalized tight junction protein expression and organization.
- ZnO/HTs enhanced defense against oxidative stress caused by inflammation.

## Abstract

The management of gastrointestinal disease in animals represents a significant challenge in veterinary and zootechnic practice. Traditionally, acute symptoms have been treated with antibiotics and high doses of zinc oxide (ZnO). However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for microbial resistance and ecological detriment due to the excessive application of this compound. These concerns highlight the urgency of minimizing the use of ZnO and exploring sustainable nutritional solutions. Hydrolysable tannins (HTs), which are known for their role in traditional medicine for acute gastrointestinal issues, have emerged as a promising alternative. This study examined the combined effect of food-grade HTs and subtherapeutic ZnO concentration on relevant biological functions of Caco-2 cells, a widely used model of the intestinal epithelial barrier. We found that, when used together, ZnO and HTs (ZnO/HTs) enhanced tissue repair and improved epithelial barrier function, normalizing the expression and functional organization of tight junction proteins. Finally, the ZnO/HTs combination strengthened enterocytes’ defense against oxidative stress induced by inflammation stimuli. In conclusion, combining ZnO and HTs may offer a suitable and practical approach for decreasing ZnO levels in veterinary nutritional applications.