REVIEW PAPER
The mode of action of NSP hydrolysing enzymes in
the gastrointestinal tract
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Institute of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary Faculty, Freie Universität Berlin,
Brummerstraβe 34, 14195 Berlin, Germany
Publication date: 1998-08-22
J. Anim. Feed Sci. 1998;7(Suppl. 1):115-123
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ABSTRACT
NSP hydrolysing enzymes are used as feed additives especially in cereal based feed for young
poultry and to some extent for piglets. The beneficial effects depend on various factors and vary for
poultry between 0 and 9% with regard to weight gain. The mode of action of these feed additives is
not well understood. The basis of action is the partial hydrolysis of NSP in the upper digestive tract
leading to a decrease of digesta viscosity in the small intestine and to a softening of the so called
cage effect. In addition to direct effects on nutrient digestion and absorption, morphological-histological modifications and metabolic responses of the intestinal tissues as well as modifications of
quantity and composition of the intestinal microflora seem to be involved in the overall response to
the NSP hydrolysing enzymes.
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