Yeast-Based Immune Modulation in Aquaculture Systems

Yeast-based interventions are emerging as versatile tools to enhance host defences and resilience in cultured aquatic species. Yeast cells and their derivatives, including cell wall polysaccharides and secreted metabolites, interact with the fish immune system to bolster innate responses, regulate inflammatory pathways and stabilise mucosal barriers. Key mechanisms include stimulation of phagocytic activity, upregulation of complement components and immunoglobulins, modulation of cytokine profiles and reinforcement of intestinal structure through increased mucin secretion and tighter epithelial junctions. In parallel, yeast can shape the gut microbiota by favouring beneficial bacteria, leading to improved nutrient utilisation and reduced colonisation by pathogens. Species such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Debaryomyces hansenii have been trialled across finfish and shellfish, demonstrating enhanced growth, feed efficiency and resistance to bacterial and parasitic challenges. Such strategies support the transition towards antibiotic-free production, lessen environmental pressure through reduced reliance on fishmeal and underpin sustainable intensification of aquaculture worldwide.

Research from Nature Portfolio

Dietary supplementation with a fermented Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract in juvenile Nile tilapia has been shown to optimise growth performance, feed conversion and body composition when administered at moderate levels. The extract enhanced haematological indices including red and white blood cell counts, and elevated serum total protein, complement C3 and immunoglobulin levels. Concurrent increases in antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced lipid peroxidation indicated improved oxidative balance. Histological examination revealed longer, more branched intestinal villi and reduced hepatic lipid deposition, consistent with enhanced digestive and absorptive capacity. Overall, this work demonstrates that tailored yeast derivatives can synchronously support metabolic, immune and antioxidant systems in a key aquaculture species.

Yeast-Based Immune Modulation in Aquaculture Systems publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in yeast-based immune modulation in aquaculture systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Innate immunity: The non-specific first line of host defence involving cells and proteins that recognise and respond rapidly to pathogens.

β-glucans: Polysaccharides derived from the yeast cell wall that act as immune stimulants by binding to pattern-recognition receptors.

Mucosal barrier: The epithelial lining of the gut, fortified by mucus and tight junctions, which prevents invasion by harmful microorganisms.

Phagocytosis: The process by which immune cells engulf and destroy pathogens and debris.

References

1. Debaryomyces hansenii supplementation in low fish meal diets promotes growth, modulates microbiota and enhances intestinal condition in juvenile marine fish. Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology (2023).
2. Dietary yeast glycoprotein supplementation improves the growth performance, intestinal health and disease resistance of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) fed low-fishmeal diets. Frontiers in Immunology (2023).
3. Combined Effects of Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the Growth Performance, Feed Utilization Intestinal Health, and Blood Biomarkers of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Fed Fish Meal-Free Diets. Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins (2023).
4. Effects of dietary fermented Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract (Hilyses) supplementation on growth, hematology, immunity, antioxidants, and intestinal health in Nile tilapia. Scientific Reports (2024).