Abstract
This study investigated the effect of Moringa leaf ethanolic extract (MLEE) on heat-tolerance variables and the reproductive performance of rabbit does bred under hot climate conditions. Additionally, the effect of nanoencapsulation technology on the biological efficiency of MLEE was considered. A total of 56 rabbit does were randomly divided into four experimental groups and treated with 50 mg/kg body weight (BW) nonencapsulated MLEE, 25 or 10 mg/kg BW nanoencapsulated MLEE, or not treated (Control, C). The treatments continued for 50 days, including mating and pregnancy times. Physiological and hematochemical variables, hormonal profiles, and reproductive performance (kindling rate and litter characteristics) were determined. The active components of MLEE were identified. The results indicated that MLEE has 30 active components. All MLEE-based treatments reduced heat-stress-related indicators, such as rectal temperatures, respiratory rates and heart rate; improved hematochemical attributes, redox status, and hormones (progesterone and prolactin); and increased the total litter size, the kindling rate, litter size at birth and litter weight at birth. Adding MLEE can alleviate the negative impacts of heat stress by improving metabolism, redox status, and hormonal balance during pregnancy. These effects were seen whether MLLE was in free or encapsulated forms. However, the use of nanoencapsulated MLEE allowed 80% reduction (10 mg/kg BW) in the optimal dose (50 mg/kg BW) without affecting the efficiency of the treatment. These results support the importance of nanoencapsulation technology in improving the bioavailability of active components when they are orally administered.
Highlights
IntroductionRabbits are a good alternative to larger mammals for meat production and, an adequate alternative source for the increasing population in developing countries [1]
Introduction published maps and institutional affilRabbits are a good alternative to larger mammals for meat production and, an adequate alternative source for the increasing population in developing countries [1].Rabbits are characterized by high reproductive performance compared to that of other farm animals; they are sensitive to heat stress, which compromises productive rate and economic spin-off [2]
Increasing global warming represents a real challenge to the rabbit industry, in arid and semi-arid regions; the breeding season could be restricted for several months due to the negative impacts of heat stress on fertility
Summary
Rabbits are a good alternative to larger mammals for meat production and, an adequate alternative source for the increasing population in developing countries [1]. Rabbits are characterized by high reproductive performance compared to that of other farm animals; they are sensitive to heat stress, which compromises productive rate and economic spin-off [2]. Increasing global warming represents a real challenge to the rabbit industry, in arid and semi-arid regions; the breeding season could be restricted for several months due to the negative impacts of heat stress (high ambient temperatures) on fertility. Rabbit does are more susceptible to injury due to these effects as they exhibit critical physiological and hormonal changes during their reproductive cycles [3,4].The search for safe and effective naturally occurring feed supplements is considered to be a promising iations
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