Effects of supplementing silver nanoparticles during early embryogenesis on the hatchability and post hatch performance of broilers

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of silver nanoparticles (AgNano) supplementation during early embryogenesis on the post-hatch performance and immunity in broilers. Increasing concentration of AgNano 0 (un-injected control), 12.5, 25 and 50 μg/egg, respectively were administered on 7th embryonic day at the broad end of broiler egg, following in ovo feeding techniques. A total of 60 eggs per treatment were used and five replicates of 8 birds each in all treatment were reared upto 42 days post-hatching. Egg weight, chick weight and ratio were similar in all the groups, however, the hatchability decreased with increasing AgNano concentration. Average daily weight gain was increased in all the AgNano supplemented chicks. Average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not affected by AgNano supplementation. Pancreas weight has shown an increasing trend with increasing concentration of AgNano. The bursa and spleen weight were increased with increasing concentration of AgNano supplementation during embryogenesis. In vivo Immune-response to phytohaemagglutinin- P and sheep RBC was increased in AgNano supplemented chicks. Serum cholesterol level was decreased in AgNano supplemented chicks unlike glucose and total protein. Early embryonic supplementation of AgNano particles modulates the post-hatch growth performance and immunity in broilers.