Evaluate the effects of Njangsa Oil Seeds on Lipid Metabolism and Expression of Stearoyl‐Coenzyme A Desaturase in Laying Hens

Abstract

Stearoyl‐coenzyme A desaturase (SCD) is an integral membrane protein that catalyzes the biosynthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids that are required for the synthesis of triglycerides, cholesteryl esters and phospholipids. SCD regulation may alter hepatic lipid metabolism and prevent liver steatosis in laying hen. The purpose of this study was to determine whether njangsa oil seed (NOS) (Ricinodendron heudelotii) with high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids can regulate the expression of SCD gene and hepatic lipid metabolism in laying hen. We conducted a study in which forty‐two white leghorn hens were randomly assigned to treatments containing: 1) layer diet without NOS (control); 2) layer diet plus 10% NOS or 3) layer diet plus 20% NOS for 6 weeks. SCD mRNA was quantified using forward and reverse primers specific to chicken SCD1 in real‐time reverse transcription‐PCR (RT‐PCR) technique with SYBER Green detection. Quantitative RT‐PCR analysis revealed that SCD gene was highly (P>0.05) expressed in hens fed NOS when compared with those on control diet. Biochemical analysis of blood lipids revealed that plasma triglyceride, cholesterol‐E, free cholesterol and HDL‐cholesterol were higher in NOS fed hens when compared to those on control diet. These results suggest that supplementing hens’ diet with NOS may alter lipid metabolism and regulate the expression of SCD gene in laying hens.