The Impact of Heavy Metals on the Chicken Gut Microbiota and Their Health and Diseases

Abstract

It is important to consider the health and well-being of birds in various production methods. The microbial makeup and function of a bird’s gastrointestinal (GIT) system may vary based on the bird’s food, breed, age, and other environmental conditions. Gut flora play a critical role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Environmental exposure to contaminants such as heavy metals (HMs) has been linked to a wide range of disorders, including the development of dysbiosis in the gut, according to many studies. Changes in the gut microbiota caused by HMs are a major factor in the onset and progression of these illnesses. The microbiota in the gut is thought to be the first line of defense against HMs. Thus, HMs exposure modifies the gut microbiota composition and metabolic profile, affecting HMs uptake and metabolism by altering pH, oxidative balance, and concentrations of detoxifying enzymes or proteins involved in HM metabolism. This chapter will focus on the exposure of chicken to HMs from their feed or water and how these HMs affect the immune system resulting in various diseases.