Cobb Broiler Research Articles

The effect of spices Coriandrum sativum L., Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Pimpinella anisum L., and their combinations on growth performance, carcass trait, and hematobiochemical parameters in broiler chicken.

Background and Aim:The incorporation of herbs and species has been shown to enrich the food with antioxidants and bioactive antimicrobial compounds, thereby preserving the safety and productivity of broiler chicken production. This study aimed to determine the effects of three phytogenic feed additives (PHT) on certain zootechnical and hematobiochemical parameters in broiler chickens. Coriandrum sativum L. (coriander), Pimpinella anisum L. (green anise), and Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (fenugreek) were used to formulate the PHT.Materials and Methods:A total of 360 1-day-old Cobb broilers for 42 days were randomly assigned to four dietary treatment groups: A control group (CTLG) and three groups fed a basal diet supplemented with 3% of coriander (PHT1G), 3% of a combination 50% coriander-50% fenugreek (PHT2G), and finally, 3% of a combination 50% coriander-50% green anise (PHT3G), respectively, and each experimental group included three repetitions of 30 birds. Zootechnical parameters, carcass productivity, and hematobiochemical properties were measured.Results:The birds in the PHT3G had the greatest body weight and organ weight (p < 0.05). However, the weight of abdominal fat remained unchanged. The same group of broilers had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher lymphocyte level of 120.103/μL, followed by the PHT2G, which had 80.103/μL. The levels of monocytes in the PHT2G and PHT3G were 66.103/μL and 60.103/μL, respectively. Regarding granulocytes, we observed 200.103/μL in the PHT2 group and 102.103/μL in the PHT3G. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between the uric acid levels of the PHT1G, PHT2G, and PHT3G, with 50.4 mg/L, 59.84 mg/L, and 47.29 mg/L, respectively. All experimental groups had significantly lower uric acid concentrations than the control group (84.36 mg/L).Conclusion:The use of phytogenic feed additives may positively affect both weight gain and hematobiochemical parameters in broiler chicken, particularly the levels of various white blood cell subtypes and the uric acid rate.

Chlorogenic acid improves growth performance and intestinal health through autophagy-mediated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway in oxidatively stressed broilers induced by dexamethasone

The effects of chlorogenic acid (CGA) on growth performance, intestinal morphology, antioxidant capacity, and the autophagy-mediated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway in oxidatively stressed broilers were investigated. A total of 400 one-day-old male Cobb broilers were divided randomly into 4 groups using a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with 2 CGA supplemental levels (0 and 500 mg/kg) and 2 dexamethasone (DEX) challenge levels (0 and 3 mg/kg body weight). All the broilers were injected intraperitoneally with DEX or sterile saline beginning at the age of 15 d for 6 consecutive days. The experiment lasted for 21 d. The CGA increased average daily gain (ADG), villus height, villus height/crypt depth (V/C) value, and the protein expressions of Occludin and ZO-1 in the ileum and decreased the feed:gain (F:G) ratio, which were impaired by the DEX challenge. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), gutathione S-transferase (GST), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) activities in the serum and ileum were increased by CGA, whereas protein carboxyl (PCO) level in the serum and ileum, and malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the ileum were decreased of the DEX challenged broilers. The DEX challenge decreased microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3)-II, Beclin1, and autophagy-related gene (ATG) 7 mRNA expressions, and the LC3-II/LC3-I value and increased LC3-I, cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase (Caspase)-3 and Caspase-9 mRNA expressions in the ileum, which were improved by CGA. DEX also decreased the protein expressions of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1), Nrf2, HO-1, NADPH quinone oxidoreductase-1(NQO-1) and increased sequestosome 1 (p62) in the ileum, which were improved by CGA. Interactions occurred between DEX and CGA for the ADG, F:G ratio, villus height, crypt depth, V/C value, and SOD, CAT, GST, and HO-1 activities, MDA and PCO levels, LC3-II/LC3-I value, and expressions of LC3-I, LC3-II, Beclin1, ATG7, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Occludin, ZO-1, Keap1, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO-1, and p62. In conclusion, CGA improved the growth performance and intestinal health of oxidatively stressed broilers by activating the autophagy-mediated Nrf2 pathway.

Efficacy of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and garlic (Allium sativum) powder to protect broiler chicken receiving diet containing exogenous aflatoxin

Aflatoxin (AF), a secondary metabolite of Aspergillus species, is carcinogenic and mutagenic for chicken. Chickens are highly sensitive to the adverse effect of AF and it is causing economic loss in poultry industry. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the efficacy of turmeric powder (TP) and garlic powder (GP) on broiler receiving diet containing exogenous AF. Randomly selected 14 days old cobb-500 broiler chicks (N=84) were equally divided into four treatments. Four isonitrogenous and isocaloric experimental diets were prepared viz; diet-A: 1.5 mg of AF; Diet-B: 1.5 mg of AF and 1g of TP; Diet-C: 1.5 mg of AF and 1 g of GP contained per kg feed and control diet had no AF, TP and GP. Each dietary treatment had 3 replications (having 7 birds in each) and respective feed was offered to the broilers according to the entire duration (35 days) of experiment. All experimental broilers were reared following same management practices. At 36 days of age all experimental broiler were slaughtered for examining the necroscopic changes in internal organs such as liver, kidney and spleen to estimate AF residues. Growth of the broiler chicken was monitored and feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. The study demonstrated significant (P&lt;0.01) effect of turmeric and garlic powder on final body weight of birds and so also the FCR. Liver and kidney weight use showed significantly (P&lt;0.01) the highest in diet-A, followed by diet-B, diet-C and the control diet, respectively but, spleen weight did not differ significantly (p&gt;0.05) with the treatments. The residue of AF in different internal organs was also significantly (P&lt;0.05) different between the treatments; being higher in diet-A as compared to the rest of the dietary treatment groups. Evidently, the present study substantiated the potentiality of TP in broiler chicken to overcome the adverse effect of AF, a common mycotoxin. Bangladesh J. Agri. 2019-2021, 44-46: 89-95

Modulation of Antioxidant Defense, Immune Response, and Growth Performance by Inclusion of Propolis and Bee Pollen into Broiler Diets.

Simple SummaryBroiler meat provides a considerable nutritional source of animal protein in the human diet. However, the intensive and accelerating growth in broiler breeding programs requires a continuous or intermittent use of antibiotics to improve the health and performance of broilers. Antibiotic resistance and residues problems cause a general limitation on the use of antibiotics in poultry production worldwide, and hence, prompt researchers and feed companies to find natural alternatives. In the present study, we investigated the possible impact of propolis (PR) and bee pollen (BP) in nutritional strategies on the performance and immunity of broiler chickens. The obtained results display the ability of PR and BP contained within the broiler diets to enhance the antioxidant defense system and improve several immunological parameters. These beneficial effects coincided with an increase in the growth performance of broilers. Thus, supplementation of PR and BP separately or in combination could be recommended into broiler diets for their positive impacts as natural products on the performance and health of broilers.(1) Background: Propolis and bee pollen have natural bioactive compounds that may support the performance and immunological response of broilers. (2) Methods: The study included 300 1 d old Cobb-500 broiler chicks. Starting from 22–42 d of age, chicks were divided according to a 2 × 2 factorial design into one of the four treatment groups (5 replicates × 15 chicks per replicate); a basal diet without supplementation (CONT) or supplemented with 1 g/kg of propolis (PR) or bee pollen (BP) separately or in an even combination (PR + BP). (3) Results: A significant (p < 0.05) increase was obtained in the body-weight gain of broilers treated with PR, BP, and PR + BP compared to the CONT. The total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase were highly (p < 0.05) activated in all treated groups compared to the CONT. Immunological parameters, especially the leukocyte cell viability, T- and B-lymphocyte proliferation, immunoglobulins (IgA and IgM), antibody titers, and wattle-swelling test were significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced in the treated broilers with PR and/or BP compared to the CONT. (4) Conclusions: The dietary supplementation of PR and/or BP could be beneficial for broiler growth through maximizing the antioxidant- and immune-system defenses.

Licorice Extract Supplementation Affects Antioxidant Activity, Growth-Related Genes, Lipid Metabolism, and Immune Markers in Broiler Chickens.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the Glycyrrhiza glabra effect on growth performance, blood parameters, antioxidant and lysosomal activity, histology and immunohistochemistry of liver and intestine, and the gene expression profile of broiler chickens. A total of 180 Cobb500 broiler chicks (one-week-old) were used in this study. Chicks were distributed randomly into three treatment groups; the first group received drinking water without any supplementation (control group). In contrast, birds in groups 2 and 3 received licorice supplementation in drinking water with 0.4 and 0.8 g licorice/liter, respectively. Results revealed that licorice at a 0.4 g/L of water level improved body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and FCR. Licorice also exhibits a broad range of biological activities such as hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant, and antioxidant effects. The morphometric analysis of different parameters of the intestine revealed a significant increase in the intestinal villi length, width, and villi length/crypt depth in the group supplemented with licorice 0.4 gm/L compared to other groups. The number of CD3 positive in both duodenum and ileum was increased in the licorice 0.4 gm/L group compared to other groups. The expression of growth-related genes was significantly increased with licorice supplementation and modulation of the lipid metabolism genes in the liver and upregulated to the mRNA expression of both superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and Catalase (CAT). Our results revealed that licorice supplementation increased the growth performance of broiler chickens and impacted the birds’ antioxidant activity through modulation of the growth-related genes, lipid metabolic markers, and antioxidant-related pathways.

Effect of Various Feed Additives on Carcass and Meat Quality of Two Different Strains of Chickens

Assorted feed additives for broiler chickens, including prohibited antibiotics, are widely sold in the market. The objective of incorporating supplement in feed is to improve broilers’ performance and meat quality. This study conducted an experiment to 60 DOC broilers from each Cobb and Lohmann strains. The experiment was conducted in a 2x4 factorial CRD. The treatments were feed additives, i.e. antibiotics, probiotics, acidifiers and phytobiotics. Each treatment was repeated 3 times. The measured variables were carcass and non-carcass percentage as well as physical quality of broiler meat. Analysis of variance showed that feed additives did not significantly affect (P>0.05) carcass and non-carcass percentage and meat physical quality of the two broiler strains. Conclusively, probiotics, acidifiers and phytobiotics are the potential alternatives as a substitute for antibiotics for Cobb and Lohmann broiler chickens as reflected from the carcass percentage and meat quality.

Beneficial Effects of Spore-Forming Bacillus Probiotic Bacteria Isolated From Poultry Microbiota on Broilers' Health, Growth Performance, and Immune System.

Probiotics are known for their beneficial effects on poultry health and wellbeing. One promising strategy for discovering Bacillus probiotics is selecting strains from the microbiota of healthy chickens and subsequent screening for potential biological activity. In this study, we focused on three probiotic strains isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of chickens bred in different housing types. In addition to the previously reported poultry probiotic Bacillus subtilis KATMIRA1933, three strains with antimutagenic and antioxidant properties Bacillus subtilis KB16, Bacillus subtilis KB41, and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens KB54, were investigated. Their potential effects on broiler health, growth performance, and the immune system were evaluated in vivo. Two hundred newly hatched Cobb500 broiler chickens were randomly divided into five groups (n = 40). Four groups received a standard diet supplemented with the studied bacilli for 42 days, and one group with no supplements was used as a control. Our data showed that all probiotics except Bacillus subtilis KATMIRA1933 colonized the intestines. Treatment with Bacillus subtilis KB54 showed a significant improvement in growth performance compared to other treated groups. When Bacillus subtilis KB41 and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens KB54 were applied, the most significant immune modulation was noticed through the promotion of IL-6 and IL-10. We concluded that Bacillus subtilis KB54 supplementation had the largest positive impact on broilers' health and growth performance.

Impact of a Natural Fusarial Multi-Mycotoxin Challenge on Broiler Chickens and Mitigation Properties Provided by a Yeast Cell Wall Extract and a Postbiotic Yeast Cell Wall-Based Blend.

Yeast cell wall-based preparations have shown efficacy against Aspergillus-based toxins but have lower impact against type-B trichothecenes. Presently, we investigated a combination of deoxynivalenol (DON), T-2 toxin (T2) and zearalenone (ZEA), and the effect of a yeast cell wall extract (YCWE) and a post-biotic yeast cell wall-based blend (PYCW) with the objectives of preventing mycotoxins’ negative effects in commercial broilers. A total of 720 one-day-old male Cobb broilers were randomly allocated to: (1) control diet, (aflatoxins 6 µg/kg; cyclopiazonic acid 15 µg/kg; fusaric acid 25 µg/kg; fumonisin B1 310 µg/kg); (2) Diet1 + 0.2% YCWE; (3) Diet1 + 0.2% PYCW; (4) Contaminated diet (3.0 mg/kg DON; 2.17 mg/kg 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol; 104 g/kg T2; 79 g/kg ZEA); (5) Diet4 + 0.2% YCWE; and (6) Diet4 + 0.2% PYCW. Naturally contaminated diets adversely affected performance, serum biochemistry, liver function, immune response, altered cecal SCFA goblet cell count and architecture of intestinal villi. These adverse effects were reduced in birds fed PYCW and to a lesser extent YCWE, indicating protection against toxic assault. PYCW yielded better production performance and stimulated liver function, with higher response to NDV and IBV vaccination. Furthermore, mycotoxins were found to affect production outputs when evaluated with the European poultry production efficiency factor compared to control or YCWE and PYCW supplemented treatments. Taken together, YCWE, when complemented with nutritional add-ons (PYCW), could potentiate the remediation of the negative effects from a multi mycotoxins dietary challenge in broiler birds.

The Impact of Different Sources of Zinc, Manganese, and Copper on Broiler Performance and Excreta Output.

Simple SummaryMaximising broiler production without negatively affecting the environment is currently paramount. This study was conducted because minerals such as zinc, manganese, and copper are usually provided in excess of the animal’s requirements, which leads to excretion and potential environmental contamination. Different sources of these minerals were tested to determine the best dietary source that would optimize broiler chicken growth whilst reducing the excretion of excess minerals to the environment. This study showed that these minerals provided in their hydroxy form reduced the excretion to the environment without affecting the growth, feed intake, or feed-to-gain ratio of broiler chickens.Commercial premixes provide trace minerals (TM) such as zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu) in excess of the requirements to maximize broiler performance. High inclusion levels of TM in broiler feed and their low absorption in the gastrointestinal tract leads to increased levels of TM in the excreta, resulting in the contamination of the environment. A 35-day broiler trial was conducted with 2880 one-day-old Cobb broiler males to test the effect of the supplementation of different sources of TM on growth performance, while evaluating levels in the excreta. Inorganic (ITM), organic (OTM), and hydroxy (HTM) sources of TM were tested against a positive control of current recommended levels of ITM. At 35 d, birds fed HTM were 55 g (p < 0.05) heavier than those fed ITM at the same inclusion level. In contrast, birds fed the control, OTM, and HTM showed no significant difference in body weight. Providing broilers with HTM significantly (p < 0.05) reduced Zn and Cu excretion at 35 d of when compared to those who were fed diets containing ITM or PC. Supplementing different sources of TM to broiler diets at levels below the recommendations showed no negative effect on broiler performance. The use of HTM significantly reduced TM excretion in broilers. The use of HTM in broiler diets can maintain broiler performance and reduce the negative impact on the environment.

Impacts of Air Velocity Treatments under Summer Conditions: Part II—Heavy Broiler’s Behavioral Response

Simple SummaryBehavioral changes are one of the mechanisms for broilers to adjust their body temperature under heat stress conditions. However, the behavioral responses of heavy broilers to environmental changes have not yet been studied well. Therefore, this research investigated the behavioral changes of broilers under two dynamic air velocity treatments (high and low) under summer conditions. Video data collected from a heat stress experiment conducted on broilers aged 42–54 days were used to investigate variations in the number of chickens feeding, drinking, standing, walking, sitting, wing flapping, and leg stretching. The results indicated that the high air velocity treatments increased the number of chickens feeding, standing, and walking. In addition, age significantly affected the number of birds feeding, drinking, panting, and sitting, while the time of the day also affected the number of chickens drinking and panting. This study reveals the thermal stress of heavy broilers from their behavior under summer conditions to help manage the performance and welfare of birds under environmental stress.Broiler chickens exposed to heat stress adapt to various behavioral changes to regulate their comfortable body temperature, which is critical to ensure their performance and welfare. Hence, assessing various behavioral responses in birds when they are subjected to environmental changes can be essential for assessing their welfare under heat-stressed conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two air velocity (AV) treatments on heavy broilers’ behavioral changes from 43 to 54 days under summer conditions. Two AV treatments (high and low) were applied in six poultry growth chambers with three chambers per treatment and 44 COBB broilers per chamber from 28 to 61 days in the summer of 2019. Three video cameras placed inside each chamber (2.44 m × 2.44 m × 2.44 m in dimension) were used to record the behavior of different undisturbed birds, such as feeding, drinking, resting, standing, walking, panting, etc. The results indicate that the number of chickens feeding, drinking, standing, walking, sitting, wing flapping, and leg stretching changed under AV treatments. High AV increased the number of chickens feeding, standing, and walking. Moreover, a two-way interaction with age and the time of day can affect drinking and panting. This study provides insights into heavy broilers’ behavioral changes under heat-stressed conditions and AV treatments, which will help guide management practices to improve birds’ performance and welfare under commercial conditions in the future.

Socioeconomic Survey and Physicochemical Parameters of Chicken Eggs concerning the Breeding Systems in Cameroon

Physicochemical characteristics of eggs are still poorly controlled in poultry farming in the city of Ngaoundéré, Cameroon. The present study was thus conducted to characterize the rearing systems in modern poultry farming and to analyze the physicochemical characteristics of eggs from hens reared in deep litter, battery, and backyard systems from August to October 2020 in Ngaoundéré, Cameroon. To this end, 33 farms with approximately 61100 hens (Cobb500 broiler and layer) were surveyed. At the end of this survey, a sample of 180 eggs was collected, with 60 eggs per system for physicochemical analyses. Data included socio-economic and technical characteristics of modern farming systems as well as the physicochemical parameters of the eggs. The obtained results indicated that 90.9% of Cobb500 chicken owners were men. Of the total of the layer’s buildings, 73% were equipped with nests. The materials used for feeders were made of wood (54.4%), plastic (21.2%), or cement (6.1%). Moreover, 81.1% of the poultry farmers buy chicken feed on the market while the others prepare their own feed from various ingredients. Preventive and curative prophylactic measures were applied by all livestock farmers, yet 54. 5% were still victims of different diseases. The selling price of a 45-day-old broiler chicken was between 4 and 6 USD, while the price of a 30-egg tray varied between 3 and 4 USD, which contributed to 60-80% of family income for 54.5% of poultry farmers. The high feed cost as well as lack of finance, ingredients, and security were the main issues of poultry farming. Concerning the physicochemical characteristics of eggs, a significant increase in egg weight was noted among backyard (43.50 ± 3.15 g), battery (58.19 ± 4.02 g), and deep litter (63.51 ± 3.91 g) systems. The Haugh’s Unit of eggs in the backyard system (72.33 ± 4.42%) was significantly lower than deep litter (82.91 ± 6.76%) and battery systems (86.83 ± 11.42%). The proportions of eggshell and edible contents were similar in all production systems. Yolk lipid (17.63%) and yolk protein (7.11%) in dry matter contents of local breed eggs were higher than those of improved breed from both systems. The findings indicated that modern poultry farming in Ngaoundéré has been poorly developed and backyard eggs were richer in nutrients and consequently highly recommended to use.

Effect of red osier dogwood extract on growth performance, blood biochemical parameters, and gut functionality of broiler chickens challenged or unchallenged intraperitoneally with Salmonella Enteritidis lipopolysaccharide

As we advance in the search for antibiotic-alternatives, harnessing plant materials with high total polyphenol concentration (TPC) would be quintessential. Given the high TPC in red osier dogwood (ROD) extract, the current study aimed to determine its efficacy on the growth performance, intestinal health, blood biochemistry, and antioxidant capacity of broiler chickens. A 21-day 4x2 factorial feeding trial was conducted based on two main factors namely, dietary treatments and Salmonella Enteritidis Lipopolysaccharides SE-LPS) challenge. A total of 384 one-day-old mixed-sex Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments - Negative control (NC), NC + 0.05% bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD), NC + 0.3%ROD, and NC+0.5% ROD. Each treatment was assigned to eight replicates with six birds/replicate. On d 13 and 20, half of the birds were intraperitoneally injected with 1mL phosphate-buffered-saline /kg BW of birds (Unchallenged-group) and the remaining half with 1mg SE-LPS /kg BW of birds (Challenged-group). Average weight gain (AWG), average feed intake (AFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and mortality were determined weekly. On d 21, ten chickens/treatment were euthanized for measuring blood biochemical parameters, immune organ weights, caecal SCFA, and caeca microbiota. The SE-LPS decreased (P < 0.05) AWG and FCR on d 14 and 21, respectively. On d 14, 21, and overall basis, both ROD extract levels marginally improved (P < 0.05) the AWG of unchallenged birds compared to other treatments in the unchallenged-group. Challenged and unchallenged birds fed ROD extract had deeper (P < 0.05) crypt depth (CD) and higher villus height:CD, respectively, in the ileum. Globulin (GLB) and albumin:GLB were increased and reduced (P < 0.05), respectively, among birds fed 0.3%ROD compared to other treatments. There was no treatment effect on caeca SCFA, relative weight of immune organs, and serum antioxidants. Birds fed ROD extract had a higher (P < 0.05) relative abundance of caecal Lactobacillus and Streptococcus genera compared to the antibiotic treatment. Conclusively, incorporating 0.3% and 0.5%ROD extract into broiler chickens' nutrition improved growth performance and ileal morphology, and modified caecal microbiota of broiler chickens, regardless of the intraperitoneal SE-LPS challenge.

Composition of feathers and pulp of two broiler genotypes

ABSTRACT 1. Cobb and Ross broilers (200 of each sex and breed) were fed four phases of diets ad libitum formulated with balanced protein to match their amino acid requirements throughout growth. Ten birds per genotype were sampled and euthanised at two-weekly intervals from 14 to 112 d of age. All feathers were dry-plucked from each of the seven tracts (specific skin areas) and pulp (the centre of the feather filament) was removed from primary and secondary remiges. 2. Daily losses of feathers were collected from an additional 20 individually-caged broilers of each breed. These feathers were separated into natal down, contour feathers, remiges and rectrices and then pooled by type, sex and genotype to quantify water and protein contents. Only those feathers collected from male Cobb 500 MX broilers were analysed for amino acid content. 3. Amino acid contents of feathers from the seven tracts were measured only in Cobb males on days 1, 28 and 70; for pulp on days 28 and 70; and for the four types of moulted feathers. 4. Protein content on a dry matter basis remained relatively constant over all ages and tracts during growth. Water content decreased with age in both sexes and genotype. Lysine and methionine content in feathers decreased with age while cystine, valine, leucine and serine increased. Lysine, methionine and histidine levels were higher in pulp than in mature feathers whereas cystine and valine were higher in mature feathers than in pulp. 5. These results, together with information about moulting patterns in broilers, enabled the effects of age of the bird and of the type of feather, to be taken into account when determining the rate of deposition of amino acids in feathers.

An attempt to valorize the only black meat chicken breed of India by delineating superior functional attributes of its meat

Kadaknath, the only black chicken indigenous to India, faces the threat of extinction due to declining numbers. Its meat is used in tribal medicine for invigorating and health-promoting properties. Expectations of immune-boosting and therapeutic properties in its meat are creating a buzz these days. Thus, Kadaknath meat was explored and further compared with the commercial Cobb 400 broiler (Cobb) for the functional traits that might be contributing towards proclaimed pharmacological benefits. Birds (n = 20/ group) were raised under similar management conditions and the two primal chicken meat cuts (breast and thigh) were collected at the marketing age. Kadaknath meat was found to be an enriched source of functional biomolecules (carnosine, anserine, creatine). Its breast meat carnosine content was more than double of the Cobb broiler, 6.10 ± 0.13 and 2.73 ± 0.1 mg/ g of wet tissue, respectively. Similarly, the thigh meat of Kadaknath was a significantly (P < 0.05) richer source of carnosine. The genetic background was a key determinant for muscle carnosine content as a significant abundance of CARNS1 and SLC36A1 expression was identified in the Kadaknath breast. The superior functional property of Kadaknath meat was established by the antioxidant capacity established by the Oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay and a stronger ability to inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). The identification of fairly unknown nutritional and functional advantages of Kadaknath meat could potentially change the paradigm with its meat consumption. It will help in developing a brand name for Kadaknath products that will propel an increase in its market share and ultimately conservation of this unique but endangered poultry germplasm.

Evaluation of cefquinome's efficacy in controlling avian colibacillosis and detection of its residues using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of cefquinome in treatment and controlling of Escherichia coli experimentally infected broiler chickens, in addition of detection of its residues using High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In this study, 150 one-day old Cobb broiler chicks were used. On the 14th day chicks experimentally infected and divided into 3 equal groups (50 each); control group (G1) non-infected, non-treated, (G2) infected with E. coli O78 non treated, (G3) infected with E. coli O78, cefquinome treated. Cefquinome was administrated 5th day post infection, intramuscularly by a dose of (2 mg/ kg b w.t) for 3 consecutive days. Experimental E. coli infection in broilers induced weakness, loss of appetite, depression, cough and watery diarrhea in addition to a recorded mortality (30%) with reduction in growth performance, erythrogram, total proteins, albumin, antioxidants and haemagglutination inhibition(HI) titers. In addition, a significant increase in feed conversion rate (FCR), leukocytic count, liver enzymes, kidney functions, total globulins, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide and lysozyme activity. Treatment with cefquinome led to decreased mortality rate, improvement in clinical signs, growth performance and modulated most of these altered parameters. Cefquinome's residues was not detected in breast muscles 3rd day and liver and kidneys 7th days post treatment. Therefore, it's recommended that cefquinome is a good choice for controlling of colibacillosis in broilers and its withdrawal time 3 days in breast muscles and 7 days in liver and kidney post treatment.

Comparative immunomodulatory efficacy of rosemary and fenugreek against Escherichia coli infection via suppression of inflammation and oxidative stress in broilers.

Broiler chickens are frequently infected with Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, which often leads to the emergence of many diseases and high economic losses. Hence, the current study was conducted to assess the relative efficacy of dietary rosemary and fenugreek, under E. coli infection in broilers and their ability to replace antimicrobials without any loss of productivity or negative influence on broiler health, via evaluation of growth performance, biochemical indices, immune response and histo-morphological changes. Eighty Cobb broilers were allotted to four equal groups (n = 20 chicks/group): control non-infected (CN), control infected (CI), rosemary infected (RI) and fenugreek infected (FI) groups. The RI and FI groups revealed a significant elevation in their body weight and body weight gain compared with the CI group. However, both groups showed a significant decline in serum aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activities, as well as uric acid and creatinine levels. A significant decrease in total antioxidant capacity, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities was noted among CI chicks. Moreover, distinctly higher activities were evident in both RI and FI groups. Assessment of immunomodulatory markers showed a significant increase in immunoglobulin G along with a significant decline in interleukin-6 level in both RI and FI groups, with the lowest IL-6 value within FI group. Histopathological evaluations focused on the deleterious effect associated with E. coli infection of broilers' liver, kidney, intestine, spleen, bursa of Fabricius and thymus. Partial histological improvement was noticed among RI group, and nearly normal tissues were recorded in FI group. Overall, the obtained findings suggest the ability of fenugreek to mitigate the adverse effects of E. coli infection on broiler performance and tissue profiles, by improving the general health status of the broiler chickens.

A Novel Whole Yeast-Based Subunit Oral Vaccine Against Eimeria tenella in Chickens.

Cheap, easy-to-produce oral vaccines are needed for control of coccidiosis in chickens to reduce the impact of this disease on welfare and economic performance. Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast expressing three Eimeria tenella antigens were developed and delivered as heat-killed, freeze-dried whole yeast oral vaccines to chickens in four separate studies. After vaccination, E. tenella replication was reduced following low dose challenge (250 oocysts) in Hy-Line Brown layer chickens (p<0.01). Similarly, caecal lesion score was reduced in Hy-Line Brown layer chickens vaccinated using a mixture of S. cerevisiae expressing EtAMA1, EtIMP1 and EtMIC3 following pathogenic-level challenge (4,000 E. tenella oocysts; p<0.01). Mean body weight gain post-challenge with 15,000 E. tenella oocysts was significantly increased in vaccinated Cobb500 broiler chickens compared to mock-vaccinated controls (p<0.01). Thus, inactivated recombinant yeast vaccines offer cost-effective and scalable opportunities for control of coccidiosis, with relevance to broiler production and chickens reared in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Ameliorative effect of tocotrienol and selenium yeast against the adverse effect of florfenicol in broilers’ liver

The prolonged use of florfenicol can lead to detrimental side effects in poultry. This work focuses on the role of tocotrienol and selenium yeast to mitigate the adverse effects of florfenicol in broilers’ liver. One hundred and fifty, one-day-old Cobb broiler chicks where equally divided in 5 experimental groups according to the following experimental design: Group (1) control group chicks fed to a balanced diet only. Group (2) Chicks treated with florfenicol (20 mg/kg b.w.) per bird for 3 successive days and the florfenicol was administered in other groups by the same dose and for the same period of time. Group (3) chicks treated with florfenicol and tocotrienol (170 mg/kg b.w.) for 7 successive days. Group (4) Chicks treated with florfenicol and selenium yeast (0.15mg /kg b.w., on feed) for 7 successive days. Group (5) Chicks treated with a combination of florfenicol, tocotrienol and selenium yeast. Chickens treated with florfenicol exhibited an increased level in hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), as well asa decreasedlevel in hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Tocotrienol and selenium yeast decreased the MDA and increased SOD and GSH in hepatic tissue as well as return ALP, cholesterol, triglyceride and VLDL to their normal levels. Treated chicks with tocotrienol returned serum (ALT) to normal activity but serum total protein and albumin levels were increased. Theselenium yeast treated groups showed an increase of serum total globulin. Histopathologically, florfenicol treated group had focal hepatic leukocytic infiltration and focal coagulative necrosis of hepatocytes but chickens with the combination of tocotrienol and selenium yeast had activated Kupffer cells and revealed less evident necrotic changes in liver. In conclusion, tocotrienol and selenium yeast administrated alone or in combination highlightedimproved antioxidant effects and mitigated the lipid peroxidation in broilers’ liver treated with florfenicol. Thus, tocotrienol and selenium yeastcan improve the safety of using florfenicol in broiler chickens under experimental conditions.

Screening and functional validation of lipid metabolism-related lncRNA-46546 based on the transcriptome analysis of early embryonic muscle tissue in chicken.

The study was conducted to screen differentially expressed long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in chickens by high-throughput sequencing and explore its mechanism of action on intramuscular fat deposition. Herein, Rose crown and Cbb broiler chicken embryo breast and leg muscle lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles were constructed by RNA sequencing. A total of 96 and 42 differentially expressed lncRNAs were obtained in Rose crown vs Cobb broiler chicken breast and leg muscle, respectively. lncRNA-ENSGALT00000046546, with high interspecific variability and a potential regulatory role in lipid metabolism, and its predicted downstream target gene 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate-O-acyltransferase 2 (AGPAT2), were selected for further study on the preadipocytes. lncRNA-46546 overexpression in chicken preadipocyte 2 cells significantly increased (p<0.01) the expression levels of AGPAT2 and its downstream genes diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 and diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 and those of the fat metabolism-related genes peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α, fatty acid synthase, sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1, and fatty acid binding protein 4. The lipid droplet concentration was higher in the overexpression group than in the control cells, and the triglyceride content in cells and medium was also significantly increased (p<0.01). This study preliminarily concludes that lncRNA-46546 may promote intramuscular fat deposition in chickens, laying a foundation for the study of lncRNAs in chicken early embryonic development and fat deposition.

Comparison of locomotion problems and its economic impact on Cobb and Ross broiler strains

The rapid weight gain and fast muscle growth due to intense genetic selection and improved nutrition for additional breast muscle in broiler commercial strains affect chickens health. In order to compare the main locomotive problems in broilers of Cobb and Ross strains, two pens from a commercial farm in Veracruz, Mexico were used. The first pen housed 16,500 males and 16,500 females of Cobb strain and the second one 16,500 males and 16,500 females of Ross strain. Chicks were checked for locomotion problems from day one until their sale. Animals with problems were recorded and necropsies were performed to identify the pathology. Out of 1406 animals with locomotive problems (2.13% of the total), 58.9% were Cobb and 41.1% Ross (P &lt;0.05). The frequency of locomotive problems was 2.51% for Cobb and 1.75% for Ross. Most common individual lesions were osteochondrosis (38.61%), inflamed joints with purulent contents (37.13%), and valgus (19.65%). Locomotive problems appeared since the first week, but its number increased as birds gained weight, particularly from the fourth week on. Problems occurred more in males than in females and in Cobb birds than in the Ross strain. Economic loss due to locomotion problems was higher for the Cobb strain.