Effect Of Dietary Zinc Supplementation Research Articles

Meta-analysis of zinc feed additive on enhancement of semen quality, fertility and hatchability performance in breeder chickens

Abstract The incorporation of zinc in the diets of breeding chickens to enhance reproductive performance has been highlighted. However, no consensus has been reached on the effect of dietary zinc supplementation on the reproductive outcomes of breeding chickens. Therefore, the current study assessed the effects of dietary zinc supplementation on semen quality, fertility and hatchability percentage of breeding chickens using meta-analysis. Furthermore, subgroup analysis was also used to assess the effect of zinc sources (organic versus inorganic) on the reproductive outcomes of breeding chickens. A systematic search conducted on four electronic databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses yielded 521 candidate studies; 8 of the 521 studies that examined the effects of zinc supplementation on reproductive outcomes of breeding chickens met the selection criteria and were used for the meta-analysis. Outcome measures were pooled using random-effects model and expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD) at a 95% confidence interval (CI) for each study. OpenMEE software was used for the analysis. The results indicate significant increase in semen output (SMD = 1.32 mL, 95% CI: 0.76, 1.89), sperm motility (SMD = 1.10 %, 95% CI: 0.81, 1.39), sperm concentration (SMD = 4.28 × 106/mL, 95% CI: 2.78, 5.79), live sperm percent (SMD = 0.96%, 95% CI: 0.69, 1.23) and significant reductions in percentage dead sperm (SMD = –2.80%; 95% CI: –3.43, –2.17), and abnormal sperm (SMD = –4.64%; 95% CI: –5.74, –3.53) when compared to controls, taking cognizance of heterogeneity. In contrast, zinc supplementation had no effect on fertility and hatchability percentage. The subgroup analysis results revealed that zinc sources influenced aspects of the reproductive outcomes of breeding chickens. We conclude that dietary zinc supplementation had a positive influence on reproductive outcomes of breeding chickens, but did not affect percentage fertility and hatchability.

Dietary zinc supplementation rescues fear-based learning and synaptic function in the Tbr1+/\u2212 mouse model of autism spectrum disorders

BackgroundAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a dyad of behavioural symptoms—social and communication deficits and repetitive behaviours. Multiple aetiological genetic and environmental factors have been identified as causing or increasing the likelihood of ASD, including serum zinc deficiency. Our previous studies revealed that dietary zinc supplementation can normalise impaired social behaviours, excessive grooming, and heightened anxiety in a Shank3 mouse model of ASD, as well as the amelioration of synapse dysfunction. Here, we have examined the efficacy and breadth of dietary zinc supplementation as an effective therapeutic strategy utilising a non-Shank-related mouse model of ASD—mice with Tbr1 haploinsufficiency.MethodsWe performed behavioural assays, amygdalar slice whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, and immunohistochemistry to characterise the synaptic mechanisms underlying the ASD-associated behavioural deficits observed in Tbr1+/− mice and the therapeutic potential of dietary zinc supplementation. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Šídák's post hoc test and one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc multiple comparisons were performed for statistical analysis.ResultsOur data show that dietary zinc supplementation prevents impairments in auditory fear memory and social interaction, but not social novelty, in the Tbr1+/− mice. Tbr1 haploinsufficiency did not induce excessive grooming nor elevate anxiety in mice. At the synaptic level, dietary zinc supplementation reversed α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction and normalised presynaptic function at thalamic-lateral amygdala (LA) synapses that are crucial for auditory fear memory. In addition, the zinc supplemented diet significantly restored the synaptic puncta density of the GluN1 subunit essential for functional NMDARs as well as SHANK3 expression in both the basal and lateral amygdala (BLA) of Tbr1+/− mice.LimitationsThe therapeutic effect of dietary zinc supplementation observed in rodent models may not reproduce the same effects in human patients. The effect of dietary zinc supplementation on synaptic function in other brain structures affected by Tbr1 haploinsufficiency including olfactory bulb and anterior commissure will also need to be examined.ConclusionsOur data further the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of dietary zinc supplementation and verify the efficacy and breadth of its application as a potential treatment strategy for ASD.

Effect of Dietary Zinc Supplementation on the Productive Performances, Carcass Traits and Blood Profile of Broiler

This study was conducted to determine the effect of zinc on the productive performances, carcass yield and blood profiles of broilers. Experiment was done for a period of 35 days with a number of 60, day old broiler chicks. Birds were divided into four dietary treatment groups with 3 replications each having 5 birds per replication. The dietary treatment groups were; T0 (basal diet; no zinc), T1 (basal diet + 50 mg zinc/kg feed), T2 (basal diet + 100 mg zinc/kg feed), T3 (basal diet + 150 mg zinc/kg feed). Results revealed that body weight and body weight gain were significantly increased in the zinc supplemented group compared to the control group. Higher feed intake and better FE were also observed in the zinc supplemented group than the control group and the best performance was observed in the group fed 150mg zinc/kg feed (T3). Carcass yield was significantly higher in the groups fed dietary zinc. Net profit was slightly higher in the T3 group but not significantly (P.0.05) differed with the control group. However, T1 and T2 showed less profit even than the control group. Blood profile of the experimental birds including Hb, PCV, and ESR did not significantly differ among the groups. The results indicate that the addition of zinc in the broiler diet improves productive performances, carcass yield and increases net profit without affecting the health status of broiler. So, zinc can be used as an effective and useful micronutrient to improve the performances of broiler.

Extra-Fortification of Zinc Upsets Vitellogenin Gene Expression and Antioxidant Status in Female of Clarias magur brooders.

The present experiment was designed to evaluate the effect of graded level of zinc on Vitellogenin gene (Vtg) expression and antioxidant enzymes in threatened catfish, Clarias magur (C. magur). One hundred and eighty female C. magur with an average weight of 145 ± 5g were allocated in twelve cemented tanks with dimension 4.5 × 2 × 1m for a period of 60days. Fish were distributed in four groups with three replicates following the completely randomised design. The first group treated as control (C) fed with basal diet contained normal zinc level, and remaining groups were fed with basal diets having 50, 200 and 300mg/kg zinc acetate and treated as T1, T2 and T3 respectively. To evaluate the effect of dietary zinc supplementation on Vtg gene expression, three sampling were carried out, I sampling (April, before starting the experimental trail), II sampling (May, after 1month of feeding trail) and III sampling (June before breeding season). In the present study, a dose-dependent relationship between Vtg gene expression and zinc inclusion in the diet of threatened catfish, C. magur, was reported. Vtg gene expression increased in all groups from I sampling to II sampling but the highest Vtg gene expression was found in T1 group and the lowest in T3 group at II sampling. Vtg gene expression among the treatments differs significantly (P < 0.05) in each sampling. Accumulation of zinc was measured by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) in C. magur and it was reported that the significantly higher (P < 0.05) zinc was accumulated in the liver and ovary of T3 group as compared to other groups. The antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, SOD, catalase and GST) were also measured in different tissues (liver, gill and ovary) to evaluate the effect of extra-supplementation of zinc on the antioxidant status. In T3 group, SOD, catalase and GST activities were significantly higher than those in other groups. In the current study, serum glucose level was also measured and it was found in increasing trend with inclusion of zinc in the diet of C. magur. In the present study, it can be concluded that the zinc exhibits beneficial effect only up to 50mg/kg. Thus, it is concluded that supplementation of zinc at 200mg/kg or more disrupts Vtg gene expression and antioxidant status.

Semen indices, growth response and sperm reserve of male rabbits fed zinc supplemented diets

&lt;p&gt;This study was carried out to assess the effect of dietary levels of zinc on semen indices, growth parameters and testicular sperm reserve of heterogeneous stock of male rabbits. Twenty male rabbits aged 6 mo old were randomly allotted to four groups of five males each and fed diets containing 0, 50, 100 and 150 mg of zinc gluconate per kg diet, respectively, for eight weeks. Semen was collected from the males weekly using an artificial vagina and semen volume (mL), spermatozoa motility (%), sperm concentration (×10&lt;sup&gt;8&lt;/sup&gt;/mL) and live sperm cells (%) were assessed. Seminal plasma was separated from the semen by centrifugation, and its zinc concentration was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. The weights of the males were taken weekly, and the daily feed intake was recorded. At the end of the feeding trial, the rabbits were stunned and slaughtered; the testes and epididymis were carefully removed and homogenised to determine sperm reserves using standard procedure. The result showed that semen indices were not significantly influenced by the dietary levels of zinc gluconate. Seminal zinc concentration was significantly higher in males fed 100 and 150 mg of zinc per kg compared to those in the control group. A higher body weight gain (454±50.3 g), testes weight (6.23±0.25 g) and epididymis weight (1.63±0.59 g) was recorded in males fed diet supplemented with 50 mg of Zinc gluconate per kg. No significant effect of dietary zinc supplementation was recorded in testicular sperm reserve. Epididymal sperm reserve was significantly higher in males fed the diets including 100 and 150 mg of zinc gluconate per kg. In conclusion, dietary levels of zinc gluconate did not improve semen quality and growth indices but increased seminal zinc concentration, which could result in improved prostate health in the heterogeneous stock of male rabbits in the tropics.&lt;/p&gt;

Zinc Status Elicits Age-Dependent Effects in the Gut Microbiome

Abstract Objectives Zinc is an essential micronutrient critical for a variety of cellular processes, including immune function. In US, 12% of the population do not consume the EAR for zinc. In older populations the prevalence of inadequate zinc intake increases to ∼40%. Moreover, zinc levels are also often depressed in aged individuals, even when consuming a zinc-adequate diet. Thus, older populations can be highly susceptible to zinc deficiency. Both zinc deficiency and aging are associated with progressive immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation that could be correlated with the promotion of many age-related diseases. Increasing evidence indicates that the interaction among gut microbiota, the immune system, and diet contributes to age-related inflammation. Objectives: The goal of this study is to determine the importance of zinc status and age with respect to composition of the gut microbiome. We hypothesize that age and zinc status are correlated with specific taxa in the gut microbiome. Further, we expect to see additional correlations, both positive and negative, between these significant taxa and markers of host inflammation. Methods We studied the effects of dietary zinc supplementation and marginal zinc deficiency on changes in microbial communities in young and old mice. Young (2 mo) and old (24 mo) C57Bl/6 mice were fed a zinc adequate (30ppm Zn), zinc supplemented (300ppm Zn), or marginal zinc deficient (6 ppm Zn) diet for six weeks. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was performed on fecal samples at study start and end; cecal and colon samples at study end. Results Age correlated with overall microbial composition in the gut, according to a PERMANOVA test and a permutation test, regardless of zinc status. Gut microbiome content of young mice had significant overall correlation with zinc status, while the gut microbiome of old mice was not significantly affected by zinc status. Conclusions Age effects on the microbiome are significant and must be considered when studying effects of diet on the host gut microbiome. Zinc status, especially deficiency, elicits a varied effect on the microbiome that is dependent upon host age. Sampling site (i.e., colon, cecum, feces) had a small but significant effect on specific microbial taxa. Funding Sources NIFA, USDA.

Effects of Zinc Status and Aging on Age-Related Immune Dysfunction and Chronic Inflammation

Abstract Objectives Aging is associated with progressive immune dysfunction, including impaired adaptive response, increased susceptibility to infection, and reduced vaccination efficacy. Aging is also associated with chronic inflammation that correlated with the promotion of many age-related diseases. Zinc is an essential micronutrient critical for immune function. In US, 12% of the population do not consume the estimated average requirement for zinc. The prevalence of inadequate zinc intake is even higher among older populations, and are at increased risk for marginal zinc deficiency. Effects of zinc deficiency share similarities to age-related immune dysfunction, including impaired adaptive immunity and increased in proinflammatory response. The goal of this study is to understand the effects of zinc status and aging on age-related immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation. We hypothesize that age-related decline in zinc status contributes to immune dysregulation and chronic inflammation in the elderly. Methods We studied the effects of dietary zinc supplementation and marginal zinc deficiency on changes in mucosal immunity and inflammatory response in young and old mice. Young (2 mo) and old (24 mo) C57Bl/6 mice were fed a zinc adequate (ZA, 30 ppm Zn), zinc supplemented (ZS, 300 ppm Zn), or marginal zinc deficient (MZD, 6 ppm Zn) diets for 6 wks. Serum zinc status, cytokines, and naïve/memory T-cell phenotypes, were determined at the end of the study. Results Old mice had reduced zinc and increased proinflammatory cytokines MCP1 and IL6 in the serum, increased Th1/Th17/inflammatory cytokines (IFNγ, IL17, TNFα, respectively) and decreased naïve CD4 T-cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). ZS significantly increased serum zinc levels, decreased TNFα, IFNγ, IL17 in MLN, and increased naïve T-cell populations in aged mice. MZD further reduced serum zinc and increased serum IL6 levels in aged mice. Conclusions ZS improved the immune function of aged mice and reduced inflammatory response, and MZD further increased age-related inflammation. Our data suggest that zinc status is an important contributing factor in age-related immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation. Funding Sources NIFA, USDA.

Influence of Zinc Feeding on Nutritional Quality, Oxidative Stability and Volatile Profile of Fresh and Ripened Ewes' Milk Cheese.

Zinc represents a ubiquitous element in cells with relevant roles in the metabolism of essential nutrients in animals. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary zinc supplementation on nutritional and aromatic properties of milk and Pecorino cheeses obtained from lactating ewes. Fifty-two commercial ewes were randomly assigned to two groups. The control group was fed with a conventional complete diet, while the experimental group received a daily supplementation of 375 mg/head of zinc oxide. At the end of the trial, which lasted 30 days, samples of milk and related cheese were collected in order to obtain information about the chemical composition and volatile profile. The experimental feeding strategy induced a significant increase in zinc concentration in milk. Furthermore, both in milk and cheese, was observed an increase in vaccenic, rumenic and total polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the consequent significant reduction of atherogenic and thrombogenic indices. The volatile profile of dairy products was also positively affected by dietary zinc intake, with an increase in concentration of hexanoic acid and ethyl esters. The present study suggests interesting possible effects of dietary zinc supplementation of ewes in improving the nutritional characteristics of fresh and ripened dairy products, although more specific and in-depth assessments should be performed on these new products, in order to characterize potential variations on consumers acceptability.

Zinc supplementation of lactating dairy cows: effects on chemical-nutritional quality and volatile profile of Caciocavallo cheese.

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of dietary zinc supplementation of Friesian cows on chemical-nutritional and aromatic properties of Caciocavallo cheese after 7 days (C7) and 120 days (C120) of ripening.MethodsTwenty eight Friesian cows, balanced for parity, milk production and days in milk, were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The control group (CG) was fed with a conventional complete diet, while the experimental group (zinc group, ZG) received a daily zinc supplementation of 60 mg for kg of dry complete feed. During the experimental period, the milk yield was monitored and samples of milk and caciocavallo cheese were collected and analyzed for chemical-nutritional composition and aromatic profile.ResultsThe enrichment of dairy cows diet with zinc, did not influence milk yield and composition, however a marked reduction of somatic cell count was evidenced. Both in milk and cheese the ZG samples were characterized by a lower concentration of satured fatty acids and an increase in oleic, vaccenic and rumenic acids. The aromatic profile of dairy products was also positively affected by dietary zinc intake, with an increase in concentration of carboxylic acids, esters and lactones.ConclusionThe present results suggest a positive role of dietary zinc intake in improving the quality of bovine milk and related cheese, in particular for the increase in concentration of bioactive fatty acids such as rumenic acid. The changes evidenced in cheese through the analysis of the volatile profile, would be consistent with the development of interesting organoleptic properties, although further evaluations should be performed to confirm the consumer acceptability of these changes.

Zinc supplementation of dairy cows: Effects on chemical composition, nutritional quality and volatile profile of Giuncata cheese

The effects of dietary zinc supplementation on chemical composition, nutritional quality and volatile profile of Giuncata cheese were investigated. Dietary zinc addition did not influence milk yield and composition, but induced a marked reduction of somatic cell count. Both in milk and cheese the experimental samples were characterised by a lower concentration of saturated fatty acids and an increase in oleic, vaccenic and rumenic acids. The volatile profile of Giuncata cheese samples was also affected by dietary zinc intake, with an increase in concentration of butanoic acid, hexanoic acid and hexanal. The present results suggest a positive role of zinc in improving animal health and nutraceutical properties of milk and corresponding cheese. Such findings could contribute to the production of cheeses with interesting properties, although further evaluations should be performed to confirm the consumer acceptability of these changes.

EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTAL ZINC AND COPPER ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING RABBITS

Forty-two New Zealand White male rabbits with average body weight 546.74g were randomly assigned to 7 groups (6 animals in each) in a completely randomized design to study the effect of dietary zinc supplementation through inorganic (ZnO) or organic (Zinc EDTA) sources in combinations with copper (CuSo4) on growth performance. Rabbits of the first group (T1) were given basal diet without any supplementations (control group), while the other 6 groups were given basal diet containing zinc and copper as follows: group 2 (T2) received basal diet + 250 mg Cu/kg diet from CuSo4, group 3 (T3) received basal diet + 500 mg Cu/kg diet, group 4 (T4) received basal diet +20 mg Zn from Zinc EDTA + 250 mg Cu/kg diet, group 5 (T5) received basal diet + 20 mg Zn from Zinc EDTA + 500 mg Cu/kg diet, group 6 (T6) received basal diet +20 mg Zn from ZnO + 250 mg Cu/kg diet and group 7 (T7) received basal diet + 20 mg Zn from ZnO + 500 mg Cu/kg diet, respectively. Live body weight, daily body gain, daily feed intake andfeed conversion ratio were significantly increased by feeding rabbits on diets supplemented with 250 or 500 mg Cu/ kg diet. More enhancements were recorded in rabbits fed with 20 mg zinc as ZnO and 250 mg copper (T6). Total protein concentration in blood serum was significantly increased in rabbits fed 20 mg Zn from Zn EDTA + 500 mg Cu/kg diet (T5). Also the same treatment increased ceriatenine (CREAT) concentration in blood serum. While, Cu supplementations at 250 (T2) or 500 (T3) mg/kg feed increased urea concentration. All supplementation treatments significantly increased pre-slaughter weight comparing to un-supplemented control rabbits. The highest pre-slaughter weight was found in rabbits fed with diet containing 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T2) or with 20 mg Zn from ZnO + 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T6). Weights of carcass, liver and kidney and dressing (%) as well as weights of head and hind part did not significantly affected with the tested supplementations.Economically final margin was increased in all rabbits fed supplemented feed. The highest income from gain and the highest final margin were recorded in rabbit groups fed diet supplemented with 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T2) or 20 mg Zn from ZnO + 250 mg Cu/kg diet (T6).

EFFECT OF ZINC SUPPLEMENTATION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BODY COMPOSITION, ANTIOXIDANT ENZYMES AND SERUM COMPONENTS OF NILE TILAPIA FISH

A fourteen weeks feeding experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary zinc Supplementation of Nile tilapia on growth performance, feed efficiency, body composition & Zn content of the whole body tissue, serum antioxidant enzymes (Glutathione peroxidase (GP), Reduced glutathione (GSH) , Catalase (CAT) & Super oxide dismutase (SOD)) & Malondialdhyde (MDA) & serum components. Zinc was added to the basal diet (32.18 CP% and 3020 Kcal DE/kg) at 0, 20, 40, 60 & 100 mg/Kg diet. Each diet was fed to a group of Nile tilapia fingerlings (No.=32) of mean initial weight 12.74±0.18 g reared in 2 replicate aquaria of 70 L water capacity. The aquaria were supplied with declorinated tap water and continuous air pumping. Growth performance measurements (BW, BWG, FC, FCR & PER) were calculated biweekly. At end of the experiment, blood samples were taken to prepare serum for analysis of the antioxidant enzymes & serum components, 6 fish from each group were freshly minced & analyzed for proximate chemical composition of whole body and Zn content. The results revealed that supplementation of the basal diet with 40 mg Zn/Kg, significantly increased (P<0.05) fish body weight and weight gain along the feeding trail (14 weeks). Both fish groups fed the basal diet (non-Zn supplemented) or the diet supplemented with 20 mg Zn/Kg had the lowest body weight at the end of the experiment. Feed consumption of fish groups that fed 40 mg Zn/Kg were higher than the other fish groups that fed lower (basal diet & 20 mg Zn/Kg) or higher levels of supplemental Zn (60 &100 mg Zn/Kg). The fish groups fed diets supplemented with 40, 60 or 100 mg Zn/Kg had lower FCR. However, there was no significant difference between FCR for the fish groups fed the basal diet and the diet supplemented with 20 mg Zn/Kg. Dietary Zn supplementation did not affect the proximate composition of the fish body. However, the Zn contents of the whole body & vertebrae were significantly increased (P<0.05) in proportional to the dietary levels Orma1 , O. A, .et.al., 162 of supplemental Zn. Zinc supplementation increased serum levels of GPx, CAT, SOD and reduced the level of MDA. There were no significant differences in the serum level of enzymes ALT & AST, total protein, albumin and creatinine. from the results of the current study it could be concluded that Zn content of the basal diet was not sufficient to obtain maximal growth of Nile tilapia fingerlings and Zn supplementation could be advisable for optimal growth, increasing serum activities of antioxidant enzymes & maintaining the serum levels of the liver and kidney biochemical indicators. ,

Reproductive and productive performances of crossbred Andaman local pigs under small holder production system at Bay Islands, India

The present study appraises different traditional feeding practices followed by farmers and effect of dietary zinc supplementation on the reproductive and productive performances of crossbred Andaman local pigs. In the 1st experiment the effect of three feeding practices were evaluated and in the 2nd experiment the effect of supplementation of 80 ppm Zn on growth of weanling piglets were evaluated. The locally available feed ingredients like rice bran, taro (Colocasia esculenta) leaves, broken rice, broken wheat, maize, and coconut cake were used in different proportion for feeding. The different reproductive parameters like the mean age at puberty, age at first conception and first farrowing and various litter traits varied significantly (&lt;0.01) among the three treatment groups. In the next experiment the effect of Zn supplementation on post weaning growth performances of piglets were studied. In treatment group (n=5) 80 ppm Zn was supplemented along with normal farm diet where as in control group (n=5) normal diet was given. The experiment continued for three months. The results showed that the sow receiving the ration made up of coconut cake, broken rice or maize performed better than the sow receiving ration made up of colocasia leaves and rice bran in respect of reproductive performances. Similarly, inclusion of 80 ppm Zn in stater ration enhanced the daily body weight.

Microcirculatory effects of zinc on fructose-fed hamsters

Background and aimsFructose is a major dietary component directly related to vascular dysfunction and diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Zinc is considered a non-pharmacological alternative for treating diabetes due to its antioxidant and hyperglycemia-lowering effects in diabetic animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary zinc supplementation on the microcirculatory parameters of fructose-fed hamsters. Methods and ResultsMale hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) were fed drinking water substituted by 10% fructose solution for 60 days, whereas control animals were fed drinking water alone. Their microcirculatory function was evaluated using cheek pouch preparation, as well as their blood glucose and serum insulin levels. Their microcirculatory responses to acetylcholine (ACh, an endothelium-dependent vasodilator) and to sodium nitroprusside (SNP, an endothelium-independent vasodilator) as well as the increase in macromolecular permeability induced by 30 min of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) were noted. Endothelium-dependent vasodilation was significantly increased in control animals with high zinc supplementation compared to the groups without zinc supplementation. Zinc was able to protect against plasma leakage induced by I/R in all control and fructose-fed groups, although the microvascular permeability was higher in animals fed drinking water substituted by 10% fructose solution compared to those fed filtered drinking water alone. ConclusionOur results indicate that dietary zinc supplementation can improve microvascular dysfunction by increasing endothelial-dependent dilatation and reducing the increase in macromolecular permeability induced by I/R in fructose-fed animals.

Dietary zinc supplementation increased TNFα and IL1β-induced RANKL expression, resulting in a decrease in bone mineral density in rats.

We investigated the effect of dietary zinc supplementation on bone metabolism in rats. Four-week-old male Wistar rats were fed a 30.0 mg zinc/kg diet (C), a 300.0 mg zinc/kg diet (HZ) or a 3,000.0 mg zinc/kg diet (EZ) for 4 weeks. The zinc content of the femur gradually increased in accordance with the gradual increase in the dietary zinc level. Although the mRNA expression of zinc transporters in bone did not differ between the groups, the mRNA expression of metallothioneins was increased in the HZ and EZ groups compared to the C group. Moreover, the bone mineral density was significantly decreased in the HZ and EZ groups compared to the C group. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor α, Interleukin-1β and osteoclastogenesis-related genes such as receptor for activator of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) ligand, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6, and nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic 1 was significantly increased in the HZ and EZ groups compared to the C group. These findings suggested that dietary zinc supplementation reduced bone mineral density through the promotion of bone resorption via an increase in the expression of receptor for activator of NF-κB ligand induced by tumor necrosis factor α and Interleukin-1β.

Effects of dietary zinc supplementation on nutrient digestibility, haematological biochemical parameters and production performance in male sika deer (Cervus nippon)

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of dietary zinc (Zn) supplementation on antler growth, haematological biochemical parameters and nutrient digestibility in farmed male sika deer. Twenty-five 2-year-old growing male sika deer were randomly divided into five Groups (A, B, C, D and E; 5/group). Animals in Groups A, B, C, Dand E received 0, 5, 15, 40, 100 mg Zn/kg, respectively. Group A, without supplementation acted as a control. The treatment diets were the same basal diet supplemented with 5, 15, 40 and 100 mg Zn/kg (provided as Zn methionine), respectively. The results showed that the digestibility of dry matter (DM) and crude protein in Groups D and E were greater than that in Groups A, B and C (P &lt; 0.05). Digestibility of neutral detergent fibre in Group E was higher than in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). Plasma Zn concentrations were increased by Zn supplementation and were higher (P &lt; 0.01) for the treatment groups supplemented with 15, 40 and 100 mg Zn/kg DM than for the control and 5 mg/kg Zn groups (P &lt; 0.01). Faecal Zn content in Groups D and E was higher than that in Group A (P &lt; 0.01). The content of albumin in plasma from Group E was greater than in the control and Groups B, C and D (P &lt; 0.05). The concentrations of testosterone in plasma from Groups C, D and E were decreased (P &lt; 0.05) compared with the control. The days between antler initiation and harvesting of deer in Groups D and E were decreased (P &lt; 0.05). Average daily gain of fresh antler and dry antler of deer in Groups D and E was significantly higher than that in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). In conclusion, a control diet containing 58.6 mg Zn/kg was inadequate for achieving optimal productivity for sika deer. The recommended Zn supplementation is from 76.7 to 99.0 mg/kg for 2-year-old male sika deer.

GW26-e4478 Effects of zinc status on high-fat diet-induced cardiac hypertrophy

We investigated the effect of dietary zinc supplementation and deficiency in mice consuming a high-fat on cardiac inflammation, cardiac fibrosis, and left ventricular function and structure using an animal model of adolescent obesity. Male C57BL/6J mice (3 weeks of age) were fed either high fat

Effects of dietary zinc supplementation during a forced molt on subsequent hen performance and egg quality.

A total of 200 Hy- Line Brown commercial layer hens (64) weeks of age, were used in&#x0D; this study to investigate the impacts of different dietary zinc supplementation during a&#x0D; forced molt on subsequent hen performance and egg quality. The hens were randomly&#x0D; divided into (5) treatment groups of 40 hens each treatment. There were four replicate&#x0D; cages per treatment. The hens in the treatment 1 (control) were fed a layer ration&#x0D; containing 0 ppm ZnO, water and feed were provided ad libitum and received 16 hours&#x0D; of light/day, treatment (2) were fed a layer ration containing 28000 ppm Zn as zinc oxide&#x0D; for 11 days, treatment (3) 37000 ppm ZnO for 9 days, treatment (4) 46000 ppm ZnO for&#x0D; 7 days, and treatment (5)on-again, off-again program (ON-OFF).The experimental&#x0D; period was divided into seven periods (1) 64-66, (2) 67-69, (3) 70-72, (4) 73-75, (5) 76-&#x0D; 78, (6) 79-81, (7) 82-84 weeks. The results indicated that different levels of dietary zinc&#x0D; were improved Hen Day (H.D) egg production and egg weight at periods 70-72, 73-75,&#x0D; 76-78, 79-81, 82-84 weeks, except treatment 37000 ppm ZnO in period 70-72 was&#x0D; reduced in both egg production and egg weight, yolk and white weight improved also in&#x0D; these five periods above, feed intake was improved in two periods 70-72 and 73-75&#x0D; weeks, feed conversion ratio was decreased in two periods 73-75 and 76-78 weeks,&#x0D; compared to both control and ON-OFF program. Haugh unit was improved in dietary&#x0D; zinc treatments and ON-OFF program in all periods except period 64-66 weeks&#x0D; compared to control. The percentage of weight loss was increased in the period 64-67&#x0D; weeks for all treatments except control. Different dietary zinc supplementation was&#x0D; increased the concentration of zinc in yolk from 10.20 ppm (control) to 32.84, 29.61 and&#x0D; 51.08 and, white from 3.50 ppm (control) to 5.96, 5.90 and 6.37 ppm for 28000, 37000&#x0D; and 46000 ppm during fed them with Zn for 11, 9 and 7 days, respectively, but the&#x0D; concentration of zinc in yolk and white was reduced week by week after following the&#x0D; refeeding of a control diet and was normally by week 6.

The beneficial effect of dietary zinc supplementation on anaemia and immunosuppression in Trypanosoma brucei infected rats

Zinc is an essential trace element crucial for normal development and function of cells mediating nonspecific immunity and protects bio-molecules from oxidative damage. This study was designed to assess the effects of dietary zinc supplementation on anaemia and immunity of trypanosome-infected rats. Thirty rats, divided into five groups (A–E) of 6 each, were used for the study. Parameters used to assess the effect of the supplementation are antibody response to Sheep RBC using direct haemagglutination test, parasitaemia using the rapid matching method, WBC count using the improved Neubauer haemocytometer method, haemoglobin concentration using the cynomethaemoglobin technique while PCV was determined using the microhaematocrit method. The pre-infection supplementation did not prolong the pre-patent period significantly (p > 0.05). However, it significantly (p < 0.05) increased the packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, leucocyte count, and antibody titre by day 7 on the supplementation (OTS). Following infection on day 7 OTS, the PCV and Hb decreased but remained significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the infected not supplemented (INS) group, while on day 14 OTS, they maintained a significantly (p < 0.05) higher antibody titre as compared to other groups. On day 21 OTS, theweight of 8 ppm and not infected not supplemented (NINS) groups was significantly (p < 0.05) higher but the relative organ weight of their liver and spleen was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than 2 ppm, 4 ppm and INS groups. On day 21 OTS, the parasitaemia levels of INS group was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the supplemented groups. From the results, dietary zinc supplementation can be useful in the management of anaemia and immunosupression caused by trypanosomes in rats.

Effect of Dietary Zinc Supplementation on Some Seminal Plasma Characteristics of Broiler Breeders' Males

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of zinc (Zn) as feed additive on certain seminal plasma traits of broiler breeders' males. A total of 36 Cobb 500 broiler breeders males, 45 weeks old were used in this study. These birds were randomly distributed equally into four dietary treatments with three replicates each. Each treatment group constituted 9 males. Treatment groups were as following: T1: Birds fed the basal diet without any addition of zinc (0 Zn) (control), T2: Birds fed diet supplemented with 50 mg Zn (pure zinc)/kg of diet, T3: Birds fed diet supplemented with 75 mg Zn (pure zinc)/kg of diet and T4: Birds fed diet supplemented with 100 mg Zn (pure zinc)/kg of diet. Results revealed that adding zinc to the diet of roosters (T2, T3 and T4) resulted in significant (p<0.05) decrease in seminal plasma glucose at 54, 58, 62 and 66 weeks of age and protein during 54, 58 and 66 weeks of age and concerning the total means of these two traits in comparison with T1 group. However, feeding diets containing zinc (T2, T3 and T4) resulted in significant (p<0.05) increase in seminal plasma Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity and significant (p<0.05) decrease in seminal plasma Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine Aminotransferasr (ALT) activity and cholesterol concentration during 58 and 66 weeks of roosters age and with relation to the total means of these traits as compared to T1 group. In conclusion, supplementation of the broiler breeder males with zinc caused significant improvement in seminal plasma traits included in this study. Therefore, dietary zinc supplementation can be used as active tool for enhance reproductive performance of roosters.