Metabolism Of Broiler Chickens Research Articles

Impact of the arginine silicate inositol complex on bone metabolism in broiler chickens with tibial dyschondroplasia caused by manganese deficiency

ABSTRACT 1. Tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) is a skeletal disorder in broilers that has financial implications, necessitating dietary modifications to reduce the prevalence of this disease. This study explored how arginine silicate inositol complex (ASI) supplementation affected tibial growth plate (TGP) and overall bone health in broilers with manganese (Mn) deficiency-induced TD. 2. A total of 240 broiler chicks were divided into four groups, each consisting of 60 birds (15 replicates of four broilers each) as follows: i) Control, with 60 mg Mn per kg of diet; ii) ASI, with 60 mg Mn and 1 g ASI per kg of diet; iii) TD, with 22 mg Mn per kg of diet, and iv) TD+ASI, with 22 mg Mn and 1 g ASI per kg of diet. 3. It was found that ASI supplementation increased tibial bone length in Mn-deficient TD broilers (p = 0.007). There was no Mn x ASI interaction for other bone morphometry variables (p > 0.05). However, both tibial bone mineral content and density were affected by Mn and ASI (p < 0.05). With ASI supplementation, serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin levels were elevated in the TD+ASI group compared to the TD group (p < 0.001). In the TD group, osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels in the TGP decreased compared to the control groups (p < 0.001). 4. In contrast, ASI supplementation in the TD broilers counteracted the decrease in OPG compared to TD broilers without ASI supplementation (p < 0.001). The Mn level and ASI supplementation significantly influenced the OPG/receptor activator of the nuclear factor-κB ligand ratio (p < 0.001). 5. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that inclusion of ASI in broiler diets could enhance bone formation variables by controlling OPG levels in the TGP, potentially serving as an effective method to decrease the occurrence of TD.

Effects of intermittent cold stimulation on growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant capacity and liver lipid metabolism in broiler chickens

Intermittent cold stimulation (ICS) enhances broilers’ resistance to cold stress. Nonetheless, further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms that enhance cold stress resistance. A total of 160 one-day-old male Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into two groups (CC and CS5), with the CC group managing temperature according to the standard for broiler growth stages, while the CS5 group were subjected to cold stimulation at a temperature 3℃ lower than the CC group for 5 h, every two days from 15-35 day. Sampling was conducted at 36 day (36D), 50 day (50D) and after acute cold stress for 24 h (Y24). First, we examined the effects of ICS on broiler growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism. The results demonstrated that ICS enhanced the performance of broilers to a certain degree. Specifically, the average weight gain in the CS5 group was significantly higher than that of the CC group, and the feed conversion ratio significantly decreased compared to CC at 4 W and 6 W (P ≤ 0.05). Compared with the CC group, cold stimulation significantly reduced drip loss, shearing force, and yellowness (a* value) of chicken meat, while significantly increased redness (b* value) (P ≤ 0.05). At Y24, the levels of T-AOC and GSH-PX in the serum of the CS5 group were significantly higher than those of the CC group, while the level of MDA was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05). The content of TG, FFA, and VLDL in the serum of the CS5 group was significantly elevated, whereas the level of TC and HDL was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05). In addition, we further explored whether AMPK-mTOR pathway is involved in the regulation of changes in lipid metabolism and the possible regulatory mechanisms downstream of the signaling pathway. The results showed that ICS significantly upregulated the expression levels of AMPK mRNA and protein in the liver of the CS5 group at 36D and Y24, while significantly down-regulating mTOR (P ≤ 0.05). Compared with the CC group, ICS significantly down-regulated the mRNA expression levels of lipid synthesis and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes (SREBP1c, FAS, SCD, ACC, GRP78 and PERK) at 36D and Y24, while significantly up-regulating the mRNA expression levels of lipid decomposition and autophagy-related genes (PPAR and LC3) (P ≤ 0.05). In addition, at Y24, the protein expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes (GRP78) in the CS5 group were significantly lower, while autophagy-related genes (LC3 and ATG7) were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05). ICS can affect meat quality and lipid metabolism in broilers, and when broilers are subjected to acute cold stress, broilers trained with cold stimulation have stronger lipid metabolism capacity.

Improving the Quality and Nutritional Value of a Mixture of Sago Pith and Indigofera leaves Fermented with Rhizopus oligosporus

The nutritional value of sago pith is limited due to its low protein content, making it less suitable for poultry feed. To increase the benefit values of the sago pith, it is necessary to process it through fermentation. The current study aimed to determine the effects of substrate composition and fermentation time of fermented sago (Metroxylon sagu) pith (SP) and Indigofera (Indigofera zollingeriana) leaves (IL) mixture using Rhizopus oligosporus as an inoculum on crude protein, crude fat and crude fiber content of fermented SP and IL, nitrogen retention, crude fiber digestibility, and energy metabolism in broiler chickens. The study was performed on 30 broiler chickens, average weighing ± 1.5 kg at 6 weeks of age, along with SP, IL, and R. oligosporus. This experiment was conducted using a randomized design in a 3×3 factorial with three replications. Substrate composition, or factor A, was made up of A1 (80% SP + 20% IL), A2 (60% SP + 40% IL), and A3 (50% SP + 50% IL). Fermentation time as Factor B entailed B1 (2 days), B2 (3 days), and B3 (4 days). The findings demonstrated a significant interaction between the time of fermentation and the composition of the substrate in relation to crude protein content, nitrogen retention, crude fat, crude fiber digestibility, and energy metabolism. It can be concluded that the composition of substrate 50% SP and 50% IL with 3 days of fermentation yielded the best result, with crude protein at 25.45%, nitrogen retention at 59.72%, crude fat at 0.020%, crude fiber at 6.40%, crude fiber digestibility at 57.34%, and metabolic energy at 2658.44 kcal/kg.

Эффективность применения новой кормовой добавки в птицеводстве

Purpose. Assessment of the influence of the organomineral feed additive "Si-lact" on the productivity and metabolism of broiler chickens. Materials and Мethods. The object of the study was broiler chickens of the Arbor Acres cross and an organomineral feed additive. The studies were carried out on 90 broiler chickens, divided into 3 groups: control and two experimental ones. The control bird received a diet according to the recommendations of VNITIP (2019), chickens of experimental group I were given an organomineral feed additive (lactulose, succinic acid, arginine, silicon), II – were given a feed additive devoid of lactulose. Morphological blood parameters were determined using a DF 50 VetPlus device (URIT Medial Electronic Co., Ltd, China). Biochemical studies of blood serum were carried out on a CS-T240 apparatus (DIRUI Industrial Co., Ltd, China) using commercial kits for veterinary research DiaVetTest (Russia). The chemical composition of broiler droppings, feed and body tissue was determined using standard methods. Statistical analysis of the data obtained during the experiment was carried out using the Statistica 10.0 program (StatSoft Inc., USA) and Microsoft Excel (Microsoft, USA). Results. Feeding with an organomineral feed additive (group I) ensured an increase in live weight of 2.28 kg, which was 10.7% (P≤0.05) higher than the same parameter in the control. The growth rate during the experiment in experimental group II was similar (2.27 kg; P≤0.05). At the same time, chickens of experimental group I in terms of live weight by the end of the experiment exceeded their peers from the control group by 17.9% (P≤0.05), group II – by 10.8%. The organomineral additive improved some metabolic parameters. The level of digestibility of organic matter, crude protein, carbohydrates and nitrogen-free extractive substances increases in experimental I by 5.6 (P≤0.05); 4.2; 5.9 (P≤0.05) and 5.3%, respectively, compared with control. Conclusion. An organomineral feed additive containing lactulose has a greater effect on the growth and, as a consequence, the productivity of broiler chickens.

Energy exchange in the body of broilers when introducing Quercus cortex extract and chlortetracycline into the diet

Feed antibiotics are widely used in the diet of poultry as growth stimulants, to maintain health and increase productivity. However, their use carries some risks, which leads to a reduction in the use of antibiotics in diets. Therefore, the search for an alternative that can minimize the negative effect of antibacterial substances is a global task. Plants containing phytochemical compounds are of great interest in the search. One of such phytobiotics is oak bark (Quercus cortex), some of its components act as agents of alternative antibacterial strategies (blocking of the Quorum Sensing signaling system (QS)). However, studies on the effects of Quercus cortex are few. It is interesting to study the additional effects of this phytobiotic in combination with other biologically active substances (probiotics, enzymes and antibiotics in small doses). Based on this, the purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of Quercus cortex extract and Biovit 200 feed antibiotic based on 20% chlortetracycline on energy metabolism in broiler chickens. The study was conducted using generally accepted methods of analyzing metabolic processes in the body of a bird. The calculation of net and exchange energies, energy protein ratio, coefficient of productive use of exchange energy, gross energy was made. The results obtained allow us to conclude that the inclusion of Quercus cortex extract at a dosage of 0,2 ml/kg both independently and in combination with Biovit 200 at a dosage of 0,63 g/kg w.m./ day contributed to a reduction in the amount of energy loss with excrement with an increase in the KPI of OE and the compliance indicator, which shows a more rational use of energy for the process of tissue synthesis in the body of birds of I and III groups.

The effect of substances isolated from an aqueous extract of oak bark on the concentration of chemical elements in the body of broiler chickens

Relevance. A comprehensive study of the properties of plants containing phytobiotic components will make it possible to widely use plant extracts in animal feeding as biologically active additives of the latest generation based on raw materials of natural origin. The aim of the work is to study the effect of substances isolated from an aqueous extract of oak bark (BBVECD) on mineral metabolism in the body of broiler chickens.Methodology. The object of the study are broiler chickens of the Smena-8 cross. 120 heads of broiler chickens were selected for the experiment, which were divided into 4 groups by the method of analogues (n = 30). The control group received the basic ration (RR), I experimental — RR + BBVECD (1 ml/kg of live weight.), II experimental — RR + BBVECD (2 ml/kg of live weight.), III experimental — RR + BBVECD (3 ml/kg of live weight). The analysis of chemical elements in the obtained ash of the studied samples was carried out using the «Elan 9000» mass spectrometer and the «Optima 2000 V» atomic emission spectrometer.Results. The results obtained in the context of the effect of BBECD on mineral metabolism in broiler chickens should be discussed in the context of already available data that a number of compounds found in plant extracts may have the ability to chelate transition metal ions, especially Fe (II) and Cu (II), which is important. During the experiment, it was shown that the introduction of oak bark extract into the diet of broiler chickens mainly led to the accumulation of macronutrients (potassium — from 0.8 to 6.24%, magnesium — from 1.02 to 7.14%, phosphorus — from 5.31 to 7.9%) and essential trace elements in muscles (cobalt — 1.5 times, chromium — 3.67 times, lithium — 1.67 times, nickel — 4 times, silicon — 1.34 times), as well as to reduce the content of toxic and conditionally toxic elements in them: aluminum — 1.62 times, lead — 2 times. In this case, the most appropriate is the use of oak bark extract in a dose of 1 ml/kg of live weight of poultry.

Evaluating the impact of organic chromium on hepatic phospholipid fatty acid molecular species, transcription of genes associated with lipid metabolism and oxidative status in broiler chickens fed flaxseed

Flaxseed is a rich source of α-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3 n-3) and can be used to enrich chicken tissues with n-3 fatty acids (FA). However, antinutritional factors in flaxseed compromise the live performance of birds coupled with increased oxidative stress. Chromium (Cr) is a trace element with antioxidant properties. It is hypothesized that Cr supplementation will affect the hepatic total lipid profile, phospholipid n-3 and n-6 FA molecular species, lipid oxidation products, and transcription of genes associated with lipid metabolism in broiler chickens fed flaxseed. Ninety (n=90), day-old Cornish cross chicks were fed a corn-soybean meal-based diet containing 0% flaxseed (CTR), 10% flaxseed (FLAX), and FLAX+0.05% organic Cr (FLAXCr) for 42 d. The chicks were kept in 18 pens with 5 chicks per pen. For all response variables, the effect of dietary treatments were compared separately using SAS 9.4. P values were considered significant at ≤0.05. Total lipids, saturated FA, long-chain (≥20C) n-6 FA were reduced while total n-3 FA and long-chain n-3 FA were higher in the liver of FLAX and FLAXCr than CTR (P < 0.05). Hepatic phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethnolamine (PE) n-3 species (36:5, 38:6) were higher in FLAX and FLAXCr compared to CTR (P < 0.05). On the contrary, n-6 species in PC (36:4, 38:4) and PE (38:4) were lower in FLAX and FLAXCr compared to CTR (P < 0.05). Addition of Cr to a flaxseed-containing diet led to an increase in PE 36:4 (P < 0.05). A decrease in the transcription of ELOVL6 gene involved in de novo lipid synthesis was observed in FLAXCr (P=0.01). An increase in the transcription of genes involved in FA oxidation (ACAA2, ACOX1) was observed in FLAX compared to FLAXCr (P=0. 05; P=0.02). A trend for a decrease in the transcription of FADS2 and HMGCS1 was observed in FLAXCr than CTR and FLAX (P=0.06; 0.08). Transcription of other genes involved in de novo lipid synthesis (FASN, PPARA), FA oxidation (CPT1A, CPT2, ACAA1), and oxidative stress response (GPX1, NQO11, GSTA2, SLC40A1, NFE2L2) were not affected by the diets (P > 0.05). Lipid peroxidation products measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in liver was reduced in FLAXCr than CTR (P < 0.05) and was not different from FLAX (P > 0.05). Serum cholesterol and aspartic aminotransferase were reduced in FLAX and FLAXCr compared to CTR (P < 0.05). The serum glucose level was decreased in FLAX compared to CTR (P < 0.05) and a trend in decrease was noticed in FLAXCr vs. CTR (P=0.10). Serum TBARS were higher in CTR and FLAXCr compared to FLAX (P < 0.05). In conclusion, flaxseed supplementation enhances total and long-chain n-3 FA while reducing total lipids, saturated, and n-6 FA in the liver. Supplementing Cr along with flaxseed increased n-6 FA species in the hepatic PE and decreased the transcription of genes involved in FA oxidation and lipid synthesis.

Effects of Different Dietary Starch Sources and Digestible Lysine Levels on Carcass Traits, Serum Metabolites, Liver Lipid and Breast Muscle Protein Metabolism in Broiler Chickens.

This study investigated the effects of digestible lysine (dLys) in different dietary starch sources on liver lipid metabolism and breast muscle protein metabolism in broiler chickens. The experimental design was a 3 × 3 two-factor completely randomized design. A total of 702 one-day-old male Arbor Acres Plus broilers were randomly divided into nine treatments of six replicate cages with thirteen birds each. The treatments consisted of three different starch sources (corn, cassava and waxy corn) with three different dLys levels (1.08%, 1.20% and 1.32%). The trial lasted from 1 to 21 days. Carcass traits, serum metabolites, breast muscle protein and liver lipid metabolism were evaluated. A significant interaction effect (p < 0.05) for dietary starch sources and dLys levels was noted in the percentage of abdominal fat and gene expression related to breast muscle protein metabolism throughout the experimental period. The waxy corn starch diet and a 1.08% dLys level in the diet increased both the percentage of abdominal fat (p < 0.01) and blood total cholesterol (p < 0.05) in the broilers. The waxy corn starch diet significantly upregulated the mRNA expressions of Eif4E, AMPK, FABP1, ACC and CPT1 (p < 0.05). The 1.32% dLys level significantly upregulated the mRNA expressions of mTOR, S6K1, Eif4E, AMPK and PPARα (p < 0.05) and significantly downregulated the mRNA expressions of MuRF and Atrogin-1 (p < 0.05). In summary, the waxy corn starch diet resulted in significantly higher expression levels of fat-synthesis-related genes than lipolysis-related genes, leading to abdominal fat deposition in broilers. Increasing the level of dLys in the diet increased the protein content in muscle by promoting protein synthesis and inhibiting protein degradation and also promoted the expression of lipolysis-related genes, thereby degrading the generation of abdominal fat in broilers. Our findings signify that increasing the dLys level to 1.32% when using the waxy corn starch diet could improve carcass traits.

Nitrogen metabolism in broiler chickens with different duration of administration of “ENT-OIL IDROROUGE HM”

An alternative to the use of antibiotics for farm animals are pro- and prebiotics, organic acids and feed additives with vegetable and other ingredients. Of particular interest are complex preparations such as “ENT-OIL Idrorouge HM”. It contains essential oils (cinnamon oil and capsicum oil), citric, formic, propionic and acetic acids. The study object was broiler chickens of cross Ross- 308. The aim was the period of application of the preparation. 3 groups of 60 heads each were formed according to the principle of analogous pairs. The first group of chickens (control) received the basic diet corresponding to the growth stage from birth to the moment of slaughter. The poultry of the experimental groups, in addition to the basal diet, were injected through the drinking system with “ENT-OIL Idrorouge HM” at a dose of 0.5 g per 1 l of water. The second group was injected from the 5th to the 38th day, and the third one was injected from the 23rd to the 29th day. In the blood the growth rate, safety and indicators of nitrogen metabolism (total protein and its fractions, urea, creatinine) were monitored. It was found that the long-term consumption of the additive contributed to the growth of live weight by 5.9% (p&lt;0.05) relative to the control group, and the short-term consumption contributed to the growth by 5.0% (p&lt;0.05). The indicators of nitrogen metabolism during permanent intake of the additive did not have significant reliable differences from the control group, and when short-term feeding, a significant increase in the concentration of urea and creatinine by 17.9% (p&lt;0.05) and 51.3% (p&lt;0.001) was shown by its end (the 29th day). This difference was leveled by the slaughter (the 38th day). The safety of livestock during the experiment was 96.7%, in the first group, 100% in the second experimental group and 98.3% in the third one

Peripheral and Central Impact of Methionine Source and Level on Growth Performance, Circulating Methionine Levels and Metabolism in Broiler Chickens.

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of DL-methionine (DL-Met) 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid (HMTBa), or S-(5'-Adenosyl)-L-methionine chloride (SAM), using feeding trial and central administration, on live performance, plasma metabolites, and the expression of feeding-related hypothalamic neuropeptides in broilers raised to a market age (35 d). Final average body weight (BW) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) from the feeding trial exceeded the performance measurements published by the primary breeder. At d35, the MTBHa group had better BW and lower feed intake, which resulted in a better FCR than the DL-Met group at 87 TSAA to lysine. At the molecular levels, the expression of hypothalamic neuropeptide (NPY) and monocarboxylate transporter (MCT) 2 did not differ between all treated groups; however, the mRNA abundances of hypothalamic MCT1 and orexin (ORX) were significantly upregulated in DL-Met- treated groups compared to the control. The ICV administration of SAM significantly reduced feed intake at all tested periods (from 30 to 180 min post injection) compared to the aCSF-treated group (control). The central administration of HMTBa increased feed intake, which reached a significant level only 60 min post administration, compared to the control group. ICV administration of DL-Met slightly increased feed intake compared to the control group, but the difference was not statistically discernable. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that the hypothalamic expression of NPY, cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript, MCT1, and MCT2 was significantly upregulated in the ICV-HMTBa group compared to the aCSF birds. The hypothalamic expression of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPKα1), D-amino acid oxidase, and hydroxyacid oxidase was significantly upregulated in DL-Met compared to the control group. The mRNA abundances of ORX were significantly increased in the hypothalamus of both DL-Met and HMTBa groups compared to the aCSF birds; however, mTOR gene expression was significantly downregulated in the SAM compared to the control group. Taken together, these data show, for the first time, that DL-Met and HMTBa have a common downstream (ORX) pathway, but also a differential central pathway, typically NPY-MCT for HMTBa and mTOR-AMPK for methionine.

Effects of Vitamin A on Immune Responses and Vitamin A Metabolism in Broiler Chickens Challenged with Necrotic Enteritis.

Necrotic enteritis (NE) is an important enteric inflammatory disease of poultry, and the effects of vitamin A (VitA) on NE birds are largely unknown. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of VitA on the immune responses and VitA metabolism of NE broilers as well as the underlying mechanisms. Using a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, 336 1-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 4 groups with 7 replicates. Broilers in the control (Ctrl) group were fed a basal diet without extra VitA supplementation. Broilers in the VitA group were fed a basal diet supplemented with 12,000 IU/kg of VitA. Birds in NE and VitA + NE groups were fed corresponding diets and, in addition, co-infected with Eimeria spp. and Clostridium perfringens on days 14 to 20. Samples of the blood, jejunum, spleen and liver were obtained on day 28 for analysis, and meanwhile, lesion scores were also recorded. The results showed that NE challenge increased lesion score in the jejunum and decreased serum glucose, total glyceride, calcium, phosphorus and uric acid levels (p < 0.05). VitA supplementation reduced the levels of serum phosphorus, uric acid and alkaline phosphatase in NE-challenged birds and increased serum low-density lipoprotein content and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase (p < 0.05). Compared with the Ctrl group, the VitA and NE groups had higher mRNA expression of interferon-γ in the jejunum (p < 0.05). NE challenge up-regulated mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)-13, transforming growth factor-β4, aldehyde dehydrogenase (RALDH)-2 and RALDH-3 in the jejunum, while VitA supplementation increased jejunal IL-13 mRNA expression and hepatic VitA content, but down-regulated splenic IL-13 mRNA expression (p < 0.05). The VitA + NE group had higher serum prostaglandin E2 levels and the Ctrl group had higher splenic RALDH-3 mRNA expression than that of the other three groups (p < 0.05). NE challenge up-regulated jejunal retinoic acid receptor (RAR)-β and retinoid X receptor (RXR)-α as well as splenic RAR-α and RAR-β mRNA expression (p < 0.05). VitA supplementation up-regulated jejunal RAR-β expression but down-regulated mRNA expression of RXR-α, RXR-γ, signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) 5 and STAT6 in the spleen (p < 0.05). Moreover, compared with the Ctrl group, the VitA and NE groups had down-regulated mRNA expression of jejunal and splenic Janus kinase (JAK) 1 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, NE challenge induced jejunal injury and expression of Th2 and Treg cell-related cytokines and enhanced RALDH and RAR/RXR mRNA expression, mainly in the jejunum of broilers. VitA supplementation did not alleviate jejunal injury or Th2 cell-related cytokine expression; however, it improved hepatic VitA deposition and inhibited the expression of RALDH-3, RXR and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in the spleen of broilers. In short, the present study suggested the modulatory effects of vitamin A on the immune responses and vitamin A metabolism in broiler chickens challenged with necrotic enteritis.

Influence of chelated compounds on protein metabolism in the blood serum of broiler chickens

The use of chelated compounds (mineral proteinates) in animal diets has a targeted effect on specific functions and enzyme systems of the body, since they are absorbed intact. The purpose of the work was to study the influence of chelated compounds of trace elements in the composition of the metalloprotein “Belmin” on the blood content of broiler chickens of total protein, its fractions, as well as free amino acids. In order to determine the eff ect of chelated compounds of trace elements in the composition of the metalloprotein “Belmin” on the indicators of protein metabolism in blood serum 9 heads of broiler chickens of 37-day-old age (per 3 heads in each; in the 1st control, 2nd and 3rd experimental groups) were selected. The metalloprotein content in the 2nd experimental group was 0,20 %, in the 3rd experimental group – 0,15 % of the feed weight. It was determined as a result of the studies that the concentration of total protein in the blood serum of chickens of the 1st control and experimental groups was within the normal range, but its higher level was recorded in the 2nd experimental group (47,5 g/l vs 45,6 g/l in the control). The content of blood protein fractions (albumins, α- and β-globulins) responsible for the transport of certain substances in the experimental groups was also higher (52,4 % of albumins in the 2nd experimental group and 42,5 % in the control) the content of protein fractions was calculated as % of the total protein level. Also, in the blood serum of experimental broiler chickens a higher content of free amino acids (both replaceable and nonreplaceable) was observed compared with the control group, which indicates a more intensive protein metabolism in broiler chickens in the 2nd and 3rd experimental groups. The amount of free amino acids in the blood serum of chickens in the 2nd and 3rd experimental groups exceeded the control group by 12,74 and 13,57 mg%, respectively.

Cecal Microbial Succession and Its Apparent Association with Nutrient Metabolism in Broiler Chickens.

The chicken gut microbiota plays an influential role in nutrient absorption and metabolism. A clear picture of microbiota succession can enhance host nutrition and disease resistance. This study investigated the cecal microbiota succession of broilers between 3 and 42 days after hatching using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and analyzed its potential association with intestinal nutrient metabolism. Microbiota structure differed significantly at different time points depending on the microbiota alpha-diversity or beta-diversity. Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes promoted succession on days 3 to 7 and days 28 to 35, respectively. Firmicutes and Tenericutes maintained homeostasis on days 7 to 28 and days 35 to 42. Shigella, [Ruminococcus], Erysipelotrichaceae_Clostridium, and Coprobacillus promoted succession on days 3 to 7; Faecalibacterium modified microbial composition on days 7 to 14; Faecalibacterium and Bacteroides regulated microbial structure from days 21 to 28. The microbiota structure was relatively stable on days 14 to 21 and days 28 to 35. Spearman's correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between Lactobacillus and villus height and crypt depth (P < 0.01). Faecalibacterium and Shigella were correlated with propionate, butyrate, and valerate concentrations (P < 0.01). Ruminococcus was correlated with sodium-glucose cotransporters 1 and cationic amino acid transporter 1 expression (P < 0.05). Erysipelotrichaceae_Clostridium and Shigella were positively correlated with serum levels of total cholesterol, tryglucerides, and high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.01). Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Shigella were correlated with serum VB6 levels (P < 0.01). Bacteroides, Erysipelotrichaceae_Clostridium, and Coprobacillus were correlated with the moisture content of cecal contents (P < 0.05). The identification of the microbiota in correlation with nutrient metabolism will promote microbial nutrition through microbiota intervention or nutritional regulation. IMPORTANCE The poultry industry has become a global leader in livestock farming over the past few decades. Poultry production has a large consumer market as an integrated industry producing high-protein foods. Establishing the association between microbiota and nutrient metabolism processes provides fresh insights for precise nutrient regulation. This study aimed to describe the development of cecal microbiota in broiler chickens throughout the production cycle and to assess the correlation of nutrient metabolism phenotypes with temporal changes in the microbiota. The results suggested that changes in cecal microbes with age partly explain changes in gut nutrient metabolic processes, and numerous microbes were significantly associated with the processes. Therefore, this study attempts to further find efficient ways of improving poultry production. One is to promote nutrient metabolism by identifying potential candidates for probiotics, and another is to foster the dominant colonization of the microbiota by regulating nutrient metabolism.

Supranutrition of microalgal docosahexaenoic acid and calcidiol improved growth performance, tissue lipid profiles, and tibia characteristics of broiler chickens

BackgroundDocosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and calcidiol could be enriched in chicken for improving public nutrition and health. It remains unclear if supranutritional levels of DHA and calcidiol impair growth performance or metabolism of broiler chickens. This study was to determine singular and combined effects of high levels of supplemental DHA-rich microalgal biomass or oil and calcidiol on growth performance, concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and nonesterfied fatty acids in plasma, liver, breast, and thigh, and biophysical properties of tibia.MethodsIn Exp. 1, 144 day-old Cornish chicks were divided into 4 groups (6 cages/treatment, 6 birds/cage), and were fed a corn-soybean meal basal diet (BD), BD + 10,000 IU calcidiol/kg (BD + Cal), BD + 1% DHA-rich Aurantiochytrium (1.2 g DHA/kg; BD + DHA), and BD + Cal + DHA for 6 weeks. In Exp. 2, 180 day-old chicks were divided into 5 groups, and were fed: BD, BD + DHA (0.33% to 0.66% oil, 1.5 to 3.0 g DHA/kg), BD + DHA + EPA (1.9% to 3.8% eicosapentaenoic acid-rich Nannochloropsis sp. CO18, 0.3 to 0.6 g EPA/kg), BD + DHA + calcidiol (6000 to 12,000 IU/kg diet), and BD + DHA + EPA + Cal for 6 weeks.ResultsBirds fed BD + Cal diet in Exp. 1 and BD + DHA + EPA diet in Exp. 2 had higher (P < 0.05) body weight gain (10%–11%) and gain:feed ratio (7%), and lower (P < 0.05) total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in plasma (18%–54%), liver (8%–26%), breast (19%–26%), and thigh (10%–19%), respectively, over the controls. The two diets also improved (P < 0.05) tibial breaking strength (8%–24%), total bone volume (2%–13%), and (or) bone mineral density (3%–19%) of chickens.ConclusionSupranutrition of dietary calcidiol and DHA alone or together did not produce adverse effects, but led to moderate improvements of growth performance, lipid profiles of plasma and muscle, and bone properties of broiler chickens.

Dietary Crude Protein Changes Rapidly Alter Metabolism and Plasma Insulin-Like Growth Factor I Concentrations in Broiler Chickens

Although changes in dietary crude protein levels change metabolism in broiler chickens, there is little information concerning the time course of the process of adaptation. Therefore, male Indian River broiler chickens were fed diets containing either 120 or 210 g protein/kg from 7 to 28 d of age and then were fed the other level for an additional 12 d. Birds were bled and killed at 0, 2, 5, 7, 9 and 12 d following the reversals. Measurements taken at these intervals included in vitro lipogenesis, growth and feed consumption, hepatic enzyme activities and plasma metabolites and metabolites. Birds fed the lower level of crude protein were smaller and less efficient in growth from 7 to 28 d. Feeding these birds a higher protein diet from 28 to 40 d improved both growth and feed efficiency. Lipogenesis was also greater and plasma insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) less in birds fed the lower protein diet. Switching dietary treatments increased and decreased lipogenesis as birds were switched from high to low protein and from low to high protein diets, respectively. Half-maximal changes were observed 4 d after the reversal and maximal changes 7 d after the reversal. In contrast, switching dietary treatments decreased and increased plasma IGF-I as birds were switched from high to low protein and from low to high protein diets, respectively. Half-maximal changes were observed 2 d after the reversal. Of the three hepatic enzymes monitored, malic enzyme activity most closely followed the rapid changes in in vitro lipogenesis. Plasma IGF-I may be a more sensitive indicator of changes in dietary protein than changes in intermediary metabolism.

Dietary supplementation of dimethyl itaconate protects against chronic heat stress-induced growth performance impairment and lipid metabolism disorder in broiler chickens.

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of dietary supplementation of dimethyl itaconate (DI) on chronic heat stress (HS)-induced impairment of the growth performance and lipid metabolism in broiler chickens. 21 days old male Ross 308 broiler chickens (a total of 120, about 700 g body weight) were randomly divided into five treatment groups, including control group, HS group, HS + 50 mg/kg DI group, HS + 150 mg/kg DI group, and HS + 200 mg/kg DI group, and each group contains eight cages of twenty-four broilers. The broiler chickens in the control group were raised in the room (21 ± 1 °C) and fed with a finisher diet for 21 days. The broiler chickens of the HS group and the HS + DI groups were raised in the room (32 ± 1 °C for 8 h/day) and fed with a finisher diet containing DI at 0, 50, 150, and 200 mg/kg diet for 21 days. The results showed that HS-induced decreases in the final body weight (P < 0.01), average daily gain (P < 0.01), and average daily feed intake (P < 0.01) were alleviated by dietary supplementation of DI (P < 0.05). In addition, dietary supplementation of DI attenuated the increases in the liver index (P < 0.01) and abdominal fat rate (P < 0.01) caused by HS in broilers (P < 0.05). Treatment with DI ameliorated HS-induced lipid accumulation in the liver and serum of broiler chickens (P < 0.05). The upregulation of mRNA levels of fat synthesis factors (P < 0.01) and downregulation of mRNA levels of lipolysis-related factors (P < 0.01) caused by HS were markedly blunted after treatment with DI in the liver of broilers (P < 0.05). Broilers exposed to HS exhibited lower phosphorylated protein levels of AMP-activated protein kinase α and acetyl-CoA carboxylase α compared to the control group (P < 0.01), which were improved by treatment with DI (P < 0.01). Collectively, these results demonstrated that dietary supplementation of DI protects against chronic HS-induced growth performance impairment and lipid metabolism disorder in broiler chickens. These results not only provide a theoretical basis for DI to alleviate metabolic disorders but also provide a reference value for DI as a feed additive to improve heat stress in poultry caused by high temperature.

Effects of Tributyrin Supplementation on Liver Fat Deposition, Lipid Levels and Lipid Metabolism-Related Gene Expression in Broiler Chickens.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of tributyrin supplementation on liver fat metabolism in broiler chickens. Two hundred and forty broilers were randomly allocated into two experimental groups (6 replicates per treatment; 20 chickens in each replicate): the control group (CN), which received a basal diet, and the tributyrin group (TB), which received a basal diet supplemented with 1 g/kg of tributyrin. The experimental period lasted 37 days. The results showed that in the liver, broilers supplemented with tributyrin had higher content of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p < 0.05). Liver hepatic lipase (HL), lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and total lipid (TL) activity were significantly lower than in the TB group than that in the NC group. Meanwhile, the diet supplemented with tributyrin had more lipid droplets than the NC group, whereas the TB and NC groups showed no histological abnormalities in the liver. Furthermore, the mRNA expression levels of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor α (PPARα), proliferators-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), fatty acid synthase (FAS), LPL and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) in the liver were significantly upregulated in the TB group (p < 0.05), while those of the long-chain acyl-CoA-synthetase 1 (ACSL1) mRNA between the TB group and the NC group were not different (p > 0.05). These findings indicated that the diet supplemented with tributyrin could increase fat deposition appropriately by promoting fat synthesis without causing liver tissue damage, which demonstrated that tributyrin can be considered a valid feed additive for broiler chickens.

Dietary supplementation with perillartine ameliorates lipid metabolism disorder induced by a high-fat diet in broiler chickens

Lipid metabolism disorders affect the growth and jeopardize the health of poultry, thus, decreasing economic benefits. Perillartine, a sweetener derived from Perilla frutescens, has excellent potential in regulating lipid metabolism. In this study, we explored the effects of perillartine on lipid metabolism in broiler chickens by establishing a nonalcoholic fatty liver model induced by a high-fat diet. By using network pharmacology and molecular docking, we analyzed the potential molecular targets and pathways through which perillartine regulates lipid metabolism and alleviates fatty liver. Perillartine was found to regulate the expression of genes associated with lipogenesis, lipolysis, and lipid transport, including FASN, PPARα, CPT-1, ACCα, APOB, and APOA1 in the liver, and to decrease lipid accumulation in the liver and blood in broilers without affecting growth performance. In addition, we discovered 24 candidate targets of perillartine, including SRD5A2 and XDH, through network pharmacology analysis and successfully constructed a compound-target-pathway-disease network. Our results suggested that perillartine may be a promising, long-lasting therapeutic molecule for modulating lipid metabolism disorders in broilers.

Effect of Eucommia ulmoides Leaf Extract on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Parameters of Oxidative Stress, and Lipid Metabolism in Broiler Chickens.

Eucommia ulmoides bark has been traditionally used as a Chinese medicine to attenuate stress, but the leaf, which is rich in polyphenols and polysaccharides, has been rarely used. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Eucommia ulmoides leaf extracts (EULEs) on oxidative stress and meat quality of broilers. A total of 252 broilers were randomly divided into 3 treatments and fed with a control basal diet (CON), or a diet containing 250 mg/kg or 1,000 mg/kg of EULE for 51 days. Results showed that dietary supplementation of 250 mg/kg EULE increased significantly the average daily gain of broilers in the early stage (1–21 days), while 250 mg/kg or 1,000 mg/kg of EULE decreased the feed conversion ratio in the whole period (P < 0.05). Supplementation of 250 mg/kg EULE reduced the level of MDA in the liver (P < 0.05), while 1,000 mg/kg EULE decreased the serum level of MDA (P < 0.05), and the HDL level in serum was increased by 250 mg/kg or 1,000 mg/kg EULE (P < 0.05). Additionally, 250 mg/kg EULE decreased abdominal fat ratio and serum triglyceride (TC) level in broilers, while 250 or 1,000 mg/kg of EULE reduced drip loss in breast muscle (P < 0.05), and 1,000 mg/kg EULE reduced the cooking loss in thigh muscle (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 250 mg/kg of EULE could attenuate oxidative stress and improve the growth performance and meat quality in broilers.

Enteromorpha polysaccharide and yeast glycoprotein mixture improves growth, antioxidant activity, serum lipid profile and regulates lipid metabolism in broiler chickens

This study aimed to analyze the growth performance, antioxidant activity, serum lipid profile, meat quality, and lipid metabolism of broiler chickens fed mixtures containing Enteromorpha polysaccharide (EP) and yeast glycoprotein (YG). A total of 400 one-day-old broiler chickens were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups of 10 replicates with 10 birds each replicate. The dietary treatments consisted of the control group (fed basal diet), and diets supplemented with Enteromorpha polysaccharide (EP; 400 mg/kg), yeast glycoprotein (YG;400 mg/kg), and EP+YG (200 mg/kg EP + 200 mg/kg YG). Compared with the control group, EP+YG supplementation enhanced growth performance and significantly reduced (P < 0.05) serum total triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (CHOL), and low-density lipoprotein LDL levels, and increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Besides, birds fed EP+YG supplemented diet exhibited higher (P < 0.05) serum catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and lower malonaldehyde (MDA) activities, and upregulated expressions of related genes, such as nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), SOD1, and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in the liver and intestinal tissues than the control group. Interestingly, higher (P < 0.05) serum SOD and lower MDA contents were observed in the EP+YG group than in either EP or YG group, suggesting a synergetic effect. Breast meat from EP+YG supplemented group had significantly higher redness value (a*), and lower pH24, total saturated fatty acid profiles, C14:0, C16:0, C18:0 fatty acid, atherogenic index, and thrombogenicity index than meat from the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the mRNA expressions of fatty acid synthesis genes were downregulated (P < 0.05), whereas lipid β-oxidation-related genes were upregulated (P < 0.05) in the liver of the EP+YG supplemented group than in the control group. Overall, our data suggest that dietary EP+YG inclusion may have a synergistic effect, and therefore improve growth performance, regulate serum biochemical indexes, enhance antioxidant activity, and modulate lipid metabolism in broilers, indicating that it is a potential feed additive for chickens.