Poultry Health Research Articles

Impact of Dried Thyme Leaf Meal on Production Performance, Egg Quality and Blood Parameters of Laying Hens.

The use of commercially extracted phytogenic compounds to maintain poultry health and productivity in the absence of in-feed antibiotics is prohibitively costly in developing countries. The goal of the study is to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with Thymus schimperi leaf meal (TLM) on production performance, egg quality and haemato-biochemical parameters of Bovan brown layers. A total of 96 laying hens at 25 weeks of age were randomly assigned to 4 treatments with 6 replications each. The treatments include the control (standard commercial laying diet), TLM1.5 (control+1.5% TLM), TLM2.5 (control+2.5% TLM) and TLM3.5 (control+3.5% TLM). Egg production, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were recorded for each replicate. Two eggs per replication were used to measure internal and external egg quality traits on a monthly basis. At the end of the trial, blood samples were collected from 2 birds/replicate for the determination of albumin, uric acid, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, luteinizing hormone, prolactin and progesterone. All blood parameters were within the normal ranges of the breed. Egg production, feed conversion ratio, internal egg quality traits and external egg quality traits of hens fed diets containing 2.5% TLM were significantly higher than the control. Furthermore, diets containing 2.5% TLM led to a significantly reduced feed conversion ratio compared to all other dietary treatments. In conclusion, 2.5% TML is recommended to improve egg production and egg quality without adverse effect on hen health.

Optimizing selenium-enriched yeast supplementation in laying hens: Enhancing egg quality, selenium concentration in eggs, antioxidant defense, and liver health

This study evaluated the effects of selenium-enriched yeast (SY) supplementation at various levels on health and production parameters in laying hens, including egg production, egg quality, selenium (Se) concentrations in eggs, liver health, serum biochemical markers, antioxidant function, and immune responses. A total of 360 Hy-Line Brown hens (28 weeks old) were randomly assigned to four dietary groups with six replicates of 15 birds each, monitored over a 12-week feeding trial after a two-week acclimatization period. The dietary groups included a control (basal diet without selenium) and three SY-supplemented groups with Se levels of 0.3 mg/kg (SY03), 1.5 mg/kg (SY15), and 6.0 mg/kg (SY60). The results showed no significant effects of dietary SY on laying performance or feed efficiency (P > 0.05). However, the SY15 group showed significant improvements in egg quality, particularly in albumen height, Haugh Unit and yolk color (P < 0.05). Selenium concentrations in eggs, albumen, and yolk increased dose-dependently, with significant differences in the SY-supplemented groups (P < 0.001). Increased activities of liver enzymes including alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and aspartate transaminase, alongside elevated levels of uric acid were notable in the SY60 group (P < 0.05). In addition, histological analysis revealed significant hepatocyte degeneration and a higher liver organ index (P < 0.05), in the SY60 group. All of which suggests potential liver toxicity at higher selenium levels. Antioxidant capacity of the birds were significantly enhanced due to dietary supplementation of SY as indicated by increased serum levels of total antioxidant capacity, and activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05). Analysis of hepatic genes expression revealed that SY15 supplementation significantly upregulated key antioxidant-related genes (Nrf2, HO-1, CAT, and NQO1) and downregulated Keap1 expression (P < 0.05), suggesting strong activation of the antioxidant defense system. In conclusion, SY supplementation at 1.5 mg/kg improved egg quality, increased Se concentrations in eggs, and enhanced antioxidant capacity without affecting laying performance or liver health. This makes it a balanced approach to improving egg quality and poultry health. However, higher supplementation levels (6.0 mg/kg) resulted in liver damage, underscoring the importance of careful dosage consideration.

The effect of group size and laying month on the quality, IgG, and corticosterone levels of goose eggs

Abstract. Environmental stress is known to negatively affect poultry health, production, and egg quality. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of two different group sizes and the laying month on egg quality characteristics as well as the effect of group size on corticosterone and IgG levels in goose eggs. The research was conducted on a semi-free-range goose breeder farm in Hajdú–Bihar county, Hungary. The eggs included in the analysis were produced by 4-year-old geese of the Grimaud breed. Two group sizes were constructed; the large group contained 850 birds; and there were three small groups, each containing 50 geese as replicates. The effect of the laying month and group size on egg quality parameters and the effect of group size on egg IgG and corticosterone contents were investigated. Eggs laid in January at the peak of production and at the end of February (low-production period) were involved in the study. Regarding the effect of months, we noticed a decrease in egg width (from 6.12 to 5.98 cm), shell thickness (from 0.76 to 0.61 mm at the blunt end, from 0.69 to 0.61 mm at the equator, and from 0.65 to 0.56 mm at the pointed end), shell weight (from 19.56 to 18.19 g), yolk weight (from 69.05 to 62.35 g), yolk ratio (from 36.45 % to 34.43 %), yolk diameter (from 7.09 to 6.59 cm), and yolk colour with fan (from 12.58 to 11.83) and b∗ (from 54.57 to 49.91) (P ≤ 0.05). The albumen ratio and yolk pH increased from 53.24 % to 55.51 % and from 6.18 to 6.29 from January to February, respectively. Regarding group size, the albumen pH (8.77 vs. 8.67), IgG (4955 vs. 3823 ng mL−1), and corticosterone (187.26 vs. 76.24 ng mL−1) levels were higher in the small groups (P ≤ 0.05).

Plants, plant‐derived compounds, probiotics, and postbiotics as green agents to fight against poultry coccidiosis: A review

AbstractThe intestinal tract is the main place for animals to digest food and absorb nutrients, which also serves as the first line of defense against pathogens that invade the internal environment. Therefore, normal intestinal structure and function are essential for animal health. Poultry coccidiosis is an intestinal disease primarily caused by the parasitization of intestinal epithelial cells by protozoa of the genus Eimeria. The occurrence of coccidiosis not only compromises the intestinal integrity of poultry but also increases their disease susceptibility, thus posing a serious threat to the overall health and productivity of poultry. Nowadays, the primary methods for controlling and preventing coccidiosis in poultry are anticoccidial drugs or live oocyst vaccines. However, the use of the former may be associated with problems of resistance and drug residues, while the use of the latter may cause intestinal damage and significantly increase farming costs. For these reasons, it is critical to investigate green, safe, and cost‐effective natural alternative strategies such as phytochemicals and probiotics for controlling coccidiosis as well as mitigating the deleterious effects of coccidial infections in production. In this review, we aim to summarize the role, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of natural products in the treatment of coccidiosis to lay a theoretical foundation for effective coccidiosis control.

Hatching Egg Sanitizers Based on Essential Oils: Microbiological Parameters, Hatchability, and Poultry Health.

Background: Eggshell contamination threatens the viability of hatching eggs. This contamination can be caused by harmless, opportunistic, or pathogenic bacteria. Although necessary, the use of synthetic antibiotics to treat eggshells can present several significant problems: They can be toxic and damage the shell, and, most worryingly, they can lead to bacterial resistance. Faced with these challenges, the objective of this research was to create and test a sanitizing plan for hatching eggs using essential oils derived from Citrus aurantifolia (CAEO), Ocimum basilicum (OBEO), or Allium sativum (ASEO). Methods: Sanitizing solutions containing specific concentrations of these essential oils were prepared, and their antimicrobial properties and contributions to poultry safety and hatching parameters were investigated. Results: The bacterial load was reduced in eggshells sanitized with essential oils, and the degree of bacterial inhibition, along with their safety profile, may be directly related to optimal hatchability rates, lower incidences of contaminated dead embryos, and the hatching of healthy chicks. Conclusions: Together, these results reinforce the importance of essential oils in the development of effective and safe treatments for managing hatching eggs.

Unveiling the role of long non-coding RNAs in chicken immune response to highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 infection

Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) pose a significant threat to global poultry production, necessitating effective control strategies to mitigate economic losses and ensure animal welfare. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators of immune responses, yet their roles in AIV-infected chickens remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the expression profiles of lncRNAs and their targets in Vietnamese Ri chickens infected with the highly pathogenic AIV (HPAIV) H5N1. Through RNA sequencing, we identified novel lncRNAs and analyzed differentially expressed (DE) transcripts at 1 and 3 days post-infection (dpi) in chicken lung tissue. Our results revealed a higher number of DE lncRNAs and mRNAs at 1 dpi and 3 dpi, respectively, compared to control, with resistant chickens exhibiting a notably stronger immune response than susceptible chickens at 3 dpi. Functional analysis implicated these lncRNAs in immune-related pathways crucial for host responses to H5N1 viral infection. Furthermore, we identified lncRNA–mRNA interactions associated with antiviral responses and immune function. Notably, several genes involved in antiviral resistance and immune responses showed higher expression in resistant chickens, confirming their stronger antiviral response. Overall, our study provides insights into the role of lncRNAs in the host's response to HPAIV H5N1 infection in chickens and highlights potential candidates for further investigation into host–pathogen interactions. These findings could drive the development of novel control strategies for AIVs, significantly enhancing poultry health and biosecurity.

The inhibitory effect of Hypericum japonicum on H9N2 avian influenza virus

The H9N2 subtype of avian influenza virus (AIV) causes severe immunosuppression and high mortality in view of its frequent co-infection with other pathogens, resulting in significant economic losses in the poultry industry. Current vaccines provide suboptimal immune protection against H9N2 AIV owing to antigenic variations, highlighting the urgent need for safe and effective antiviral drugs for the prevention and treatment of this virus. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of Hypericum japonicum extract on H9N2 AIV. Our findings revealed that the extract obtained through resin column separation using 60% ethanol (S06-60%) inhibited H9N2 AIV replication in Madin-Daby canine kidney cells in a dose-dependent manner. The maximum safe concentration of the water-soluble S06-60% extract was determined to be 0.05 mg/mL. Time-course experiments indicated that S06-60% primarily exerted its antiviral effects during the viral pretreatment and adsorption stages. Furthermore, in vivo experiments conducted on specific pathogen-free chickens confirmed the effectiveness of S06-60% in inhibiting H9N2 AIV infection and mitigating associated damage to tracheal and lung tissues. Overall, our study highlights the therapeutic potential of Hypericum japonicum extract S06-60% as a viable antiviral candidate against H9N2 AIV, offering promising implications for its application in poultry health management to reduce the economic impact on the poultry industry.

Biosensors for Monitoring, Detecting, and Tracking Dissemination of Poultry-Borne Bacterial Pathogens Along the Poultry Value Chain: A Review.

The poultry industry plays a crucial role in global food production, with chickens being the most widely consumed as a rich protein source. However, infectious diseases pose significant threats to poultry health, underscoring the need for rapid and accurate detection to enable timely intervention. In recent years, biosensors have emerged as essential tools to facilitate routine surveillance on poultry farms and rapid screening at slaughterhouses. These devices provide producers and veterinarians with timely information, thereby promoting proactive disease management. Biosensors have been miniaturized, and portable platforms allow for on-site testing, thereby enhancing biosecurity measures and bolstering disease surveillance networks throughout the poultry supply chain. Consequently, biosensors represent a transformative advancement in poultry disease management, offering rapid and precise detection capabilities that are vital for safeguarding poultry health and ensuring sustainable production systems. This section offers an overview of biosensors and their applications in detecting poultry diseases, with a particular emphasis on enteric pathogens.

The vital role of melatonin in the intestinal mucosal barrier integrity in chick

BackgroundThe intestinal tract, as the main place for nutrient digestion and absorption, is closely related to the health of livestock and poultry. Melatonin secreted by the pineal gland acts as an endocrine transport signaling molecule to regulate intestinal function. However, the effect on intestinal function after pineal removal is unclear. MethodsWe raised 24 chicks under 400-700 nm white light with or without pinealectomy for 21 days. We used electron microscopy, HE staining, PAS staining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining and western blot to detect intestinal physical and to explore the effect of melatonin secreted by the pineal gland on the intestinal mucosa barrier function. ResultsThe results showed that after pineal gland removal, the structure of the intestinal villi is severely damaged. Moreover, there was an obviously down-regulation in the villi length, the number of goblet cells and and its secretion of MUC2 protein, the expression level of tight junction proteins (Occludin and ZO-1) and lysozyme secreted by paneth cells, number of PCNA positive cells and macrophage, and an up-regualtion in crypt depth and apoptosis level after pinealectomy, suggesting pinealectomy-mediated melatonin level decrease damaged the intestinal physical, chemical and immune barriers. ConclusionOur findings provide new theoretical support for the future use of melatonin in intestinal development and new ideas about the relationship between endocrine hormone and intestinal physiology.

Comparative analysis of innate immune responses in Sonali and broiler chickens infected with tribasic H9N2 low pathogenic avian influenza virus

BackgroundH9N2 avian influenza viruses have been circulating in Bangladesh since 2006, affecting multiple avian species and resulting in economic losses. The recent emergence of tribasic strains, along with co-infections, has increased the risk to poultry health. Therefore, the study aimed to compare the immune responses of Sonali (crossbred) and commercial broiler chickens infected with tribasic H9N2 low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus.MethodsFollowing H9N2 infection, proinflammatory (IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β and TNF-α) and antiviral (IFN-β and IFN-γ) cytokine expressions were observed in the trachea, lungs, intestine, and lymphoid tissues in Sonali and broiler chickens from 1 day post infection (dpi) to 10 dpi by qPCR.ResultsSonali chickens exhibited significantly higher proinflammatory and antiviral cytokine expressions in the trachea at 3–7 days post infection (dpi), while broiler chickens showed lower immune responses. Broiler chickens displayed prolonged IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1β expression in lungs at 3–10 dpi compared to Sonali chickens. In the intestine, broiler chickens showed higher IL-6 and IL-8 expression that peaks at 1–3 dpi, while in Sonali chickens only IL-1β elevated at 10 dpi. In response to the H9N2 viruses, broiler chickens exhibited a stronger early IFN-β responses and a delayed IFN-γ responses in their lymphoid organs compared to Sonali chickens.ConclusionThis suggests distinct immune profiles between the chicken types in response to the H9N2 infection. The information sheds light on the function of innate immunity in the pathophysiology of currently circulating tribasic H9N2 virus and could assist in effective controlling of avian influenza virus spread in poultry and designing vaccines.

Alteration in the Gut Microbiota of Chickens Resistant to Eimeria tenella Infection.

Avian coccidiosis, caused by several species of Eimeria, is a widespread and economically important poultry disease that inflicts severe losses in the poultry industry. Understanding the interplay between Eimeria and gut microbiota is critical for controlling coccidiosis and developing innovative treatments to ensure good poultry health. In the present study, chickens were immunized six times with a low dose of Eimeria tenella, resulting in complete immunity against Eimeria infection. The results of fecal microbiota transplantation showed that the gut microbiota of immunized chickens induced a certain degree of resistance to coccidial infection. To investigate the types of intestinal microbiota involved in the development of resistance to Eimeria, the intestinal contents and fecal samples from both immunized and unimmunized groups were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed that, at the genus level, the abundance of the Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group, Erysipelatoclostridium, Shuttleworthia, and Colidextribacter was significantly increased in the intestinal content of immunized chickens, whereas the abundance of Eisenbergiella was significantly decreased. In fecal samples, the abundance of Clostridiaceae and Muribaculaceae significantly increased, whereas that of Bacillales significantly decreased. These findings will help to elucidate the interactions between E. tenella and the gut microbiota of chickens, providing a basis for isolating E. tenella-resistant strains from the gut microbiome and developing new vaccines against coccidiosis.

Kicking Newcastle Disease in Poultry: The Therapeutic Potential of a Herbal Blend of Christmas Melon, Aloe Vera, Chili, and Ash Extract

Newcastle Disease (ND) is a highly contagious viral infection that causes substantial mortality and economic losses in poultry, particularly in resource-limited settings like rural Uganda. This study explores the therapeutic potential of a herbal blend composed of Christmas melon, aloe vera, chili, and ash extract as an alternative or adjunct treatment for ND in poultry. Grounded in Integrative Medicine Theory (IMT), which emphasizes the synergy between conventional and traditional medical approaches, the study investigates the effectiveness of this herbal remedy in both treating and preventing ND. The results, based on personal case studies and a larger preventive trial, demonstrate a high recovery rate in affected birds and successful prevention in exposed flocks. Notably, six out of seven birds treated for ND showed full recovery, and no new ND cases emerged in the preventive trial involving 1,654 layers. However, a slight decrease in egg production was observed in treated layers, signaling a potential side effect that warrants further research. This study underscores the viability of herbal remedies in managing ND in areas where conventional treatments may be limited or inaccessible, providing a holistic, farmer-centered, and cost-effective solution to poultry health management in rural African settings. While promising, further research is needed to optimize dosage, assess long-term safety, and minimize adverse effects.

Genetic and pathogenic potential of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 viruses from live bird markets in Egypt in avian and mammalian models

Since its first isolation from migratory birds in Egypt in 2016, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N8 has caused several outbreaks among domestic poultry in various areas of the country affecting poultry health and production systems. However, the genetic and biological properties of the H5N8 HPAI viruses have not been fully elucidated yet. In this study, we aimed to monitor the evolution of circulating H5N8 viruses and identify the pathogenicity and mammalian adaptation in vitro and in vivo. Three H5N8 HPAI viruses were used in this study and were isolated in 2021–2022 from poultry and wild birds during our routine surveillance. RNA extracts were subjected to full genome sequencing. Genetic, phylogenetic, and antigenic analyses were performed to assess viral characteristics and similarities to previously isolated viruses. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the hemagglutinin genes of the three isolates belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b and grouped with the 2019 viruses from G3 with high similarity to Russian and European lineages. Multiple basic amino acids were observed at cleavage sites in the hemagglutinin proteins of the H5N8 isolates, indicating high pathogenicity. In addition, several mutations associated with increased virulence and polymerase activity in mammals were observed. Growth kinetics assays showed that the H5N8 isolate is capable of replicating efficiently in mammalian cells lines. In vivo studies were conducted in SPF chickens (White Leghorn), mice, and hamsters to compare the virological characteristics of the 2022 H5N8 isolates with previous H5N8 viruses isolated in 2016 from the first introduction. The H5N8 viruses caused lethal infection in all tested chickens and transmitted by direct contact. However, we showed that the 2016 H5N8 virus causes a higher mortality in chickens compared to 2022 H5N8 virus. Moreover, the 2022 virus can replicate efficiently in hamsters and mice without preadaptation causing systemic infection. These findings underscore the need for continued surveillance of H5 viruses to identify circulating strains, determine the commercial vaccine’s effectiveness, and identify zoonotic potential.

Effects of high-dose glucose oxidase on broiler growth performance, antioxidant function, and intestinal microbiota in broilers.

Glucose oxidase (GOD) has been investigated as a potential additive for enhancing intestinal health and growth performance in poultry. However, limited research exists on the effects of ultra-high doses of GOD in practical poultry production. This study aimed to investigate the impact of high dietary GOD levels on broiler growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbiota. A total of 400 healthy, 1-day-old, slow-growing broiler chickens were randomly assigned to four treatment groups. The control group was fed a standard basal diet, while the other groups (G1, G2, and G3) were fed the basal diet supplemented with 4 U/g, 20 U/g, and 100 U/g of VTR GOD, respectively. The results showed that a dose of 100 U/g GOD significantly improved the final body weight and average daily feed intake (ADFI) (p < 0.05). Additionally, the G3 group exhibited a marked increase in glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity (p < 0.05), reflecting enhanced antioxidant function. Gut morphology remained intact across all groups, indicating no adverse effects on intestinal barrier integrity. Microbiota analysis revealed significant increases (p < 0.05) in Firmicutes and Verrucomicrobiota abundance at the phylum level in the GOD-supplemented groups. Moreover, GOD treatments significantly increased the abundance of Faecalibacterium, Mucispirllum, and CHKCI001 at the genus level. Metabolic function predictions suggested that high-dose GOD supplementation enriched carbohydrate metabolism, particularly starch and sucrose metabolism. Correlation analysis indicated that Faecalibacterium and CHCKI001 were two bacteria strongly influenced by GOD supplementation and were associated with enhanced growth performance and improved gut health. In conclusion, high-dose GOD supplementation had no adverse effects and demonstrated significant benefits, promoting both growth performance and gut health in broilers.

Seroprevalence of avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) among pullet and layer hens in Northern Thailand.

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) poses a significant global threat to the respiratory and reproductive systems of poultry, yet its prevalence and impact in specific regions, such as northern Thailand, remain understudied. This study is the first comprehensive assessment of aMPV seroprevalence among layer hens in the region. By the application of Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), our findings reveal a high overall seroprevalence of 60.78%, with significantly higher rates among post-laying hens (70.87%) compared to pre-laying hens (47.02%). Regional variations were noted, Uttaradit province showing the highest seroprevalence at 74%. Factors such as overcrowded conditions and poor farm hygiene were implied as contributors to increased seropositivity. Comparison with global studies highlights aMPV's endemicity and emphasizes the need for targeted surveillance and biosecurity measures. Migratory birds were inferred as potential vectors, contributing to the spread of aMPV across different regions. This study provides crucial epidemiological data essential for optimizing vaccination strategies and enhancing disease management practices to safeguard poultry health and sustainable production in northern Thailand.

Evaluating the Potential of Marine Algae as Sustainable Ingredients in Poultry Feed

Algae are a complex source of crucial nutrients, including proteins, minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates. The use of marine algae, specifically Sargassum species, Gracilaria species, and Spirulina species, as feed ingredients in poultry feed was examined in the current research. This study’s aims were to carry out lipid profiling, proximate analysis, and heavy metal toxicity testing, as well as to evaluate the presence of hazardous hydrocarbons in the algae and investigate the effect of the fatty acid profile of Sargassum species on broilers. The proximate analysis was conducted on the algae types containing considerable quantities of fats and proteins and a sizable quantity of omega-3 fatty acids. This research assessed the productive effectiveness of broilers with 2.5%, 6%, and 10% algal additions in their diet. Fatty acid profiling of Sargassum species was performed at 1% and 2% levels in the bursa, fat pads, heart, liver, spleen, thymus, thighs, and breast. The findings showed no significant differences in the development performance or feed utilization efficiency of broilers with 2.5%, 6%, and 10% algae supplementation in their diet. The results of fatty acid profiling showed changes in the heart, liver, and spleen at 1% and 2% supplementations levels. However, this research concludes that if algae partially replaces the imported feed proteins used in animal feed, then these can achieve maximum beneficial effects on poultry health and performance. Algae are sustainable, easy to produce, and cost-effective sources of nutrients and contain numerous bioactive compounds, which will contribute to sustainability and food safety.

Evaluating fructose content in poultry feed: electrochemical insights

AbstractThe global demand for poultry meat has increased, but consumers have become more picky in their nutritional choices. The fat content of poultry meat has risen since genetic advancement has resulted in higher rates of body weight gain and fat deposition, which are closely linked. The increase in further processing for fast-food poultry items has resulted in larger birds with more body fat. Usually, carbohydrates are used for easy weight gain in poultry. This study focuses on the electrochemical detection of fructose as a feed additive in poultry. The catalyst used was silver–silver oxide–zinc oxide (Ag–AgO–ZnO) and it was prepared by sol–gel method. Further, the surface morphology of the catalyst was analysed using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (XRD, FTIR and TEM). Cyclic voltammetry was carried out to find out the effectiveness of this catalyst in detecting fructose and our results revealed a sensitivity of 0.3 M with an electrochemical current of 1 mA cm−2, indicating the effectiveness of the chosen electrochemical approach. And further investigation was carried out to monitor effects of various parameters including scan rate, catalyst loading and fructose concentration. This research contributes valuable insights into assessing fructose levels in poultry feed, with potential implications for optimising nutritional formulations and enhancing overall poultry health. The electrochemical method demonstrates promise as a reliable tool for sensitively analysing fructose in feed additives. Precision and accuracy assessments further underscore the reliability of our electrochemical approach in differentiating fructose content within the poultry feed matrix. Graphical Abstract

Ammonia Exposure-Induced Immunological Damage in Chicken Lymphoid Organs via TLR-7/MYD88/NF-κB Signaling Pathway and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation.

Ammonia (NH3) is a hazardous gas that pollutes the environment and causes irritation. Its harmful effects on chickens, including its impact on their immune system, have previously been observed. However, the mechanism by which NH3 exposure causes immune system disorders in chickens remains unclear. The bursa of Fabricius (BF) and thymus are the two main lymphoid organs responsible for the proliferation, differentiation, and selection of B- and T-lymphocytes, both critical for the innate immune response of the host. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of NH3-induced immune dysregulation in broiler chickens. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed swollen mitochondria and breakage of the large crista lining, membrane deformation, chromatin condensation, increased vacuolation, and blood vessel spasms in the NH3-exposed BF and thymus tissues. Immunofluorescent analysis showed clustering of CD4+ and CD8+ cells, indicating an active immune response to NH3 exposure. Furthermore, NH3 exposure enhanced the mRNA expressions of Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR-7), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MYD88), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), along with their proteins, and led to activation of the TLR-7/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway and NLRP3 inflammasome in chicken thymus tissues. Both mRNA and protein levels of key inflammation-related genes and proteins were upregulated in the NH3-treated group, highlighting a robust inflammatory response due to NH3 exposure. The specific findings of significant structural damage to key lymphoid organs and activation of inflammatory pathways in broiler chickens upon NH3 exposure can provide guidance for future, targeted therapies to improve poultry health.

Layer segmented filamentous bacteria colonize and impact gut health of broiler chickens.

In commercial poultry farms, chicks hatch away from their progenitors from which they acquire key host-specific microbiota, like segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB) involved in gut maturation in early life. This study investigated whether providing chicken SFB to newly hatched broilers would increase their gut maturation and resistance to bacteria relevant to broiler and human health. One-day-old Ross308 broilers were orally treated with either phosphate-buffered saline (CON) or layer-derived SFB (D-SFB). On days 5, 10, 17, and 24, feces were collected to detect and enumerate SFB and Enterobacteriaceae. On days 8, 15, 22, and 29, birds were euthanized, intestinal samples were collected to detect and enumerate SFB through quantitative PCR (qPCR) and microscopy and expression of genes associated with gut immune function through reverse transcription-qPCR. This study showed that, despite their host specificity, layer SFB can colonize their genetically distinct relative broilers. Ileal SFB colonization was accelerated by a week with the SFB treatment and covered the proximal, medial, and distal sections of the ileum. Colonization of the ileum by SFB in early life highly activated gene expression of intestinal barrier proteins and cytokines, e.g., IL-10 and IFNγ but not IL-17. SFB treatment reduced the level of Enterobacteriaceae in the gut and provided superior resistance to intestinal and extraintestinal pathogens as tested in vitro. Overall, early gut colonization of SFB is imperative for the maturation of the gut immune system and the establishment of a homeostatic gut environment. Improving our understanding of gut immune maturation in food-producing animals is crucial for both human and animal health.IMPORTANCEIn commercial farms, newly hatched chicks may lack host-specific microbiota that help mature their gut immune system for lifelong health benefits. Here, introducing an avian segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB) to commercially sourced chickens orally at hatch accelerated SFB colonization of the ileum. Remarkably, SFB from layers were able to colonize broilers and enhance gut immune maturation, and this immunomodulation impacted the ability to increase intestinal and extraintestinal resistance to bacteria relevant to poultry and human health. With the antibiotic restrictions in animal production, strategies that will help mitigate infections are urgently needed. In summary, we developed a live prophylactic for newly hatched chicks to improve animal health and food safety. Due to the host specificity of SFB, our data highlight the importance of investigating the molecular mechanism of SFB interaction in their own host.

Regulation Progression on Ellagic Acid Improving Poultry Production Performance by Regulating Redox Homeostasis, Inflammatory Response, and Cell Apoptosis.

It has been approximately 2000 years since the medicinal homologous theory, which primarily holds that food has the same therapeutic value as medicine in order to improve the health of both humans and animals. In recent years, this theory has also been proposed to be used in poultry breeding. Ellagic acid (EA), a natural compound primarily extracted from medicinal homologous foods such as raspberries and pomegranates, is reported to have incomparable advantages in improving the production performance and disease resistance of poultry due to its pharmacological properties, which regulate the processes of redox homeostasis, inflammatory response, and cell apoptotic death. However, the application and research of EA in poultry production are still in the initial stage, and the potential mechanisms of its biological functions affecting animal health have not been clearly identified, which requires more attention worldwide. This mini-review collects the latest 10-year achievements of research on the effects of EA on poultry health, aiming to promote the practical application of EA in maintaining animal health and formulating corresponding targeted strategies.