Relative Weight Of Lymphoid Organs Research Articles

Effect of feeding chitosan and blend of essential organic acids on growth performance, haematological parameters and innate immunity in early aged male layer chicks.

The use of antibiotics as conventional feed additives in poultry operations have proven useful, however resulted serious health concerns to consumer due to their bio-accumulation, besides rising problem of antimicrobial resistance in microbes, thus, an alternative to antibiotic growth promoter have called for. One of the aim of the experiment was to assess the lone and combined effects of feeding of chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) and blend of organic acids and short chain fatty acids in essential oils on growth performance, haematological parameters, relative lymphoid organ weight and innate immunity in early aged layer chick(male birds). A total of ninety, day-old chicks were randomly allotted into five groups: CO, Control group fed only poultry feed ; AGP, antibiotic growth promoter fed Avilomycin at the dose of 200mg/kg of poultry feed; CH, chitosan oligosaccharide fed at the rate of 100mg/kg feed; OE, blend of organic acids and short chain fatty acids in essential oils contained 1000 to 2000mg/kg feed in a graded dose per week and CH + OE, chitosan oligosaccharide plus blend of organic acids and short chain fatty acids in essential oils at consistent rate and manner as followed for each of given feed additives when fed individually. Data on growth performance, samples for haematological parameters and innate immunity were measured and assayed on 7th, 21st and 42nd day post feeding (dpf) respectively. The results showed that compared with the control group; there is a marginal gain in body weight at 7th and 21st dpf in CH group and the corresponding CH + OE group. Feed conversion ratio in CH group was remarkably good at 7th and 21st dpf. No significant difference was observed in relative organ weights of thymus, spleen and Bursa of Fabricius in treatment groups as compared to control birds; however a significant rise in splenic weight index in OE fed birds at 42nd dpf noted. Haematological changes were inconsequential in treatment groups with an exception to enhancement of heterophil to lymphocyte ratio (H:L ratio) in CH group at 42nd dpf. Serum lysozyme activity proportionately elevated in CH + OE group on 21st and 42nd dpf when measured against control group; on the other hand no detectable augmentation of gut lysozyme activity observed. Both serum bactericidal and gut bactericidal activity boosted in combinatorial group at 42nd dpf. These results indicated that early age feeding of chitosan individually or combination with organic acids and short chain fatty acids in layer chick is beneficial, as it has the potential to enhance body weight gain to some extent and improves systemic and localized innate immunity to offer protection against infectious assaults thus may avoid early chick mortality in farms.

Effect of citrus peeling (Citrus sinensis) on production performance, humoral immunity, nutrients, and energy utilization of broiler quails

Citrus citrus peeling has a wide range of vitamins and trace minerals that have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It is hypothesized that the addition of citrus peeling to broiler quail diets can improve their production performance, humoral immunity, nutrients, and energy utilization. A trial was performed to study the impact of a methanolic extract of citrus peeling (Citrus sinensis) on production performance, humoral immunity, nutrients, and energy utilization of broiler quails. A healthy day-old 300 quails were randomly assigned with 5 replicates each replicate had 15 birds and used CRD for the trial. Different dietary supplementations were presented to different groups. The control group was not supplemented with any supplementation in their feed. While, the 3 other groups were supplemented by 0.5 mL/kg, 1 mL/kg, and 1.5 mL/kg of methanolic extract of dried Citrus sinensis peel (DCSP) in the basal diet (DCSP0.5, DCSP1, and DCSP1.5 groups, respectively). All the birds were allowed ad libitum feeding and water. The feed intake and FCR were significantly higher in the control group, followed by DCSP0.5, and then DCSP1. The significantly lowest feed intake and FCR were observed in the DCSP1.5 group. The weight gain and dressing % were significantly improved with the increasing level of methanolic extract of Citrus sinensis. The significantly highest weights of thymus, spleen, and bursa were recorded in the DCSP1.5 group, followed by the DCSP1. The antibody titers against infectious bursal disease, New Castle disease, and infectious bronchitis disease were significantly higher in the DCSP1.5, DCSP1, and DCSP0.5 groups than in the control group. It was concluded from the study that supplementation of quails with methanolic extract of citrus at a dose rate of 0.5 to 1.5 mL/kg of feed can improve feed intake, weight gain, FCR, dressing percentage, relative weight of lymphoid organs, and digestibility coefficient. Supplementation of Citrus sinensis has also concluded positive impacts on antibody titers against various viral diseases. The best improvement in the evaluated parameters was observed at a dose of extract of citrus was 1.5 mL/kg of feed.

Impact of Cassava Leaf Meal as a Rice Bran Substitute and Enzyme Supplementation on Lymphoid Organ Weight and Digestibility in Broiler Chickens

Cassava leaves are a potential alternative feed ingredient due to their high levels of crude protein and energy. However, their utilization in poultry feed is constrained by factors such as cyanic acid, fiber content, and nutrient digestibility. This study aimed to investigate the impact of including cassava leaf meal (CLM) as a rice bran substitute and enzyme supplementation on lymphoid organ development and metabolizable energy parameters in broiler chickens. A 2x3 completely randomized factorial design was conducted using 48 Cobb-strain broilers unsexing at 35 days old. The treatments included different levels of CLM and enzyme (NSP and protease) supplementation at a dose of 250 g/ton of feed. The treatments consisted of R0E0: 0% CLM without enzyme, R0E1: 0% CLM with enzyme, R1E0: 1.5% CLM without enzyme, R1E1: 1.5% CLM with enzyme, R2E0: 3% CLM without enzyme, and R2E1: 3% CLM with enzyme. The variables assessed were lymphoid organ development (thymus, bursa Fabricius, and spleen) and metabolizable energy parameters (Apparent Metabolizable Energy (AME), True Metabolizable Energy (TME), Apparent Metabolizable Energy Corrected to Nitrogen (AMEn), and True Metabolizable Energy Corrected to Nitrogen (TMEn)). The data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post-hoc tests conducted for significant differences. Results indicated no interaction between CLM and enzymes in lymphoid organ development and energy metabolizable. The inclusion of CLM led to a reduction in AME and TME (p<0.05). However, enzyme supplementation significantly increased the relative weight of lymphoid organs (thymus, bursa Fabricius, spleen) and metabolizable energy parameters (AME, TME, AMEn, and TMEn) (p<0.05). Importantly, the inclusion of CLM up to a level of 3.0% did not negatively impact the health of broiler chickens. Furthermore, the addition of enzymes effectively mitigated the negative effects associated with CLM inclusion in the feed, suggesting their potential as a strategy to improve feed utilization in broiler production systems.

Impact of stocking density and dietary nano-zinc supplementation on stress indicators, immunity, and DNA damage in broiler chickens

Effects of stocking density (SD) and nano zinc on oxidative status, immune function, and DNA damage in broilers were examined in the current study. Totally 480 one-day-old male broilers (Ross 308) were randomly divided into 4 treatments each contained 8 replicates. A 2 ´ 2 factorial arrangement with two groups for dietary zinc (Zn) form (inorganic or nano) and two groups for SD (low = 12 birds/m2 and high = 18 birds/m2) was conducted. Basal diets based on the corn-soybean meal were formulated. Relative liver weight was lower (P<0.05) in broiler subjected high stocking density (HSD) but other lymphoid organ weights did not affect. Relative lymphoid organ weights were not affected by dietary nano zinc. HSD increased the serum corticosterone level of broiler (P<0.05) but did not affect the blood heterophil:lymphocyte ratio, serum glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde levels. Dietary nano zinc had no effect on these stress indicators. Serum interferon-gamma, interleukin 12, and interleukin 18 levels were not affected by HSD. Dietary nano zinc tended to reduce the interferon-gamma level (P=0.05) but did not affect interleukin 12, and interleukin 18 levels in broiler. Eeither HSD or nano zinc had no effect on DNA damage in lymphocyte. In conclusion, HSD may decrease the relative lymphoid organ weights and increase the stress indicators but did not affect the immunity and DNA damage. Generally, dietary nano zinc had no effect on stress indicators, immunity, and DNA damage in broiler.

Effect of dietary dexamethasone on the morphologic and morphometric adaptations in the lymphoid organs and mortality rate in broilers.

Thymus, bursa of Fabricius and spleen are the major lymphoid organs of avian species that plays a crucial role in their immunity. Though glucocorticoids are reportedly used as growth promoters, they also suppress the immune system. The objective of this study was to investigate the morphologic and morphometric adaptations in the lymphoid organs as well as the mortality rate in broilers in response to long-term treatment with dexamethasone (DEX). A total of 80 one-day-old broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly divided into four homogenous groups (control - C and treatment groups - T1, T2, and T3). The treatment groups received DEX at the rate of 3, 5, and 7 mg/kg commercial feed. Samples, i.e. thymus, bursa of Fabricius, and spleen, were collected on 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of the experiment. Relative weight of the organs was calculated on each sampling day. The tissues were then processed and stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain for morphological and morphometric study. The relative weight of lymphoid organs was found substantially (p < 0.05) less in the DEX-treated groups. Significant (p < 0.05) reduction in lobular size and the cortical-medullary ratio was observed in the thymus of the DEX-treated broilers. Follicular atrophy and massive depletion of lymphocytes were evident in the bursa of Fabricius. The mortality rate was also increased which was largely dependent on the dose and duration of DEX treatment. The study results indicate that DEX treatment can alter the morphology and morphometry of lymphoid organs which might result in severe immunosuppression and increased mortality rate in broilers.

Silver-Silica nanoparticles induced dose-dependent modulation of histopathological, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, proinflammatory, and immune status of broiler chickens

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are a powerful disinfectant, but little information is available on their potential use as a growth promoter and the safety margin of this. In this study, 480 1-day-old Cobb chicks were assigned to one control and three treated groups. The treated groups were supplemented with silver-doped silica nanoparticles (SiO2@AgNPs) at three dietary levels (8, 16, and 20 mg/kg diet) for 35 days. The results revealed no significant changes in the growth performance and oxidative parameters, and in most of the hematological and biochemical parameters among the control and treated groups. In contrast, dose-dependent adverse effects were exerted on the histopathological structure and immunohistochemical expression of CD45 in liver, kidneys, and lymphoid organs (spleen, bursa, and thymus). In addition, the relative weight of lymphoid organs and the serum levels of immunoglobulins M and G were significantly diminished. Moreover, the gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-β1 and TNF-α) and the ultrastructural morphology in breast muscle showed significant dose-dependent alterations. It could be concluded that the dietary supplementation of SiO2@AgNPs at a level of 8 mg/kg diet or more has dose-dependent proinflammatory and immunosuppressive effects on broiler chickens.

Protective effects of probiotics against tannin-induced immunosuppression in broiler chickens.

Tannins (TAs) are an anti-nutritional substance commonly used as a natural feed additive for livestock. However, our previous study described the dose-dependent adverse effects of TA on immune responses and growth in chickens. In this study, we evaluated the protective effects of a probiotic preparation (BT) consisting of three different bacteria (Bacillus mesenteric, Clostridium butyricum, and Streptococcus faecalis) against TA-induced immunosuppression in chickens. Forty chicks were divided into 4 groups as follows: the CON group (basal diet), BT group supplemented with 3 g BT/kg diet, tannic acid (TA) group supplemented with 30 g TA/kg diet, and BT+TA group supplemented with 3 g BT/kg diet + 30 g TA/kg diet. The feeding trial lasted for 35 days. Lymphocyte subset, macrophage phagocytosis, cytokine mRNA expression, and primary and secondary IgY immune responses were evaluated. BT supplementation significantly improved TA-induced reductions in final body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, and relative weights of lymphoid organs compared with the TA group. Furthermore, in the spleen and cecal tonsil (CT), the relative populations of CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+CD8+ cells in the BT+TA group were significantly ameliorated compared with the TA group. Additionally, comparison with the TA group showed that the chickens in the BT+TA group had an improved relative population of B cells in the CT and that macrophage phagocytosis in the spleen was significantly increased. Chickens in the BT+TA group showed significant increases in IFN-γ and IL-4 mRNA expression in the spleen compared with the TA group. The primary and secondary IgY responses were significantly improved. These results revealed that supplementation with BT protects against TA-induced immunosuppression in chickens.

Influence of in-ovo Feeding Bovine Serum Albumin or L-Glutamine to Japanese Quails on Hatchability, Performance of Hatched Chicks, Antioxidant Activity, Lymphoid Organs and Some Blood Biochemical Parameters

This study was designed to investigate the effects of in-ovo feeding (IOF) of L-glutamine and bovine serum albumin (BSA) on hatchability of Japanese quail breeder eggs, and the performance, antioxidant status, relative weight of lymphoid organs and some blood biochemical parameters in the new hatched chicks reared for 6 weeks. A total of 480 fertile eggs of Japanese quails (10 weeks old) were separated into four groups (3 replicates with 40 eggs each). The group T1 consisted of non-injected negative control eggs. Just before incubation, eggs of T2 group were subjected to IOF through injections in the air cell with 30ppm BSA. Eggs of T3 and T4 groups were injected with 15 and 30 ppm/egg L-glutamine (Gln), respectively. The results revealed that the highest hatchability (%) was recorded for eggs injected with Gln 30ppm. After six weeks of rearing, birds treated with IOF of BSA, Gln 15 or Gln 30ppm showed significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher body weight, weight gain and better feed conversion ratio in comparison to the control group. Similarly, all treatments showed significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) carcass yield than the control group, while none of the treatments had any negative effect on the bone, liver and kidney functions of Japanese quails. All treatments improved significantly (P&lt;0.05) total antioxidants capacity (TAC), while in RBC lysates, all experimental groups had significantly higher SOD and GPx activities (P&lt;0.05), than those in the control group. Moreover, all experimental treatments exhibited significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher SOD and GPx activities in the breast muscles compared with the control group. Birds produced from eggs injected with Gln 15 or 30ppm showed higher relative weights of spleen, bursa and thymus compared to the control group. Treatment of BSA significantly (P&lt;0.05) increased thymus relative weight, while the increase in both spleen and bursa relative weights was non-significant compared to control. In conclusion, Gln 30ppm appears to be the best IOF treatment in Japanese quails in terms of productive performance, antioxidants status and relative weights of spleen, bursa and thymus.

Characterization of Md5-BAC-REV-LTR virus as Marek’s disease vaccine in commercial meat-type chickens: protection and immunosuppression

ABSTRACT Md5-BAC-REV-LTR is a recombinant Marek’s disease virus (MDV), with an insertion of the long terminal repeat (LTR) of reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) into the genome of the highly virulent MDV strain rMd5. It has been shown that Md5-BAC-REV-LTR does not induce tumours and confers high protection against challenge with MDV in 15 × 7 chickens. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the protection and safety (in terms of oncogenicity and immunosuppression) of Md5-BAC-REV-LTR in commercial meat-type chickens bearing maternal antibodies against MDV. Our results show that sub-cutaneous administration of Md5-BAC-REV-LTR at 1 day of age conferred high protection (protection index PI = 84.2) against an early challenge (1 day) by contact exposure to shedder birds infected with the vv+ MDV 648A strain. In such stringent challenge conditions, Md5-BAC-REV-LTR was more protective than a commercial CVI988 (PI = 12.4) and similar to the experimental vaccine Md5-BACΔmeq (PI = 92.4). Furthermore, Md5-BAC-REV-LTR did not induce either tumours or immunosuppression in this study. Immunosuppression was evaluated by the relative lymphoid organ weights and also by the ability of the vaccine to induce late-MDV-induced immunosuppression associated with reactivation of the virus. This study shows that Md5-BAC-REV-LTR has the potential to be used as a MD vaccine and is highly protective against early challenge with vv+ MDV. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS Md5-BAC-REV-LTR is highly protective against early challenge with vv+ MDV in commercial meat-type chickens. Md5-BAC-REV-LTR does not cause early immunosuppression. Md5-BAC-REV-LTR does not cause late immunosuppression. Unlike other serotype 1 vaccines, Md5-BAC-REV-LTR is not detected in feather pulp at 7 days post vaccination.

Some Indian herbs have protective effects against deleterious effects of ochratoxin A in broiler chicks

A protective effect of two herbs,Glycyrrhiza glabra andTinospora cordifolia, given as feed additives was observed against the growth inhibitory effect of ochratoxin A (OTA) and associated immunosuppression and biochemical or pathomorphological changes. The feed levels of 3 mg/kg OTA and fine powder of one of both herbs were given during a period of 32 days to female broiler chicks divided into 3 experimental and 1 control groups (14 chicks per group). The observed pathological and biochemical changes, the changes in relative organs’ weight and body weight, and the decrease of antibody titer against Newcastle disease were more pronounced in the OTA-treated chicks without herbal supplementation, and less pronounced in the chicks treated additionally withG. glabra orT. cordifolia as was shown by the better feed performance and the higher body weight in the chicks treated with the herbs. The higher relative weight of lymphoid organs of the chicks supplemented with both herbs revealed their beneficial effects on the immune system. The hepatoprotective effect of both herbs was evident, being stronger in the chicks additionally supplemented withG. glabra shown by the pathomorphological findings and by the lower levels of aspartate transaminase (131.1 U/l) compared to chicks given only OTA (156.0 U/l). A protective effect ofT. cordifolia on the bone marrow and kidneys was found as was shown by the lower levels of uric acid (382.9 μmol/l) compared to chicks given only OTA (466.9 μmol/l).

Review on the Effect of Heat Stress on Poultry Production and Productivities

Heat stress is a situation where too much heat is absorbed by a person, a plant or an animal and causes stress, illness or even death. Therefore, the objective of this review was to compile current knowledge and evidence from literature about the effects of heat stress in poultry production, and productivities. Heat stress is manifested by elevated body temperature, hot, dry skin, lack of sweating and neurological symptoms such as paralysis, headache, vertigo and unconsciousness. Poultry seems to be particularly sensitive to temperature-associated environmental challenges, especially heat stress. In the first days of their life poultry need hot climate (32-38°C), but the optimal temperature decreases rapidly with age by 2.5-3.0°C per week. Birds may use sand baths to dissipate the heat from the body, move to a shaded area or seek a micro-environment that avoids extremely high environmental temperature. Birds rose in an open-sided house at 37°C and humidity level of 50-60% showed signs of panting and wing lifting, elevation of body temperature, lower feed consumption, a higher feed conversion ratio, and lowered body weight gain. In females, heat stress can disrupt the normal status of reproductive hormones at the hypothalamus and ovary leading to reduced systemic levels and functions. Also in males, semen volume, sperm concentration, number of live sperm cells and motility decrease when subjected to heat stress. In egg production, heat stress has a significant harmful impact on body weight, and feed consumption of laying hens at peak production, egg weight, shell weight, shell thickness, and gravity. Both meat type and egg laying chickens respond negatively to high ambient temperatures. Heat stress reduces the relative weights of lymphoid organs like spleen, thymus and cloacae bursa.

Review on the Effect of Heat Stress on Poultry Production and Productivities

Heat stress is a situation where too much heat is absorbed by a person, a plant or an animal and causes stress, illness or even death. Therefore, the objective of this review was to compile current knowledge and evidence from literature about the effects of heat stress in poultry production, and productivities. Heat stress is manifested by elevated body temperature, hot, dry skin, lack of sweating and neurological symptoms such as paralysis, headache, vertigo and unconsciousness. Poultry seems to be particularly sensitive to temperature-associated environmental challenges, especially heat stress. In the first days of their life poultry need hot climate (32-38°C), but the optimal temperature decreases rapidly with age by 2.5-3.0°C per week. Birds may use sand baths to dissipate the heat from the body, move to a shaded area or seek a micro-environment that avoids extremely high environmental temperature. Birds rose in an open-sided house at 37°C and humidity level of 50-60% showed signs of panting and wing lifting, elevation of body temperature, lower feed consumption, a higher feed conversion ratio, and lowered body weight gain. In females, heat stress can disrupt the normal status of reproductive hormones at the hypothalamus and ovary leading to reduced systemic levels and functions. Also in males, semen volume, sperm concentration, number of live sperm cells and motility decrease when subjected to heat stress. In egg production, heat stress has a significant harmful impact on body weight, and feed consumption of laying hens at peak production, egg weight, shell weight, shell thickness, and gravity. Both meat type and egg laying chickens respond negatively to high ambient temperatures. Heat stress reduces the relative weights of lymphoid organs like spleen, thymus and cloacae bursa.

Effects of dietary fat source and green tea (Camellia sinensis) extract on genes associated with lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses in female broiler chickens

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of dietary fat sources and green tea extract (GTE) on gene expression associated with lipid metabolism and inflammation in broiler chicken. A total of 300 female Ross 308 broiler chicks were allocated to six dietary treatments in a completely randomised design with a factorial arrangement of two levels of GTE (0 and 500 mg/kg diet) × three levels of fat inclusion [without fat (control group), soybean oil (SO) and tallow (Ta)]. Liver fat (LF), liver methallothionin (LMT) content, and lipoprotein lipase (LPL), adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL-6)] genes expression were investigated. Relative expression and statistical analyses of genes expression were assessed using REST software. The effect of added dietary fats was significant and improved performance parameters compared to the control group (p < .05). The highest abdominal fat and blood triglyceride, and the lowest carcase yield, were achieved in chicks fed SO-supplemented diet (p < .05). Chicks fed a diet supplemented with SO showed an overexpression and a decrease of LPL and ATGL compared to the Ta-supplemented and control groups, respectively (p < .05). GTE supplementation was effective on LPL and ATGL expression and ameliorated the effect of SO on abdominal fat percentage. TNF-α expression, LMT content, and relative weight of lymphoid organs were affected neither by GTE nor by the fat sources. There was no detection of IL-6 gene expression in adipose tissue. The results of this study demonstrated that diets rich in SO were capable increase fat deposition by an increase and decrease in LPL and ATGL gene expression, respectively. However inclusion of GTE in broiler diets alleviated the LPL-increasing and ATGL-reducing effects of SO and ameliorated the effect of SO on abdominal fat mass. Highlights Diets supplemented with SO increased abdominal fat mass by changes in LPL and ATGL gene expression. Obesity was not effective in the expression of inflammatory genes (TNF-α and IL-6), indicating a lack of connection between inflammation and obesity in broiler chicken. GTE (500 mg/kg diet) addition to the diets supplemented with SO ameliorated the effect of SO on LPL and ATGL gene expression and abdominal fat mass.

Effect of probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei on hematology and relative weight of lymphoid organs of broiler

One alternative approach can be done to replace the antibiotic growth promotant function (AGP) in broiler, which is the use of probiotic microorganisms. The aim of this study was to look at the effects of probiotics on Lactobacillus paracasei on hematological conditions and lymphoid organs. This study used a completely randomized design consisting of 4 treatments with 5 replications, each replication using 4 broiler chickens. Treatment consists of controls (0 mL/day), probiotics 1 mL/day, probiotics 3 mL/day, and probiotics 5 mL/day. The probiotics used in this study, namely Lactobacillus paracasei (5.8 x 107 CFU/mL) were given through drinking water. The results showed that the treatment had no significant effect (p>0.05) on the number of erythrocytes, hematocrit percentage, hemoglobin level, number of leucocytes, and erythrocyte index. Likewise, treatment had no significant effect (p>0.05) on the relative weights of bursa fabricius, thymus, and spleen exchanges. The values shown in hematology parameters are all within the normal range. Whereas in the lymphoid organ parameters there is a tendency for the relative weight of lymphoid organs to be greater in the treatment of Lactobacillus paracasei than in controls. Probiotics Lactobacillus paracasei used in this study did not respond poorly to hematological features and can be used as an immunomodulator in broilers.

Different doses of tannin reflect a double-edged impact on broiler chicken immunity

Tannin is one of the most common phytochemical secondary phenolic metabolites, which is widely distributed in various plant production systems. Dietary intake of tannin can exert different actions on the immune system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different concentrations on broiler chicken immunity. Three groups (n = 10 in each group) were evaluated: control group given a normal basal diet, high tannic acid (HT) group given high-dose tannic acid (30 g/kg diet) and low tannic acid (LT) group given low-dose tannic acid (0.5 g/kg diet) for 35 days. Feed intake and body weight were measured weekly. Cells were isolated from thymus, spleen and caecal tonsils at the end of the study. Lymphocyte subsets, monocytes phagocytosis and cytokine mRNA expression in spleen were evaluated. The results showed that HT group chickens had decreased daily gain, final body weight, daily feed intake and relative weights of lymphoid organs compared with other groups. In thymus, spleen and caecal tonsils, relative CD4+, CD8+, CD4+CD8+ and γδ+ cell populations in the HT group were significant decreased in comparison with those of other groups. The relative B cell population in the HT group was also significant decreased. Cytokine mRNA expression in spleen cells of the HT group was also significantly lower than that in other groups. Conversely, CD4+CD8+ subpopulations in spleen and caecal tonsils, γδ+ cells in spleen and B cells in caecal tonsils of the LT group were significantly higher than those of the control group. In addition, IFN-γ mRNA expression in the LT group was significantly higher than that of the control group. These results demonstrated that dietary intake of tannin had positive and negative effects on broiler chicken immunity in a dose-dependent manner.

Effects of clove powder supplementation on performance, blood biochemistry, and immune responses in broiler chickens

The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) supplementation levels on performance, blood parameters, and immune response of broilers. A total of 336 one-day-old broilers were assigned to one of eight treatments: 1% to 6% clove supplementation levels, a positive control (vaccinated) and a negative control (unvaccinated). Bodyweight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, serum protein profile, and immune responses were measured weekly. Lymphoid organs were weighed at 21 and 35 days. Levels of dietary clove between 2% and 6% supplementation resulted in a gradual decrease in weight gain and feed intake with an increase in feed conversion ratio at two and three weeks, whereas those that received 4% to 6% supplementation had reduced weight gain and the 3% to 6% supplemented animals consumed the least amount of feed at four and five weeks. High levels of clove supplementation (4%, 5%, and 6%) resulted in reduced total serum protein and albumin and the greatest activity of aspartate aminotransferase at 35 days. Antibodies to viruses against which the birds had been vaccinated were not affected by different levels of clove supplementation compared with the positive control. However, they were increased in birds in the negative control group without vaccination. Relative weights of lymphoid organs were not affected by any treatments at 21 and 35 days. These results indicate that clove supplementation at levels greater than 2% can lead to negative effects on performance without improving the health of the liver and immune responsiveness of broilers.Keywords: Gallus domesticus, serum biochemical, enzymes, antibody titers, lymphoid organs

RELATIVE WEIGHT OF SMALL INTESTINE AND LYMPHOID ORGAN OF FINISHER PERIOD BROILER CHICKEN AT DIFFERENT REARING TEMPERATURES

As a tropical country, Indonesia has a diverse air temperature range, reaching more than 34 °C during the day. This temperature is not suitable for rearing of broiler chickens because it induces heat stress. Heat stress can reduce the broilers immune system, it can also cause various diseases, the decrease in growth rate and production and making it uneconomical. Heat stress can inhibit the absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract which can affect the weight of the digestive organs and affect the relative weights of lymphoid organs of broiler chicken. The research was conducted at Poultry Production Laboratory, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Diponegoro University, Semarang on 08-23 March 2018. This study aims to examine the relative weights of the small intestine and the relative weight of lymphoid organs of finisher period broiler chicken which are reared in different temperatures. The material used in this research is broiler chicken strain CP 707 male finisher period (age 21 days) as many as 20 chicken with an average body weight of 1167 g. The research used the t-test with 2 treatments of 10 replications. The treatment applied is T1: heat temperature and T2: comfortable temperature. The parameters observed were relative weights of the small intestine (duodenum, jejenum, ileum) and lymphoid organs (bursa fabricius, thymus, spleen). The results of the study showed that the relative weight of the small intestine consisting of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum at heat and comfortable rearing temperatures was respectively 0.25%; 0.66%; 0.55% and 0.34%; 0.79%; 0.71%, as well as the relative weight of lymphoid organs consisting of bursa fabricius, thymus and spleen exchanges at heat and comfortable rearing temperatures of 0.07%; 0.23%; 0.11% and 0.09%; 0.28%; 0.16%. The rearing temperature is significantly different with the relative weight of the small intestine and lymphoid organs of finisher period broiler (P&lt;0.05). The conclusion of the research was that finisher period broiler chicken reared at a comfortable temperature have a higher relative weight of small intestine and lymphoid organs compared to broiler finisher period which are maintained at hot temperatures.

Body Resistance and Growth Performance of Broiler Fed Glucomannan Extracted from Amorphophallus onchophyllus Tuber

The purpose of the study was to examine the supplementation effects of glucomannan extracted from a porang tuber (GEPT) on body resistance and growth performance of broiler chickens. A total number of 160 one-day-old broiler chickens with the average body weight of 42.39±0.58 g was kept for 35 days. The study was arranged in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments and 4 replications (8 birds each). The dietary treatments were T0= basal ration, T1= basal ration with the addition of 0.05% GEPT, T2= basal ration with the addition of 0.1% GEPT, T3= basal ration with the addition of 0.15% GEPT, and T4= basal ration with the addition of 0.2% GEPT. Parameters measured were the population of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), Coliform count, relative weight of lymphoid organs (bursa fabricius and spleen), heterophils-lymphocytes (H/L) ratio, body weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, and mortality. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and continued with Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% probability. The results showed that supplementation of the diets with GEPT significantly increased (P<0.05) LAB population, decreased (P<0.05) Coliform count in the jejunum and ileum, and H/L ratio, but did not affect the relative weight of lymphoid organs, and growth performance. In conclusion, diet added with 0.1% GEPT improved the balance of intestinal microflora and increased body resistance, without any negative effects on the lymphoid organs and growth performance of broiler chickens.

Soy Isoflavones Ameliorate Metabolic and Immunological Alterations of Ovariectomy in Female Wistar Rats: Antioxidant and Estrogen Sparing Potential.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can alleviate estrogen deficiency symptoms especially during menopause. The present study aimed at investigating the effect of soy isoflavones as HRT on immunological and bone health-related parameters with a special focus on the interactions between immunological status and metabolism. Thirty healthy cyclic female Wistar rats were used in this experiment. Ten females were sham-operated, and 20 females were subjected to ovariectomy. Overiectomized (OVX) female rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: the control group (G1, OVX/casein) was fed a casein-based diet, and the second group (G2, OVX/soy) was fed a high soy isoflavone diet. Both groups were compared to a sham-operated group (G3, sham/casein). Treatments continued for 7 weeks. Feed intake, weight gain, and lymphoid organ relative weights were recorded. Some metabolic, immunological, and bone health-related parameters were measured. Moreover, nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined. Bone histopathology and immunohistochemistry to estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) were done. Feeding soy to OVX females reduced feed intake, weight gain, relative lymphoid organ weight, and T-lymphocytes transformation. Soy isoflavone administration normalized nearly all metabolic and immunological parameters to a level comparable to the sham group via oxidative stress amelioration and bone ERα promotion. Soy isoflavones seemed to be good HRT in estrogen deprivation which modulated the appetite, weight gain, lipid profile, proinflammation, and bone turnover.

Dietary supplementation of organic or inorganic chromium modulates the immune responses of broilers vaccinated with Avian Influenza virus vaccine

Dietary supplementation with the organic chromium (Cr) has been shown to positively affect the immune function of poultry. However, to our knowledge, no experiment has been done to directly compare the impacts of Cr chloride and chromium picolinate (CrPic) on the immune responses of broilers vaccinated with Avian Influenza (AI) virus vaccine. Therefore, the present experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of supplemental Cr sources (Cr chloride and CrPic) and levels on the growth performance and immune responses of broilers vaccinated with AI virus vaccine so as to provide an effective nutritional strategy for improving immune function of broilers. A total of 432 1-day (d)-old male broiler chicks were used in a 1 plus 2×4 design. Chickens were given either a diet without Cr supplementation (control) or diets supplemented with 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, or 3.2 mg Cr/kg as either Cr chloride or CrPic for 42 d. Compared to the control, dietary Cr supplementation had no effect (P>0.05) on average daily gain, average daily feed intake and gain : feed of broilers during the starter and grower phases, but increased (P<0.05) the relative weights of bursa of fabricius on d 21 and thymus, spleen, or bursa of fabricius on d 42, serum antibody titers against AI virus on d 21, 28, 35 and 42, blood T-lymphocyte transformation rate on d 28 and 42, blood T-lymphocyte percentage on d 42, and serum interleukin-2 contents on d 28. Broilers fed the diets supplemented with the inorganic Cr chloride had higher (P<0.05) weights of thymus, spleen and bursa of fabricius than those fed the diets supplemented with the CrPic on d 42. In addition, broilers fed the diets supplemented with the CrPic had higher (P<0.05) antibody titers against AI virus than those fed the diets supplemented with the inorganic Cr chloride on d 21 and 35. These results indicate that dietary Cr supplementation improved immune responses of broilers vaccinated with AI virus, and the inorganic Cr chloride was more effective than the CrPic in increasing the relative weights of lymphoid organs, however, the CrPic was more effective than the inorganic Cr chloride in enhancing the serum antibody titer against AI virus.