Serum Lysozyme Activity Research Articles

Dietary Azomite, a natural trace mineral complex, improved the growth, immunity response, intestine health and resistance against bacterial infection in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

Azomite is a hydrated calcium sodium aluminosilicat rich in rare earth elements. To investigate the dietary effects of Azomite on growth, intestine microbiota and morphology, immunohematological changes and disease resistance, seven diets with Azomite supplementation of 0 (the control), 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0 and 6.0 g/kg (A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6), were prepared and fed to largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides (7.96 ± 0.19) for 60 days. The results revealed that the weight gain (WG) increased first and then decreased with the increasing dietary Azomite, and the A2 group presented the highest WG and lowest feed conversion ratio among all the groups. The supplementation of 2.0 g/kg Azomite significantly increased the intestine protease activity, the crude protein of whole body and protein retention (P < 0.05), and high inclusion of Azomite (6.0 g/kg) significantly reduced the lipid retention (P < 0.05). The amounts of red blood cells in A5, A6 groups, white blood cells in A3, A5, A6 groups and lymphocyte in A2-A6 groups were all significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, serum superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in A5, A6 groups, and serum alkaline phosphatase and lysozyme activities in A2-A4 groups showed significantly higher values than the control group (P < 0.05). Intestinal microbiota analysis indicated that the Tenericutes abundance was increased, whereas Proteobacteria abundance was decreased in all Azomite supplemented groups. The villus height in A2-A4 groups, and the villus width in A2 group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The cumulative mortality was reduced by the addition of 2.0–5.0 g/kg Azomite after challenging with A. hydrophila (P < 0.05). In conclusion, proper addition of Azomite in diets improved the growth, intestine morphology, immune response and disease resistance in largemouth bass, and the optimal inclusion was estimated to be 2.0–3.0 g/kg diet.

The cell protection of weated pigs for probiotics

The immune system is central to ensuring the consistency of the body's homeostasis. The state of the body's natural resistance is determined by a set of non-specific protective mechanisms. Lymphocytes and phagocytes are actively involved in maintaining immunity. Lymphocytes recognize the antigens of pathogenic microorganisms, and phagocytes absorb and destroy the pathogens themselves. During the weaning of piglets from sows there is a decrease in the protective forces of their body. During this period, the natural resistance of the piglets is reduced due to the stressful situation caused by changing conditions of confinement, the transition to full feed and lack of sows. The immune system of weaning pigs is relatively weak, so when exposed to environmental and technological stressors, they become susceptible to various diseases. The use of probiotic drugs stimulates the activity of the immune system, prevents stress and immunodeficiency. One of these probiotics is the probiotic of domestic production Protecto-active. It w observed the the influence of the probiotic Protecto-active on the indices of nonspecific resistance of the young pigs organism to the growth. An increase in bactericidal activity of blood serum by 12.10% (P &lt;0.05) and lysozyme activity of blood in the piglets of the experimental group was increased by 3.71% compared to control, which indicates the activation of the body's defenses and the increase in adaptive capacity. An important step in the study of the influence of the probiotic Protekto-active on the state of the immune system is to determine the phagocytic activity of neutrophils, phagocytic index and phagocytic number. In the experimental group of piglets that were fed the probiotic Protecto-active, we found an increase in leukocyte phagocytic activity by 9.0% (P &lt;0.001), a phagocytic index by 51.7% (P&lt;0.001) and a phagocytic number by 24.8% ( P &lt;0.01) compared with the control group. Thus, using a probiotic Protecto-active, all indicators of phagocytosis increase: the number of phagocytes increases, their ability to capture microorganisms and increases their digestive capacity, it increases the bacterial and lysozyme activity of blood serum, which is positively reflected in the immunobiosity. Key words: probiotic, phagocytosis, phagocytic index, phagocytic number, phagocytic activity of leukocytes, cellular immunity, piglets

INTERRELATION OF NATURAL STABILITY TO RESISTANCE TO DISEASE AND STRESS WITH ECONOMICALLY USEFUL FEATURES IN DAIRY CATTLE

There have a survey of the connection between natural resistance and stress resistance among Holstein heifer showing domestic-usable features.&#x0D; Arecord-keepingofdisease incidence was conducted.&#x0D; There was a study of calves-live-weight and of their spontaneous resistance.&#x0D; Serum bactericidal and lysozyme activity were determined.&#x0D; For impartial assessment of phagocytosis, activity and intensity of phagocytosis were taken into account.&#x0D; There was an analysis of lactation milk production of calved cows, after giving birth of calves under review.&#x0D; There was a study of production traits of test animals after termination of first lactation.&#x0D; There have been established high criteria of age succession of live-weight-features in all age periods (r = +0.8 – +0.9), which affirms the consistency in calf management.&#x0D; Average month live-weight-increase in the test group was 25.3 ± 118 kg.&#x0D; There was revealed a positive correlation between an average month live-weight-increase and serum bactericidal activity(r = +0.28 ± 0.13).&#x0D; Otherwise an invert correlation between lysozyme activity and average month live-weight-increase was determined.&#x0D; At the age of 7 months the invert correlation in these criteria amounts r = -0.585 ± 0.22**, Р &lt; 0.01.&#x0D; The efficiency-influence of calved cows on the live-weight of 6-month-calves was probable and amounted ηх2 = 29.6% (Р &gt; 0.001).&#x0D; The efficiency-influence of calved cows on the stress resistance of calves turned out statistically significant and amounted ηх2 = 39.5%.&#x0D; A statistically significant influence of the age of the first service (ηх2 = 12.3%) and that of incidence of illness (ηх2 = 7%) in early age on the milk production was not identified.&#x0D; The animals, showing normal-stress-status, had probably, higher level of milk production in 305 day of the first lactation, (+1843 кг, Р &lt; 0.05), than stress-sensitive animals.&#x0D; Apart from this, the stress-resistant calves showed, probably, higher live-weight.&#x0D; In summary, the inconstancy between live-weight and the criteria of natural resistance should be considered during cattle-breeding aiming disease-resistance.

Effects of Phenolic-Rich Onion (Allium cepa L.) Extract on the Growth Performance, Behavior, Intestinal Histology, Amino Acid Digestibility, Antioxidant Activity, and the Immune Status of Broiler Chickens.

The effect of phenolic-rich onion extract (PROE), as a feed additive, was evaluated on the growth, carcass traits, behavior, welfare, intestinal histology, amino acid ileal digestibility “AID%,” and the immune status of broiler chicks for 35 days. A total number of 400, 1-day-old broiler chicks (45.38 g ± 1.35) were allocated to four different treatments with 10 replicates each (100 chicks/treatment) consisting of: T1, basal diet without additives (control treatment) (PROE0); T2, basal diet + phenolic-rich onion extract (1 g/kg diet) (PROE1); T3, basal diet + phenolic-rich onion extract (2 g/kg diet) (PROE2); and T4, basal diet + phenolic-rich onion extract (3 g/kg diet) (PROE3). An increase in the final body weight “FBW,” bodyweight gain “BWG,” and feed consumption was observed (P < 0.05) at different PROE levels. Also, the thymus and bursa percentages were increased in the PROE2 and PROE3 treatments (P < 0.05). The chicks fed on PROE supplemented diets had increased frequency of feeding and drinking and showed comfortable behavior (P < 0.05) with lesser aggression (P < 0.05). Additionally, an increase was observed in the antioxidant enzyme activity, phagocytic %, phagocytic index, and serum lysozyme activity in PROE supplemented treatments, with the best outcome reported in the PROE3 treatment (P < 0.01). IgM was increased in the birds fed with PROE2 and PROE3 diets (P < 0.01). PROE supplementation increased the AID% of lysine and methionine (P <0.01), PROE3 treatment increased the AID% of threonine (P < 0.05), and PROE2 and PROE3 treatments increased the AID% of leucine and isoleucine (P < 0.05). Besides, PROE2, and PROE3 treatments increased the villus height and width, mucosal thickness, and goblet cell count from the duodena, jejuna, and ilea (P < 0.05) compared to control treatment. Based on these results, we concluded that the dietary addition of phenolic-rich onion extracts can improve the growth rate of broiler chicken by improving the AID% of amino acids and intestinal histology. Also, it can improve the welfare, antioxidant enzymes activity, and immune status of the birds. Phenolic-rich onion extracts can be used as a natural growth promoter in the poultry feed for good health and improved performance.

Lemon, Citrus aurantifolia, peel and Bacillus licheniformis protected common carp, Cyprinus carpio, from Aeromonas hydrophila infection by improving the humoral and skin mucosal immunity, and antioxidative responses

AbstractThe role of dietary lemon peel (LM) and/or Bacillus licheniformis (BL) on the growth, immunity, and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in common carp, Cyprinus carpio was investigated in this study. LM and BL were included in diets at 0% (T0), 108 CFU/g BL (T1), 1.5% LM and 108 CFU/g BL (T2), and 3% LM and 108 CFU/g BL (T3). Fish fed with T1, T2, or T3 had higher weight gain, specific growth rate, white blood cells count, and blood total protein with lower feed conversion ratio than T0 group (p &lt; .05). The albumin increased significantly (p &lt; .05) in fish fed both BL and LM (T3). The serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, lysozyme, and bactericidal activities were significantly increased in fish fed both BL and LM (T2 and T3), while serum glutathione peroxidase increased in fish fed BL (T2) (p &lt; .05). Fish fed T1, T2, and T3 diets displayed higher SOD and lower malondialdehyde than fish fed T0 (p &lt; .05). After the A. hydrophila challenge, the mortality rate was significantly lower in T1, T2, and T3 groups than the T0 group (p &lt; .05). The obtained results revealed that LM and BL could be used to increase resistance against A. hydrophila infection in carp. However, further field studies should be performed to confirm the obtained results.

Effects of dietary leaf ethanolic extract of Apium graveolens L. on growth performance, serum biochemical indices, bacterial resistance and lysozyme activity in Labeo chrysophekadion (Bleeker, 1849)

This research was conducted to evaluate the effects of Apium graveolens leaf extract on Labeo chrysophekadion. The fish were fed 0, 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75 g kg−1 leaf extract to supplement their diets for 150 days. The results revealed that the highest weigh gain and average daily gain being observed in fish that were fed 0.75 g kg−1. Furthermore, a lower feed conversion rate was observed in fish fed 0.50 and 0.75 g kg−1. Biochemical indices, the highest cholesterol level was found in a group fed 0.75 g kg−1, while glucose was found to be significantly higher in groups fed 0.25 and 0.50 g kg−1. Total protein, albumin and globulin levels were shown to have significantly (p < 0.05) increased alongside an increase in the concentration of the extract and higher levels were found in groups fed 0.50 and 0.75 g kg−1. After pathogenic challenge test, the highest level of lysozyme activity was observed in a group fed 0.25 g kg−1. The lowest cumulative mortality was observed in a group fed 0.75 g kg−1 when compared with other groups. These results suggest that 0.75 g kg−1 of A. graveolens this can promote growth performance, enhance some biochemical indices, disease resistance and non-specific immune response.

Assessment of Immunostimulatory Characteristics of Achyranthes aspera Seeds and Leaves Supplemented Diets in Labeo rohita Fingerlings

The effect of dietary supplementation of leaves and seeds of Achyranthes aspera on rohu, Labeo rohita fingerlings was evaluated. Three experimental diets containing 0.25 (D1) and 0.5% (D2) leaves and 0.5% (D3) seeds of A. aspera and control diet (D4) without plant ingredients were formulated. After 45 days of feeding, rohu were immunized with 20% chicken RBC. Tissue and blood samples were collected on days7, 14 and 21 after immunization. Dietary supplementation significantly (P&lt;0.05) increased the average weight and specific growth rate of rohu. Serum lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, hemagglutination titer and nitric oxide synthase activities were significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in D3 compared to others. This group was followed by D2 and D1. Significantly (P&lt;0.05) lower lipid and protein oxidations were found in D3 compared to others. This group was followed by D2 and D1. In hepatopancreas, lysozyme C, lysozyme G, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) expressions were up-regulated while interleukin-10 (IL-10) expression was downregulated. In anterior kidney, lysozyme C, lysozyme G and IL-10 expressions were upregulated while TNF-α and IL-1β expressions were down-regulated. The dietary inclusion of leaves and seeds of A. aspera enhanced the growth, improved immune system and reduced oxidative stress of rohu.

Effects of dietary Nannochloropsis oculata on growth performance, serum biochemical parameters, immune responses, and resistance against Aeromonas veronii challenge in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

The current work was planned to assess the effects of dietary microalga, Nannochloropsis oculata (NP) on the growth indices, serum biochemistry, non-specific immunity, and resistance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) juveniles against challenge with pathogenic Aeromonas veronii. Fish (10.21 ± 0.28 g) were randomly divided into four treatments in triplicates and were fed on diets supplemented with different levels of NP (0, 5, 10, and 15%) for eight weeks. The results showed that the dietary 5% NP significantly improved the growth parameters (final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, and total feed intake) (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the feed conversion ratio was significantly decreased in NP-supplemented groups with respect to the control group. The serum protein profile (total protein, albumin, globulin, and albumin/globulin ratio) was significantly decreased by 15% NP supplemented group. Meanwhile, liver enzymes (alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase) activities were not significantly affected by NP dietary supplementation (P < 0.05). Serum lysozyme activity, nitric oxide (NO), and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) levels were significantly enhanced only in 5% NP supplemented group (P < 0.05). Interestingly, the hepatopancreatic and intestinal tissues had apparently normal histomorphology of Nile tilapia fed at 5% NP-supplemented diets. Significant upregulation of cytokines [interleukin 1beta (IL-1β), interleukin 8 (IL-8), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF- β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)], with significant downregulation of the antioxidant gene [superoxide dismutase (SOD)] in 10% and 15% NP supplemented groups. Attractively, the relative level of protection (RLP) against challenge with pathogenic A. veronii was significantly elevated in 10% and 15% NP supplemented groups. Conclusively, the obtained results reflect the beneficial roles of dietary NP to improve growth and boost the immune responses of Nile tilapia.

Nile tilapia fed insect meal: Growth and innate immune response in different times under lipopolysaccharide challenge

Insects have been the subject of recent attention as a nutritious source and nutraceutical potential. Hence, we studied the effects of diets containing superworm larvae (Zophobas morio) meal on growth performance and innate immunity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). During 12 weeks, fish were fed with diets containing 0, 15% and 30% of superworm larvae meal (SWM) and then challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cellular counts, lysozyme and complement system activity (HACS) were recorded over 0, 3, 6 and 9 hr post-challenge. The results revealed that dietary inclusion of SWM had no negative effects on growth performance of tilapia (p < .05). The moisture and lipid content increased (p < .05) in fish fed 30% SWM while ash and protein content decreased. However, there were no differences between fish fed 15% SWM and the control group. Thrombocytes and neutrophils showed increasing levels (p < .05) in those fed SWM diets mainly 6 hr after challenge. Increased lysozyme activity in serum and liver was registered in both groups fed SWM (p < .05). Fish fed SWM diets showed an increase in HACS in which higher haemolysis was registered at 0 hr and 3 hr (p < .05). The current study indicates that dietary inclusion of at least 15% SWM could influence selected innate immunity parameters of tilapia while maintaining growth performance and feed utilization. However, further investigations are needed to evaluate the effect of SWM on other immune parameters to better understand how this ingredient can improve the health of Nile tilapia.

Evaluation of Bacillus pumillus SE5 fermented soybean meal as a fish meal replacer in spotted seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus) feed

The impacts of fish meal (FM) substitution with Bacillus pumillus SE5 fermented soybean meal (FSM) were investigated in spotted seabass juveniles. A diet containing 35% FM was considered as the basal diet, then 20, 40, 60 and 80% of FM was replaced with FSM (FM, FSM20, FSM40, FSM60 and FSM80 diets). The experimental diets were fed to three replicate groups of fish (14.3 ± 0.35 g) for eight weeks. The results showed linear and quadratic decrease of growth performance by increasing FM replacement level (P < 0.05). Feed consumption decreased linearly, and feed efficiency decreased linearly and quadratically by increasing FSM level. Furthermore, negative linear and quadratic trends were observed between FSM levels and protein efficiency ratio, and digestibility of protein, calcium and phosphorous. Serum total protein, cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations and alkaline phosphatase activity decreased linearly by increasing FSM level, and a linear increase was observed for alanine aminotransferase activity. Serum superoxide dismutase and lysozyme activities decreased linearly and quadratically with increasing FSM level while an opposite trend was observed for serum malondialdehyde concentration. Significant negative linear and quadratic trends were observed between FSM levels and intestinal protease and lipase activities. Increasing FSM level led to linear decrease of foregut villus height, and linear and quadratic decrease of villus and muscular thicknesses. Increasing FSM level led to linear increase of serum D-lactate concentration, and linear and quadratic enhancement of diamine oxidase activity. Expression of intestinal HSP70, IL-1β and TNF-α increased linearly and quadratically with increment of FSM level. The optimum replacement level of FM with the FSM was estimated to be in the range of 26.9–37.1% by broken-line and second-order polynomial regression analyses based on weight gain, feed efficiency, and lysozyme and superoxide dismutase activities.

Dietary Gracilaria persica mediated the growth performance, fillet colouration, and immune response of Persian sturgeon (Acipenser persicus)

Algal seaweeds have abundant amounts of active substances and can be used as pharmaceuticals and biomedicals in aquafeeds. In this context, the powder of red macroalgae Gracilaria persica was included in the diets of Persian sturgeon at the rate of 0, 2.5, 5, and 10 g/kg to investigate its role on the growth rate, fillet colouration, haemato-biochemical indices, serum, and skin mucus immunity. The weight gain, SGR, and FCR displayed no significant changes in fish fed varying levels of G. persica (P > 0.05). The level of total carotenoids was significantly higher in the blood and fillet of fish fed 5 and 10 g G. persica/kg diet (P < 0.05). Dietary G. persica significantly altered RBCs, WBCs, and HCT at 5, and 10 g/kg, whereas the Hb was increased in fish fed 5 g/kg (P < 0.05). The blood total protein and albumin were significantly increased in fish fed 5 and 10 g/kg (P < 0.05). No significant alterations were observed on ALT, AST, ALP, and glucose levels of fish fed varying levels of G. persica (P > 0.05). Serum Ig, lysozyme, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and respiratory burst activities were increased in fish fed 5, and 10 g/kg than fish fed 0 and 2.5 g/kg diet (P < 0.05). The level of total protein and lysozyme activity in the skin mucus were significantly higher in the blood and fillet of fish fed 5, and 10 g G. persica/kg diet than fish fed 0 and 2.5 g/kg (P < 0.05). Based on the obtained results, G. persica can be used as a feasible feed additive in the diets of Persian sturgeon at 5–10 g/kg diet.

Partial replacement of fishmeal with corn protein concentrate in diets for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): Effects on growth performance, physiometabolic responses, and fillet quality

An 8-week feeding trial was run to investigate the replacement of fishmeal with corn protein concentrate (CPC; Empyreal®) in rainbow trou (100.5 ± 2.3 g) diet. Fishmeal was increasingly replaced with 0 (Control), 30 (CPC3), 60 (CPC6), 90 (CPC9) and 120 (CPC12) g/kg CPC. The results showed that the substitution of fishmeal with CPC up to 90 g/kg did not cause significant differences in the growth indices as compared to the control group, while further replacement resulted in the reduction of the growth performance. The fillet crude protein showed no significant difference between the control diet and diets containing up to 90 g/kg CPC (p > .05). Serum biochemical parameters such as albumin and glucose did not change notably, while the highest levels of alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase were seen in the CPC12 group (p < .05). Also, serum lysozyme activity was increased with the elevation of dietary CPC up to 90 g/kg (p < .05). The redness and yellowness of the fillet were markedly elevated with the dietary incorporation of CPC (p < .05). Taken together, the optimum range of fishmeal substitution with CPC was 81.0–82.2 g/kg CPC in rainbow diet based on the broken-line regression analysis.

Effects of dietary fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) leaves powder on serum and mucus antioxidant defence, immunological responses, antimicrobial activity and growth performance of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) juveniles

A 56-day research was performed to examine the influence of graded levels (0 (control), 0.5, 1 and 2%) of Fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) leaves powder (FLP) in diet on immune competence and growth of common carp (Cyprinus carpio, initial weight = 20 g). The serum total immunoglobulins content and lysozyme activity in the 1 and 2% FLP groups remarkably increased compared to the other groups (P < 0.05). The skin mucosal lysozyme activity enhanced with increasing dietary FLP level in a dose-response manner. Fish fed on the FLP-supplemented diets had higher skin-mucosal superoxide dismutase activity than the control (P < 0.05). However, serum antioxidant enzymes were not affected by dietary fern (P > 0.05). The serum bactericidal activity against human and fish pathogens increased with enhancing the FLP level in diet against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli (EHEC ATCC 43895), Escherichia coli (CI), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia and Aeromonas hydrophila. The serum antibacterial activity against Yersinia ruckeri in the 2% FLP group was higher than the other treatments. Furthermore, the serum bactericidal activity against P. aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) only observed in fish fed on the 1 and 2% FLP-supplemented diets. The skin mucosal bactericidal activity and inhibitory effects increased with enhancing the FLP level in diet against E. coli, K. pneumonia, Y. ruckeri and A. hydrophila in a dose response manner. Moreover, the skin mucosal bactericidal activity against S. aureus only observed in fish fed on 1 and 2% FLP-supplemented diets. The weight gain values in the 1 and 2% FLP groups were higher than the other treatments (P < 0.05). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved with increasing FLP level in diet in a dose-response manner (P < 0.05). By considering serum and mucosal bactericidal activities against different pathogenic bacteria, the supplementation of 2% FLP in diet is recommended for C. carpio during grow-out phase.

Immunomodulation, antioxidant enhancement and immune genes up-regulation in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed on seaweeds included diets

This study investigated the stimulatory effects of dietary inclusion of Gracilariopsis persica (GP), Hypnea flagelliformis (HF) and Sargassum boveanum (SB) on immune indices, antioxidant capability and immune related genes expression of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Seven iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric diets with 0, 5 and 10% of each macroalgae were prepared and fed to rainbow trout juveniles for 83 days. Serum lysozyme (Lyz) and respiratory burst activity (NBT) along with activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) and expression of LyzII, TNFα and IL-1β genes in head kidney samples were determined by days 47 and 83. Our results revealed that dietary inclusion of seaweeds improved fish immune status. Long term feeding of fish on seaweed contained diets (except for GP10) improved serum Lyz activity in comparison to control group. Similarly, extended feeding on GP5 and HF10 and HF10 included diets improved SOD and POD levels, respectively. Genes expression studies revealed that seaweeds contained diets noticeably enhanced expression of LyzII, TNFα and IL-1β in comparison to control fish. However, results revealed that such stimulatory effects were more evident at lower dietary inclusion level and shorter feeding time. In conclusion, the results depicted that dietary inclusion of the seaweeds effectively improved serum immune indices and head kidney antioxidant status and immune related genes expression in a time and dose dependent manner.

Sazan (Cyrpinus carpio), Sudak (Sander lucioperca), Gümüşi Havuz Balığı (Carassius gibelio) ve Kerevit (Astacus leptodactylus) Örneklerinde Serum Lizozim Aktivitelerinin Karşılaştırılması

In this study, serum lysozyme activity was studied by the agar well diffusion assay in various species of fish (common carp, Cyprinus carpio, pikeperch, Sander lucioperca, prussian carp, Carassius gibelio) and crayfish (Astacus leptodactylus) obtained from three different regions in spring and autumn in 2013. The highest levels of lysozyme activity were found in pikeperch fish, followed by common carp, prussian carp, and crayfish, respectively. There was no significant difference between common carp, prussian carp, and crayfish, but it was found a significant between pikeperch fish and the other species (p&amp;lt;0.05). There was a significant difference of serum lysozyme levels between spring and autumn in common carp, prussian carp and crayfish (p&amp;lt;0.05). There was no significant difference between seasons in pikeperch fish. These results showed different of the lysozyme activity in the fish innate immune system in the aquatic ecosystem of different species.

Curcumin supplement diet: Enhanced growth and down‐regulated expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in Labeo rohita fingerlings

The present study was conducted to determine the effect of curcumin supplement diet (CSD) on growth, non-specific immunity and pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in Labeo rohita fingerlings. 60-day (0–45 days pre-challenge and 15 days post challenge; Aeromonas hydrophila) experiment was conducted for with four treatment groups: T1 (0.5% curcumin level), T2 (1% curcumin level), T3 (1.5% curcumin level), T4 (2% curcumin level) and a control group (0% curcumin level). Kidney tissue samples were collected for RT-PCR from all the treatment groups at 15 days of interval. After 45 days of feeding, a sub-sample of fish (15 fish from each replicate) were challenged with a virulent strain of A. hydrophila. The mRNA expression levels of immune-related genes, viz. tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Toll-like receptor-22 (TLR-22), were evaluated along with nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) assay and lysozyme activity. TNF-α mRNA expression levels were significantly lowered in CSD treatment with the lowest level observed in the T2 treatment group, followed by T1 during pre-challenging period respectively. The IL-1β and TLR-22 expression levels also followed the similar trend in different treatment groups. Similarly, NBT and serum lysozyme activities were significantly different among treatment groups. Fish fed with 1.5% level curcumin diet (T3) had significantly highest relative percentage survival (63.64%) compared to the rest of the treatment groups. The results suggested that the diet supplemented with 1.5% curcumin level provides protective effect against A. hydrophila in L. rohita by increasing immunity and reducing the activity of pro-inflammatory genes.

Effects of three medicinal herbs Bidens pilosa, Lonicera japonica, and Cyathula officinalis on growth and non-specific immune responses of cobia (Rachycentron canadum)

This study investigates the effects of three medicinal herbal extracts, namely Bidens pilosa (BPE), Lonicera japonica (LJE), and Cyathula officinalis (COE), on nonspecific immune parameters of cobia (Rachycentron canadum) in vitro and in vivo. During in vitro tests, BPE treatment increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in a dose-dependent manner in primary head kidney leukocytes. Similarly, ROS production rates were enhanced by LJE (50 and 100 mg/ml) and COE (100 mg/ml). This suggests that these three herbal extracts possess immunostimulating properties. We then conducted two feeding trials to examine the effects of these three herbal extracts on growth and innate immune parameters of cobia, and sought an optimal dietary supplementation proportion required for activating the non-specific immune responses. In the first trial, we supplemented the diet with 1, 5, or 10% of the individual extracts. After a ten-week feeding trial, no negative impacts on weight gain, feed conversion rate, and survival rate were observed in fish offered experimental diets. Further, ROS production, phagocytic capacity of the head kidney leukocytes, and serum lysozyme activity were enhanced by differing degrees in fish fed the herbal extracts compared to fish in the control group. A similar albumin/globulin ratio was seen between each experimental group and the control group regardless of the type and dose of herbal extract used, indicating these medicinal herbal extracts are safe for cobia. We then performed a 30-day feeding trial with lower extract concentrations (1, 3, and 5% of the diet) to identify dose responses in cobia at various time points so that we could establish a cost-effective manner of administering the three extracts for cobia. All BPE fed fish had higher ROS production compared to the control group, while phagocytosis rate and index were simultaneously raised in only the BPE30 group (3% BPE). Immune parameters such as ROS production, phagocytic rate, and serum lysozyme activity were triggered when fish received 30 g LJE per kg of feed. However, ROS production only increased in the LJE10 group (1% LJE) on day 30 and was not enhanced in the LJE50 group (5% LJE). Additionally, although the phagocytic rate and phagocytic index were induced in the LJE50 group, serum lysozyme activity was not elevated in this group (LJE50) at any time point examined. ROS production was greatly improved in all COE fed groups, but only the COE30 group (3% COE) showed prolonged enhanced phagocytic rate over the 30-day feeding trial.

Evaluation of hemato-immunological parameters and stress indicators of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) in different C/N ratio of biofloc system

In spite of various advantages of biofloc technology in aquaculture, few studies have focused on the health status of fish in biofloc system. In this survey, the effect of cane molasses as a carbon source of biofloc system on hemato-immunological parameters, antioxidant status, and stress indicators of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) was investigated. Four hundred and twenty juvenile common carp (40.2 ± 5.76 g) were randomly divided into four equal groups in triplicates as follows: groups A, B, and C were reared in biofloc system with molasses as a carbon source with C/N ratio of 15, 20, and 25, respectively, whereas control group (D) was reared in similar intensity without biofloc system. Fish were reared for 90 days and samples were taken on days 0, 30, 60, and 90 of the experiment. Immunological parameters including serum lysozyme and bactericidal activity, serum complement and IgM level, and NBT reduction and resistance to bacterial challenge as well as hematological parameters (RBC, WBC, hematocrit, hemoglobin) were assessed in experimental groups. Meanwhile, antioxidative enzyme activity (glutathione and superoxide dismutase, catalase) and stress indicators (glucose and cortisol level) were measured and compared among the groups. Water quality parameters were evaluated in all groups. Results showed that most of the immunological parameters as well as resistance against bacterial infection increased in biofloc groups (particularly in C/N = 20 groups) (P < 0.05). Hematological parameters and antioxidative enzyme activity were not affected by biofloc systems. Stress indicators showed a significant decrease in biofloc system, particularly in C/N = 20 group compared with control (P < 0.05). The results indicated that biofloc system (particularly C/N ratio = 20 groups) could not only improve immunological parameters, antioxidative status, and water quality but it decreased stress statues of common carp.

The growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immunological responses, and the resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed Pistacia vera hulls derived polysaccharide

The present study aimed at evaluating the supplementation of dietary Pistacia vera hulls derived polysaccharide (PHDP) at varying levels (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 g/kg diet) on the growth rate, digestive enzyme activity, immune response, and antioxidative capacity of Nile tilapia. After the feeding trial (60 days), fish were injected intraperitoneally with Aeromonas hydrophila, and the cumulative mortality was calculated for 10 days. The final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, survival rate, amylase activity, red blood cells, hemoglobin, serum total protein, and serum lysozyme activity (LZM) were significantly higher in fish fed PHDP at 5 and 10 g/kg than fish fed 0 and 2.5 g/kg diet (P ≤ 0.05). However, the feed conversion ratio and glucose levels were significantly decreased by 5 and 10 g PHDP/kg diet. Further, the protease digestive activity, serum alkaline phosphatase, and serum alternative complement (ACH50) had higher values in fish fed 5 g PHDP/kg diet than tilapia fed 0 g PHDP/kg diet (P ≤ 0.05). The serum protease and immunoglobulin (Ig) presented the highest values in fish fed 10 g PHDP/kg diet followed by fish fed 5 g PHDP/kg diet (P ≤ 0.05). The LZM, ACH50, and Ig in the mucus samples were significantly higher in fish fed 5 or 10 g PHDP/kg diet than fish fed 0 g PHDP/kg diet (P ≤ 0.05). The levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the liver tissue was significantly higher in fish fed 5 or 10 g PHDP/kg diet than fish fed 2.5 g PHDP/kg diet (P ≤ 0.05). On the other hand, malondialdehyde concentration was significantly lower in tilapia fed 5 and 10 g PHDP/kg diet than tilapia fed 0 and 2.5 g PHDP/kg diet (P ≤ 0.05). The lowest mortality rate and the highest relative percentage survival were in fish fed 5 g/kg followed by 10 g level after 10 days of A. hydrophila injection. Accordingly, dietary PHDP at 5–10 g/kg is recommended to improve the growth performance, antioxidative capacity, immune response, and resistance against A. hydrophila in Nile tilapia.

Effect of dietary seaweed extract supplementation on growth, feed utilization, hematological indices, and non-specific immunity of Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila

Seaweeds have increasing importance because of their bioactive compounds and their potential application in different industries. Liquid seaweed extract are commercially used as an agricultural biofertilizer. The current work investigated the potential of a commercial liquid seaweed extract, named TrueAlgaeMax (TAM), as a diet feed additive for Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus. Five diets (D0, D0.5, D1, D1.5, and D2) were supplemented with different TAM concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2%, respectively) to investigate the growth performance, feed utilization, and non-specific immunity of O. niloticus challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. Healthy mono-sex O. niloticus fingerlings were randomly stocked for 70 days in net enclosures (3 m × 6 m × 1 m) at a density of 20 fish m−3 with an average initial body weight of 50 g fingerling−1 (three groups for each treatment with a total of 1080 fish per treatment). Diet D2 represented the highest weight gain (WG) value (161.29 g), average daily weight gain (ADWG) value (2.30 g day−1), and specific growth rate (SGR) value (2.40% day−1) and achieved the best feed conversion ratio (FCR) value (1.31). In addition, D2 achieved the highest serum protein (5.47 g dL−1), lysozyme (3.75 μg mL−1), and respiratory burst activity (1.89 mg mL−1). Fish mortality decreased by increasing TAM levels. The GC-Mass data of TAM showed nine main phytochemical compounds belonging to seven different important bioactive groups reported as immunity enhancer and growth promoting and showed antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The results recommended that increasing the levels of TAM up to 2% as feed additive for O. niloticus diet strongly enhances growth performance, feed utilization, and non-specific immunity of Nile tilapia O. niloticus challenged with A. hydrophila. Considering seaweed additions (dry weight or extract) as aquaculture feed additive is of importance.