Herbs as thermoregulatory agents in poultry: An overview

Effects of high dietary threonine supplementation on growth performance, health biomarkers, and intestinal histology in cyclic heat-stressed broilers

Background and Aim

Heat stress (HS) negatively impacts poultry production by reducing growth performance and compromising physiological health. Nutritional strategies, particularly amino acid supplementation, are explored to mitigate these adverse effects. This study evaluates the impact of high dietary threonine supplementation on growth performance, health biomarkers, oxidative status, meat quality, and intestinal histology in cyclic HS broilers.

Materials and Methods

A total of 288 1-day-old Hubbard broilers were randomly allocated to six treatment groups: Thermoneutral, HS control, and HS supplemented with 125% (HS-125), 150% (HS-150), 175% (HS-175), and 200% (HS-200) of NRC-recommended threonine. Birds in the HS groups were exposed to cyclic HS (35°C, 75% relative humidity) from day 22 to day 42. Growth performance was recorded weekly, while physiological parameters, oxidative stress markers, and jejunal histology were analyzed post-exsanguination.

Results

HS significantly reduced body weight gain and feed intake, while threonine supplementation did not improve these parameters. However, liver weight, serum albumin, and cholesterol levels improved at higher threonine doses (175%-200%). Threonine also reduced serum corticosterone and malondialdehyde levels, suggesting enhanced stress resilience. Superoxide dismutase activity, an indicator of oxidative defense, improved in threonine-supplemented groups. In jejunal histology, acidic goblet cells increased, and intraepithelial lymphocyte infiltration decreased in birds supplemented with 175%-200% threonine, indicating enhanced gut integrity. Meat quality attributes, including crude protein and oxidative stability, showed minor but inconsistent variations across treatments.

Conclusion

Although high dietary threonine supplementation (175%-200%) improved stress resilience by enhancing oxidative status, intestinal health, and selected physiological biomarkers in HS broilers, however, it failed to enhance growth performance. These findings suggest that while threonine supports physiological adaptations under HS, its use as a growth promoter under HS conditions may not be economically viable. Further studies are warranted to optimize amino acid balance in HS broilers for improved productivity.

Effect of Lactococcus lactis JNU 534 Supplementation on the Performance, Blood Parameters and Meat Characteristics of Salmonella enteritidis Inoculated Broilers

Salmonellosis in broilers is a disease with considerable economic implications for the poultry industry. As a foodborne illness, it also poses a public health risk due to potential cross-contamination. Probiotics have been proposed as alternative feed additives aiming to enhance growth, livestock productivity, and overall health. This study investigated the dietary impact of Lactococcus lactis JNU 534 on growth performance, blood characteristics, internal organ weight, and meat quality in broilers inoculated with Salmonella enteritidis (SE). A total of 96 one-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chickens, comprising both sexes, were challenged with SE and randomly assigned into two treatment groups and housed in eight pens (four pens per each treatment, with 12 birds per pen). They were fed a commercial broiler diet for 35 days. The two dietary treatment groups consisted of a control group receiving commercial feed, and a treatment group receiving commercial feed supplemented with 0.3% L. lactis JNU 534. Probiotic supplementation significantly improved average body weight gain, feed efficiency, and carcass yield compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Notably, the abdominal fat pad was significantly reduced in the probiotics group (p < 0.05). Meat quality assessments revealed no significant differences between the groups in terms of meat pH, cooking loss, drip loss, and water-holding capacity. These findings suggest that L. lactis JNU 534 is a promising candidate to mitigate the negative effects of Salmonella on growth performance in commercial broiler farms, without adversely affecting health. Extending the research to other types of livestock could help confirm its wider use as an alternative to antibiotics.

Embryonic heat conditioning induces paternal heredity of immunological cross- tolerance: coordinative role of CpG DNA methylation and miR-200a regulation

Background

Enhancing an organism's survival hinges on the development of balanced and adaptable stress response systems. While the initial stress-response set-points in the hypothalamus may be genetically determined, they are further influenced by epigenetic factors during embryonic development. A debate persists regarding the heritability of such behavioral traits. The chick in ovo heat conditioning model offers a unique insight into this fundamental question, where manipulation during embryonic development can induce heat resilience and even cross-tolerance to promote immunological resilience. In this study, we conducted an analysis of thermal manipulation during embryogenesis to demonstrate paternal heredity and investigate its transmission through sperm DNA methylation in coordination with miR-200a action.

Result

First-generation embryos underwent in ovo heat conditioning (EHC), creating a cohort of embryonic EHC and control chicks. These chicks were then subjected to an intracranial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Conditioning rendered the chicks immune resilient, as evidenced by their fibril effect. Male offspring were raised to maturity, and their sperm was analyzed for methylome patterns, revealing significant differences between treatments, particularly in immune and development related genes. Additionally, sperm from EHC males was used for artificial insemination of naïve Cobb hens, resulting in untreated offspring that displayed immune resilience upon LPS challenge, indicating transgenerational effects. Overlap analysis of sperm methylome and differentially methylated sites (DMS) of offspring hypothalamus revealed inheritance of altered methylation associated with specific genes. Several of these genes are potential effectors of miR-200a, whose expression profile in the hypothalamus during LPS challenge was conserved across both generations. To evaluate the role of miR-200a in cross-tolerance acquisition, miR-200a was intracranially injected, and RNA-seq analysis of the hypothalamus revealed genes involved in the regulation of developmental and metabolic processes, stress, and immune response.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates paternal trait heredity by revealing that EHC induces cross-tolerance with the immunological system, rendering chicks resilient to LPS that transgenerationally transmit this to untreated offspring. Additionally, analysis of sperm methylation patterns in EHC mature chicks led to identification of genes associated with neuronal development and immune response, indicating potential neural network reorganization. Finally, miR-200a emerges as a regulator potentially involved in mediating the cross-tolerance effect.

Meat Quality, Intestinal Microbiology and Serum Biochemical Parameters of Broilers Fed Different Levels of Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) and Mulberry (Morus alba) Leaves Powder

BACKGROUND

Today, customers pay more attention to the feed composition and carcasses of poultry, and the interest in using natural and safe compounds such as medicinal plants and their extracts in animal feed is increasing.

OBJECTIVES

The present experiment was conducted to assess the effect of green tea (Camellia sinensis) and mulberry (Morus alba) leaves powder on the meat quality, intestinal microbiology and serum biochemical parameters in broilers.

METHODS

The experiment was conducted with 648 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler male chicks with a factorial arrangement including three levels of green tea powder (GTP) and three levels of mulberry leaf powder (MLP), with nine treatments and six replications in a completely randomized design for 42 days. Treatments included: (1) no GTP + no MLP (control), (2) 1% GTP + no MLP, (3) 2% GTP + no MLP, (4) no GTP + 1% MLP, (5) 1% GTP + 1% MLP, (6) 2% GTP + 1% MLP, (7) no GTP + 2% MLP, (8) 1% GTP + 2% MLP and (9) 2% GTP + 2% MLP.

RESULTS

The results showed that the lowest lightness (L*), drip loss and total cholesterol levels, and the highest Lactobacillus population were observed in treatments: 1% GTP + no MLP, 2% GTP + no MLP, 1% GTP + 1% MLP, 2% GTP + 1% MLP, no GTP + 2% MLP, 1% GTP + 2% MLP and 2% GTP + 2% MLP (p < 0.05). The groups receiving 1% GTP + 1% MLP, 2% GTP + 1% MLP, no GTP + 2% MLP, 1% GTP + 2% MLP and 2% GTP + 2% MLP had the highest pH 24 h (p < 0.05). The chickens fed with 1% and 2% GTP showed lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and malondialdehyde (MAD) levels (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that using the GTP and MLP in the diet of broilers could improve meat quality traits and beneficial ileal bacteria populations and reduce serum lipid and MDA levels.

Methionine and vitamin E supplementation improve production performance, antioxidant potential, and liver health in aged laying hens

Sulfur metabolites of methionine (Met) and vitamin E (VE) have antioxidant potential and can maintain liver health in chickens. This study explored the underlying mechanisms of Met sources, the ratio of total sulfur amino acids to lysine (TSAA: Lys), and VE levels on production performances, antioxidant potential, and hepatic oxidation in aged laying hens. Eight hundred and sixty-four, Hy-Line Brown laying hens (70-week age) were divided into 12 treatment groups, each having 6 repeats and 12 birds/each repeat. The dietary treatments consisted of DL-Met (DL-Met), DL-2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio)-butanoic acid (OH-Met), 3 ratios of TSAA: Lys (0.90, 0.95, and 1.00), and 2 levels of VE (20 and 40 g/ton). Albumen height and Haugh unit significantly increased at a lower level of VE (P < 0.05). Triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) in serum and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities (CAT) in the liver significantly reduced at 0.95 TSAA: Lys ratio (P < 0.05). Fatty acid synthase (FAS), lipoprotein lipase (LPL), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 alpha (CPT-1α) also upregulated at this TSAA: Lys ratio (P < 0.05). Compared with the DL-Met group, the OH-Met group had lower Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 (DPP4) and higher TC, LDL, and VLDL concentrations (P < 0.05).The expression of FAS,CPT-1α), glutathione (GSH), glutathione disulfide (GSSG), glutathione synthetase (GSS), and Nrf2 were significantly higher in OH-Met compared with the DL-Met group (P < 0.05). OH-Met at 0.95 and DL-Met at 0.90 TSAA: Lys ratio showed higher CAT and lower aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities. Moreover, OH-Met at 0.90 and DL-Met at 0.95 of the TSAA: Lys ratio had a significant reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) (P < 0.05). Overall, these results suggest that OH-Met source with a lower level of VE positively influenced production performance and improved liver health in aged laying hens through improved lipid metabolism and hepatic antioxidant function.

Integration of metabolomics and transcriptomics to reveal anti-immunosuppression mechanism of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide

It is well documented that immunosuppression in chickens increases the risk of secondary infections and immunodeficiencies, resulting in significant financial setbacks for the poultry sector. It is crucial to determine if Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) can counteract immune suppression in young chickens, considering its known ability to modulate immune responses. The aim of this study was to investigate the antagonistic effect and mechanism of LBP on immunosuppression in chicks. A total of 200 seven-day-old Hyland Brown laying hens were used to develop an immunosuppression model and to investigate the optimal time of use and optimal dosage of LBP. A further 120 seven-day-old Hyland Brown laying hens were used to investigate the mechanism of antagonism of LBP against immunosuppression at the optimal time and dosage. The results demonstrated that LBP significantly elevated body weight, spleen index, and peripheral lymphocyte transformation rate, and ameliorated pathological spleen damage in immunosuppressed chickens. A total of 178 differential genes were significantly upregulated following LBP intervention, with a significant enrichment in immune-related pathways, including the chemokine signalling pathway, the C-type lectin receptor signalling pathway, the B-cell receptor signalling pathway, platelet activation, natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation. A total of 20 different metabolites were identified by metabolomics, which were mainly involved in vitamin metabolism, lipid metabolism, nucleic acid metabolism and amino acid metabolism. The integrated examination of transcriptomic and metabolomic data revealed that the glycerophospholipid metabolic pathway stands out as the most significant among all metabolic pathways. The results demonstrated that LBP regulate the immune system in a multi-pathway and multi-target way.

Effects of dietary rosemary ultrafine powder supplementation on aged hen health and productivity: a randomized controlled trial

Recently, poultry industry has been seeking antibiotic residue-free poultry products and safe nutritious feed additives. Whether rosemary ultrafine powder (RUP) affects productive performance by regulating the intestinal microbiome of aged layers remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of dietary RUP supplementation on the production performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, intestinal microbial structure, and metabolome of aged hens. The results indicate that RUP had no significant effect on production performance but significantly enhanced Thick albumen height, Haugh unit, yolk color (P < 0.05), daily feed intake, and qualified egg rate. Serum content of non-esterified fatty acids, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase increased significantly (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the liver total protein content was significantly increased (P < 0.05). 16S rRNA sequence analysis revealed that RUP significantly impacted both α- and β-diversity of the caecum microbiota. Linear discriminant analysis of effect size and random forest identified Bacteroides, Muribaculum, Butyricimonas, Odoribacter, and Prevotella as biomarkers in groups A and B. In comparing groups A and C, Barnesiella, Turicibacter, and Acholeplasma were critical bacteria, while comparing groups A and D highlighted Barnesiella and Candidatus Saccharimonas as differential bacteria. FAPROTAX analysis of the caecum microbiota revealed that the functional genes associated with harmful substance biodegradation were significantly increased in the RUP-fed group. Based on Spearman correlation analysis, alterations in microbial genera were associated with divergent metabolites. In summary, dietary RUP can improve egg quality and antioxidant capacity and regulate the intestinal microbiome and metabolome in aged breeders. Therefore, RUP can potentially be used as a feed additive to extend breeder service life at an appropriate level of 1.0 g/kg.

Effects of oregano and/or rosemary extracts on growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, cecal bacteria, tight junction proteins, and antioxidants-related genes in heat-stressed broiler chickens

The study examined the impact of adding oregano extract and/or rosemary to broiler diets to counteract the growth inhibition caused by heat stress (HS). It also investigated the effects on the activity of digestive enzymes, microbiological composition, and the expression of antioxidant and tight junction-related proteins. Three hundred- and fifty-day-old male broilers, were randomly assigned to 7 treatment groups, with each group comprising 5 replicates, and each replicate containing 10 chicks in a cage. The diets were: 1) a basal diet, 2) a diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg of rosemary, 3) a diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg of rosemary, 4) a diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg of oregano, 5) a diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg of oregano, 6) a combination diet containing 50 mg/kg each of rosemary and oregano, and 7) a combination diet containing 100 mg/kg each of rosemary and oregano. Dietary oregano extract enhanced the growth and feed utilization of heat-stressed birds, especially at a concentration of 50 mg/kg. Moreover, oregano extract improved jejunal protease and amylase activities. The extracts of rosemary and oregano significantly reduced IgG and IgM levels. Dietary 50 mg oregano extract significantly upregulated intestinal integrity-related genes including jejunal CLDNI, ZO-1, ZO-2, and MUC2. Dietary 50 mg oregano extract significantly downregulated hepatic NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) and nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) expressions. Our results suggest that incorporating oregano leaf extract into the diet at a concentration of 50 mg/kg improves the growth performance of broilers exposed to heat stress. This improvement could be attributed to enhanced gut health and the modulation of genes associated with oxidative stress and tight junction proteins.

The effects of Artemisia Sieberi, Achillea Fragrantissima, and Olea Europaea leaves on the performance and physiological parameters in heat-stressed broiler chickens

High temperatures have detrimental effects on the performance and physiology of broiler chickens. Medicinal plants have various biological activities and may enhance the heat resistance of chickens during heat waves. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the potential roles of using specific local medicinal plants to alleviate the negative impacts of heat stress (HS) in broilers. In this study, 180 day-old chicks were used to investigate the effects of HS and dietary indigenous medicinal plants on growth performance, antioxidant biomarkers, and intestinal health. The chicks were assigned to six groups (18 pens with 10 chicks per pen) with three replicates each. In the first group, the chicks were kept under thermoneutral conditions (CON) and fed a basal diet. The other five groups were exposed to recurrent heat stress and fed a basal diet (T1, HS group) or supplemented with Artemisia Sieberi (1.25 g/kg of feed; T2), Achillea Fragrantissima (15 g/kg of feed; T3), Olea europaea (10 g/kg of feed; T4), and all the previous additives (all-in-one) combined at the same dose levels mentioned above (T5). At 21 days of age, the chicks from each group were exposed to two phases of heat stress: phase 1 from days 21 to 34 (34 ± 1°C) followed by phase 2 from days 35 to 39 (37 ± 1°C). The results indicate that HS significantly increased rectal temperature and respiration rate in broiler chickens. Feed intake and body weight gain were improved in all supplemented groups, while the feed conversion ratio was decreased in response to the dietary inclusion of medicinal plants. Additionally, glutathione peroxidase and immunoglobulin G levels were increased in the T3, T4, and T5 groups compared to the other groups. HS induced significant upregulated in the mRNA levels of heat shock protein 70 and interleukin-8, while the mRNA of occludin was decreased. The T3, T4, and T5 showed significantly decreased expression of hepatic HSP70 and ileum IL-8 genes and increased ileum mRNA occludin levels relative to the CON and T1 groups. In conclusion, supplementation with these plants enhances growth performance and maintains intestinal health sustaining the productivity of broiler chickens under HS conditions.

Effects of medical plants on alleviating the effects of heat stress on chickens

Over the past decades, global climate change has led to a significant increase in the average ambient temperature causing heat stress (HS) waves. This increase has resulted in more frequent heat waves during the summer periods. HS can have detrimental effects on poultry, including growth retardation, imbalance in immune/antioxidant pathways, inflammation, intestinal dysfunction, and economic losses in the poultry industry. Therefore, it is crucial to find an effective, safe, applicable, and economically efficient method for reducing these negative influences. Medicinal plants (MPs) contain various bioactive compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Due to the biological activities of MPs, it could be used as promising thermotolerance agents in poultry diets during HS conditions. Nutritional supplementation with MPs has been shown to improve growth performance, antioxidant status, immunity, and intestinal health in heat-exposed chickens. As a result, several types of herbs have been supplemented to mitigate the harmful effects of heat stress in chickens. Therefore, several types of herbs have been supplemented to mitigate the harmful effects of heat stress in chickens. This review aims to discuss the negative consequences of HS in poultry and explore the use of different traditional MPs to enhance the health status of chickens.

Olive oil and its derivatives for promoting performance, health, and struggling thermal stress effects on broilers

Olive oil (OL) production is the most significant agro-industrial business and has a high impact on the economy of numerous Mediterranean countries. However, OL extraction results in massive amounts of byproducts, including a solid residue (olive cake or olive pomace) and an aqueous stage (olive mill wastewater), which have serious environmental effects due to their hazardous nature and excessive organic content. Despite these byproducts causing environmental pollution, they can be applied for animal feeding. According to the literature, OL or its derivatives have been used to promote broiler performance, feed utilization, and health status in broilers as growth promoters or protein sources. Furthermore, using OL and its derivatives could improve heat resistance in stressed broilers via struggling thermal stress effects. In this framework, we highlighted the use of OL and its byproducts in broiler feeding to promote performance and health status. Additionally, the role of these byproducts and OL in combating thermal stress is investigated for sustainable strategy and promoting circular economy in broiler industry.

Dietary encapsulated fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) essential oil supplementation improves performance, modifies the intestinal microflora, morphology, and transcriptome profile of broiler chickens

Global antimicrobial resistance has led to a ban on the use of antibiotics as growth promoters (AGPs) in poultry farming, encouraging the use of natural phytogenic feed additives that provide similar effects to AGPs without causing resistance. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the addition of encapsulated fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) essential oil (FEO) into the diets on the performance, intestinal microflora, morphology, and transcriptomic profiling of broiler chickens. In the study, 400 one-d-old male chicks of the Ross-308 genotype were randomly distributed into five groups, each with 16 replicates of five birds. The experiment included a control group fed on basal diets without the addition of FEO and treatment groups supplemented with 50 (FEO50), 100 (FEO100), 200 (FEO200), or 400 (FEO400) mg of encapsulated FEO/kg. Body weight and the European Production Efficiency Factor values were higher in the FEO100, FEO200, and FEO400 groups (P < 0.05). The feed conversion ratio significantly improved at all FEO levels (P < 0.05). FEO supplementation improved duodenum, jejunum, and ileum morphologies. It enhanced mucosal layer thickness in the duodenum and jejunum, and muscular layer thickness in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). It also increased the number of Lactobacillus spp. in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05). According to the transcriptome profile obtained from the microarray analysis of samples taken from small intestine tissues, the mRNA expression levels of 261 genes in the FEO50 group (206 upregulated and 55 downregulated), 302 genes in the FEO100 group (218 upregulated and 84 downregulated), 292 genes in the FEO200 group (231 upregulated and 61 downregulated), and 348 genes in the FEO400 group (268 upregulated and 80 downregulated) changed compared to the control group. Most upregulated genes were associated with catalytic activity, binding, transcription regulators and transcription factors, anatomical structure and cellular development, and protein binding activity modulators. The downregulated genes mostly belonged to the transporter, carrier, and protein-modifying enzyme classes. Besides, the anti-inflammatory IL-10 gene (4.41-fold) increased significantly in the FEO100 group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, FEO improved the performance of broiler chickens by regulating biological processes such as performance and intestinal health, with the 100 mg FEO/kg supplementation being the most prominent.

Herbal inclusions ameliorate effect of heat stress on haematology, proinflammatory cytokines, adipokines and oxidative stress of weaned rabbit does in humid tropics

A study was designed to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera, Phyllanthus amarus and Viscum album leaf meal as herbal inclusions to alleviate the detrimental outcomes of heat stress in weaned female rabbits. Forty (40) weaned rabbit does (527.99 ± 10.35 g; 28 days old) were randomly allotted to four dietary groups consisting of Diet 1(control diet; without leaf meal), Diets 2 (supplemented with 10% V. album); 3 (supplemented with 10% M. oleifera) and 4 (supplemented with 10% P. amarus) in an 84 days trial at the peak of heat stress in Southwest Nigeria. At the end of the trial, blood samples were collected to assess physiological responses and oxidative status of the rabbit does. The results obtained revealed that rabbit does were exposed to heat stress; rabbit does fed control diet had higher leucocyte and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio compared to rabbit does fed on herbal inclusions. The herbal inclusions enhanced oxidative stability of rabbit does by lowering lipid peroxidation and enhancing antioxidant activities during heat stress conditions. Rabbit does fed control-based diet had significantly higher heat shock protein 70, leptin and adiponectin compared to rabbit does on M. oleifera, P. amarus and V. album supplemented diets. The herbal inclusions tend to suppress proinflammatory cytokines in rabbit does during heat stress condition. In conclusion, the herbal inclusions suppress inflammation, adipokines and promotes oxidative stability of rabbit does exposed to heat stress conditions.

Potentials of Phyllanthus amarus, Viscum album and Moringa oleifera supplements to mitigate heat stress in female rabbits in humid tropics

Global warming is a key challenge subjecting animals to heat stress conditions resulting in multiple physiological alterations in tropical climate. Dietary approach seems to be the more friendly approach to curb the adverse effects of heat stress in rabbits. Some herbs have been categorized to have high potential for promotion of immune responses for amelioration of heat stress. Thus, this research aims to evaluate the potential of Mistletoe (Viscum album), Moringa (Moringa oleifera) and Phyllanthus (Phyllanthus amarus) leaf meal as herbal supplements for the alleviation of heat stress in female rabbits by measuring improvement in sex and stress hormonal responses in serum biochemistry. 80 Rabbit does were exposed to 4 dietary groups supplemented with each of Mistletoe, Moringa, Phyllanthus and a control in an 84-day trial at the summit of thermal stress in South west Nigeria. Growth indices were monitored throughout the study, blood samples were compiled at the end of the trial to assess serum biochemistry, stress and sex hormonal responses of the Does using standard protocols. The results revealed that final weight and weight gain of Does fed on Phyllanthus were significantly (p < 0.05) higher (11.46% and 14.25%, respectively) than Does on control. The herbal supplements enhance glucose, protein, albumin and globulin, reduced cholesterol, and creatinine of Does under heat stress conditions. Among the herbal treatment groups, mistletoe, moringa and phyllanthus had 12.42%, 18.39% and 16.90%, respectively, lower corticosterone than control groups which had 39.76ng/ml. Triiodothyronine of Does fed control were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than Does on Moringa oleifera and Phyllanthus amarus supplements. Estradiol and Follicle stimulating hormone of rabbit Does fed on moringa supplement were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than other treatments. In conclusion, the herbal supplements tend to mitigate the detrimental outcome of thermal stress on Does by suppressing stress hormones. Moringa oleifera and Phyllanthus amarus enhanced sex hormones while Phyllanthus amarus confered growth promoting effects on the Does.

Early-age thermal manipulation and supplemental antioxidants on physiological, biochemical and productive performance of broiler chickens in hot-tropical environments

Heat stress has been ranked as a critical environmental issue confronting chicken farmers worldwide because of its detrimental effect on the growth, performance and health of the birds. This study evaluated the effects of early-age thermal manipulation (EATC) and supplemental antioxidants on the physiological responses of broilers in a hot tropical environment. A total of 300 day-old Ross broiler chicks were allocated to five thermal and dietary treatments, having 5 replicates of twelve birds each. The treatments were: chicks reared using the conventional method (CC), chicks exposed to early thermal manipulation with a temperature of 38 °C at day 5 with no antioxidant supplementation (TC), TC plus vitamin E at 250 mg/kg of feed (TV), TC plus selenium at 0.5 mg/kg of feed (TS) and the combination of TS and TV(TVS). The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design and data collected were analyzed using SAS (2008). The results showed that TVS broilers had significantly higher (P < 0.05) body weights at the finisher phase than the other treatment groups. The feed conversion ratio of TVS broilers was comparable to the TV group but lower (P < 0.05) than the other treatments. Reduced levels (P < 0.05) of heterophil, lymphocytes and hetrophil and lymphocyte ratio were recorded in the TVS compared to TV, TS and TC broilers. On day 42, the rectal temperature was significantly higher in CC than those in other treatment groups, which were comparable. TVS birds had higher (P < 0.05) weights of spleen, liver and lower abdominal fat than other treatments. The lowest concentration of plasma malondialdehyde and the highest activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were recorded in TV and TVS birds. The study concluded that the growth performance and oxidative status in broilers were improved by the combination of EATC with supplemental Se and vitamin E (TVS).

Protective impacts of mitochondria enhancers against thermal stress in poultry

Heat stress (HS) is still the essential environmental agent influencing the poultry industry. Research on HS in poultry has progressively acquired growing interest because of increased attention to climate alteration. Poultry can survive at certain zone of environmental temperatures, so it could be considered homoeothermic. In poultry, the normal body temperature is essential to enhance the internal environment for growth, which is achieved by normal environmental temperature. Recently, many studies have revealed that HS could cause mitochondrial dysfunction in broilers by inducing redox dysfunction, increasing uncoupling protein, boosting lipid and protein oxidation, and oxidative stress. Moreover, HS diminished the energy suppliers supported by mitochondria activity. A novel strategy for combating the negative influences of HS via boosting the mitochondria function through enrichment of the diets with mitochondria enhancers was also described in this review. Finally, the current review highlights the mitochondria dysfunction induced by HS in broilers and attempts to boost mitochondria functionality by enriching mitochondria enhancers to broiler diets.

Influence of hot red pepper oil in broiler diets on blood, antioxidant, immunological parameters and intestinal bacteria counts

The present study aimed to examine the impacts of supplementing hot red pepper oil (HRPO) to broiler diets. One hundred and twenty Arbor Acres chicks were divided randomly into four experimental groups as three supplementation levels of HRPO (0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 mL/kg diet) and the control group. Results showed that HRPO supplementation exhibited significantly (p < 0.001) higher red blood cells (RBCs) count, hemoglobin (Hb) and packed cells volume (PCV) percentage, while insignificant effects were shown for white blood cells (WBCs) count or its differentiation. Diets supplemented with different levels of HRPO influenced significantly (p < 0.001) the total protein (TP), albumin (Alb) and glucose (Glo) values of the studied birds. Results also indicated that different levels of HRPO supplementations significantly (p < 0.01) decreased total lipid, triglycerides (Trig), cholesterol (Cho) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), but did not affect high density lipoprotein (HDL) values. Data revealed that supplementing broiler diets with different levels of HRPO enhanced their liver function. The bactericidal activity index was significantly increased (p < 0.02) compared with control. HRPO supplemented groups had beneficial effects (p < 0.02) on cecal microbiota count. It could be concluded that dietary HRPO supplementation could improve the general internal health status of Arbor Acres broiler chicks.

Alleviating heat stress effects in poultry: updates on methods and mechanisms of actions

Heat stress is a threat that can lead to significant financial losses in the production of poultry in the world's tropical and arid regions. The degree of heat stress (mild, moderate, severe) experienced by poultry depends mainly on thermal radiation, humidity, the animal's thermoregulatory ability, metabolic rate, age, intensity, and duration of the heat stress. Contemporary commercial broiler chickens have a rapid metabolism, which makes them produce higher heat and be prone to heat stress. The negative effect of heat stress on poultry birds' physiology, health, production, welfare, and behaviors are reviewed in detail in this work. The appropriate mitigation strategies for heat stress in poultry are equally explored in this review. Interestingly, each of these strategies finds its applicability at different stages of a poultry's lifecycle. For instance, gene mapping prior to breeding and genetic selection during breeding are promising tools for developing heat-resistant breeds. Thermal conditioning during embryonic development or early life enhances the ability of birds to tolerate heat during their adult life. Nutritional management such as dietary manipulations, nighttime feeding, and wet feeding often, applied with timely and effective correction of environmental conditions have been proven to ameliorate the effect of heat stress in chicks and adult birds. As long as the climatic crises persist, heat stress may continue to require considerable attention; thus, it is imperative to explore the current happenings and pay attention to the future trajectory of heat stress effects on poultry production.

The Influence of a Nanoemulsion of Cardamom Essential Oil on the Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Carcass Characteristics, and Health Status of Growing Rabbits under a High Ambient Temperature

Recently, nanotechnology approaches have been employed to enhance the solubility, availability, and efficacy of phytochemicals, overcoming some industrial obstacles and natural biological barriers. In this regard, 120 clinically healthy growing V-line rabbits (5 weeks old) reared during the summer season were divided randomly into four equal experimental groups (30 rabbits each). The first group received a basal diet without the supplementation of the nanoemulsion of cardamom essential oil (NCEO) (0 g/kg diet) and served as a control (NCEO 0). The other groups were given diets containing NCEO at levels of 150 (NCEO 150), 300 (NCEO 300), and 600 (NCEO 600) mg/kg diet, respectively. The growth performance (higher LBW and ADG), feed utilization (lower FCR), dressing percentage, and relative weight of the liver were improved significantly in the NCEO-treated groups compared to the control group. Moreover, the dietary treatment significantly decreased the rectum temperature and respiration rate, minimizing the 350 and 325 mg NECO/kg diets. The erythrocyte count, hematocrit, and hemoglobin concentration were significantly increased (p < 0.05), while white blood cells were significantly diminished (p = 0.0200) in the NCEO300 and NCEO600 groups compared to the control group. Treatment with 300 or 600 mg NCEO/kg significantly increased the blood serum total protein and albumin compared to the control group. Meanwhile, the liver enzymes (AST and ALT), uric acid, and creatinine concentrations decreased significantly in the NCEO300 group compared to the control group. The concentrations of triglycerides and total cholesterol were reduced significantly by the dietary treatment. The total antioxidant capacity, dismutase activity, and glutathione concentration were significantly higher, while the malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl levels were significantly lower in the NCEO300 group than in the control. The inflammatory responses and immunity statuses were improved in the blood serum of the NCEO-treated rabbits compared to the control. Heat-stress-induced pathological perturbations in renal/hepatic tissues and NCEO co-treatment successfully re-established and recovered near-control renal-hepatic morphology. In conclusion, a dietary supplementation of NCEO (300 mg/kg) could effectively enhance growing rabbits' growth indices, feed efficiency, redox balance, immunity, and inflammatory responses during the summer.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Natural Feed Additives for Meat Chickens

Broiler chickens are increasingly kept in large numbers in intensive housing conditions that are stressful, potentially depleting the immune system. With the prohibition of the use of antibiotics in poultry feed spreading worldwide, it is necessary to consider the role of natural feed additives and antibiotic alternatives to stimulate the chickens' immune systems. We review the literature to describe phytogenic feed additives that have immunomodulatory benefits in broilers. We initially review the major active ingredients from plants, particularly flavonoids, resveratrol and humic acid, and then describe the major herbs, spices, and other plants and their byproducts that have immunomodulatory effects. The research reviewed demonstrates the effectiveness of many natural feed additives in improving the avian immune system and therefore broiler health. However, some, and perhaps all, additives have the potential to reduce immunocompetence if given in excessive amounts. Sometimes additives are more effective when given in combination. There is an urgent need to determine tolerance levels and optimum doses for additives deemed most suitable to replace antibiotics in the diet of broiler chickens. Effective replacement is most likely with readily available additives, such as olive oil byproducts, olive leaves and alfalfa. It is concluded that effective replacement of antibiotic function with plant-derived additives will be possible, but that further research is necessary to determine optimum doses.

Struggling Thermal Stress Impacts on Growth Performance and Health Status of Newly Weaned Rabbits Using Nanoemulsion of Origanum majorana Considering the Economic Efficiency of Supplementation

With the recent trend of global warming, HS-instigated diminishing could extremely jeopardize animal health, productivity, and farm profit. Marjoram essential oil (MEOE) is a worthy source of wide range phytogenic compounds that may improve heat tolerance, redox and inflammatory homeostasis, and immunity of newly weaned rabbits, specifically if included in the diets in a nano form. One hundred newly weaned rabbits were randomly distributed into four homogeneous groups. The first group (control group) included rabbits that received basal diet without supplementation. In contrast, the other three groups included rabbits that received basal diets supplemented with 200 (MEONE200), 400 (MEONE400), and 800 (MEONE800) mg MEONE/kg diet, respectively. Among MEONE-treated groups and control groups, MEONE400 group showed the highest (p < 0.001) growth performance traits, including final body weight, average daily gain, feed efficiency, and the performance index. Compared to the control, all MEONE-supplemented groups possessed lower rectal temperatures and respiration rates, recording the lowest values in the MEONE400 group. The oxidative stress biomarkers and immunoglobulins G and M were significantly improved in the MEONE400 and MEONE800 compared with the control and MEONE200 groups. The addition of MEONE (400 or 800 mg/kg) decreased the concentrations of serum interleukin-4 (p = 0.0003), interferon gamma (p = 0.0004), and tumor necrosis factor-α (p < 0.0001) but significantly elevated (p < 0.001) the activity of nitric oxide, amyloid A and lysozyme. Liver functions (lower concentrations of liver enzymes) were significantly improved in all MEONE-treated groups compared to the control group. There was a considerable significant effect of dietary supplementation of MEONE400 on economic efficiency. In conclusion, the addition of 400 mg/kg to the diets of newly weaned rabbits can be recommended as an affective intervention to mitigate the negative impacts of HS.

Herbal supplements suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines, boost humoral immunity, and modulate adipokines to enhance the productivity traits of rabbit bucks in hot climatic conditions

Thermal stress is the main stressor accounting for reduced productivity, compromised immunity, and collapse of thermoregulatory measures in rabbits in the tropics. The current climate change depicts worsening assault of heat stress in the time ahead; hence, the need to develop combative measures for animal productivity. This research investigates the influence of herbal supplements of three tropical herbs Viscum album (mistletoe), Moringa oleifera (Moringa), and Phyllanthus amarus (Phyllanthus) on immune response, oxidative status, adipokines, and growth of eighty weaned rabbits during heat stress in tropical climate. The bucks were fed with four standard diets; a control and others supplemented with each of Moringa, Phyllanthus, and mistletoe for an eight-week feed trial. Performance indicators were monitored and blood were sampled and assayed for hematology, pro-inflammatory cytokines, adipokines, and oxidative status. The result shows that the performance of bucks fed with Phyllanthus and mistletoe supplements was superior to other groups. The neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in the bucks fed with Moringa supplement, with significantly (p < 0.05) highest values obtained in the control group. Total antioxidant activity of the bucks fed with supplements was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those on control, with the significantly (p < 0.05) highest value recorded in bucks fed with Phyllanthus. Serum lipid peroxidation of the bucks on control was significantly (p < 0.05) highest and significantly (p < 0.05) least value was obtained in bucks on mistletoe. Heat shock protein 70, adiponectin, and leptin of the bucks on control were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than bucks on herbal supplements. Interleukin 6, interleukin β, and tumor necrosis factor α of bucks on control were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than bucks fed on herbal supplements. In conclusion, the inclusion of herbal supplements Moringa, Phyllanthus, or mistletoe suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines, boost humoral immunity, enhance the anti-oxidative status, and promote the growth of rabbit bucks during thermal discomfort.

Modulation of Immunity, Antioxidant Status, Performance, Blood Hematology, and Intestinal Histomorphometry in Response to Dietary Inclusion of Origanum majorana in Domestic Pigeons’ Diet

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of adding Origanum majorana (OM) powder to domestic pigeon diets on growth performance, feeding and drinking behaviour, blood hematology, blood biochemical parameters, blood inflammatory and oxidative markers, carcass characteristics, the weights of lymphoid organs, and and intestinal cecal, and bursa of Fabricius histology. A random distribution of fifty-four unsexed pigeon squabs (30 days old, average body weight; 321 g ± 7.5) into three groups was done. The first group was fed the grower basal diet without adding OM powder, while OM powder was added at levels of 0.5 and 1% to the basal diets of the second and third groups, respectively. The changes in growth performance parameters and feeding and drinking behavior under OM powder’s effect were insignificant. However, the lymphoid organs (spleen and thymus) significantly increased in weight (p < 0.05) in the OM-fed groups. Moreover, blood examination showed positive responses to OM powder in terms of blood cell counts (RBCs andWBCs), and the values of hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, lymphocyte numbers, levels of globulin, and glutathione peroxidase enzyme were significantly increased. The numbers of heterophils, the ratio of heterophil to lymphocyte, malondialdehyde levels were reduced (p < 0.05). Histomorphometry examination revealed increases in intestinal villi height, cecal thickness, and bursal follicle area and number. These results indicated that adding OM powder to the pigeon diet may improve their immunity, increase their antioxidant status, and correct some hematological disorders.

Quercetin Application for Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio): I. Effects on Growth Performance, Humoral Immunity, Antioxidant Status, Immune-Related Genes, and Resistance against Heat Stress

This study was done to evaluate the effect of different quercetin levels on growth performance, immune responses, antioxidant status, serum biochemical factors, and high-temperature stress responses in common carp (Cyprinus carpio). A total number of 216 common carp with an average weight of 27.21 ± 53 g were divided into 12 tanks (four treatments × three replications) and fed 0 mg/kg quercetin (T0), 200 mg/kg quercetin (T1), 400 mg/kg quercetin (T2), and 600 mg/kg quercetin (T3) for 60 days. There were significant differences in growth performance, and the highest final body weight (FBW), weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), and feed intake (FI) were observed in T2 and T3 (P < 0.05). Different quercetin levels significantly increased complement pathway activity (ACH50) and lysozyme activity both before and after heat stress (P < 0.05). Catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly increased in fish exposed to heat stress, but fish fed with a supplemented diet with quercetin showed the lowest levels both before and after heat stress (P < 0.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were significantly enhanced in fish fed diets supplemented with quercetin in both phases (P < 0.05). Different quercetin levels led to a significant decrease in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) before and after the challenging test (P < 0.05). Glucose and cortisol levels were significantly higher in the control group compared to the other treatments in both phases (P < 0.05). The expression of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and lysozyme was markedly upregulated in fish fed with quercetin-supplemented diets (P < 0.05). No marked effects were observed for growth hormone (GR) and interleukin-8 (IL8) (P > 0.05). In conclusion, dietary quercetin supplementations (400-600 mg/kg quercetin) improved growth performance, immunity, and antioxidant status and increased tolerance to heat stress.

Effect of phytogenic supplements on the reproductive physiology and metabolic hormones of rabbits exposed to heat stress conditions

This study investigated the role of phytogenic supplements on the reproductive physiology and metabolic hormones of rabbits exposed to heat stress conditions. Fresh Moringa oleifera, Phyllanthus amarus and Viscum album leaves were obtained and processed into a leaf meal using standard procedure and served as a phytogenic supplements. Eighty rabbit bucks of 6 weeks old (514.84 ± 14.10 g) were randomly assigned to the four dietary groups consisting of Diet 1 without the leaf meal (control diet) and Diets 2 (D2); 3 (D3) and 4 (D4) contained 10% Moringa, 10% Phyllanthus and 10% Mistletoe, respectively, in an 84-day feed trial at the peak of thermal discomfort. Semen kinetics and seminal oxidative status, reproductive and metabolic hormones were assessed using standard procedure. Results reveal that sperm concentration and motility traits of bucks on D2, D3 and D4 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than bucks on D1. Spermatozoa speed traits of bucks on D4 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than bucks on other treatments. Seminal lipid peroxidation of bucks in D2-D4 was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than bucks on D1. Corticosterone of bucks on D1 was significantly higher than bucks on other treatments (D2-D4). Lutenizing hormone of bucks on D2 and testosterone of bucks on D3 was higher (p < 0.05) than in other groups, while follicle stimulating hormone of bucks on D2 and D3 were higher (p < 0.05) than bucks on D1 and D4. In conclusion, the three phytogenic supplements improved sex hormones, enhanced spermatozoa kinetics, viability and seminal oxidative stability of bucks during heat stress condition.

Effects of dietary chlorogenic acid on ileal intestinal morphology, barrier function, immune factors and gut microbiota of broilers under high stocking density stress

Aims: The purpose of this research was to assess the effect of chlorogenic acid (CGA) in the diet on ileac structure, barrier function, immunological state, and microbial profile of broiler chickens in a high stocking density (HD) environment. Methods: Four hundred and seventy-six male AA broiler chickens were randomly split into four groups, two with a normal stocking density (ND) of fourteen birds per m² and two with a high stocking density of twenty-two birds per m². Each of the treatments consisted of five replicates. One of the two ND and HD groups received the usual feed, while the other two were given at 1.5 g/kg CGA as part of their dietary regimen. Results: The ND CGA group showed a greater increase in villus height and villus height/crypt depth compared to the ND group at 35 and 42 days. The HD group experienced a greater elevation in villus height due to CGA supplementation than the HD group across days 28, 35, and 42. At day 42, the HD group saw a decline in OCLN and ZO-1 mRNA expression in the ileum, but CGA was able to restore them. The HD group experienced a greater rise in OCLN mRNA than the control HD group when supplemented with CGA. The expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the ileum was higher in the HD group, and CGA supplementation enhanced this effect. The HD group experienced a greater rise in IL-10 mRNA expression than the control group following the administration of CGA. The HD group showed reduced alpha diversity and an increase in detrimental microbes such as Turicibacter and Shigella in the gut compared to the ND group, while the HD CGA group saw a reduction in Turicibacter, Shigella, and other harmful microbes. These findings reveal that HD stress suppressed the growth of ileac villi, decreased the expression of tight-junction genes, amplified the expression of inflammatory genes, and disturbed the gut microbiota, ultimately leading to increased intestinal permeability. Conclusion: We conclude that when chickens are given dietary CGA, the disruption of the ileac barrier and increased oxidative damage and inflammation due to HD stress are reduced, which increases ileac integrity and the presence of beneficial intestinal bacteria.

Dietary supplementation with chia polyphenols alleviates oxidative stress and improves egg nutritional quality in Japanese quails under heat stress

Heat stress in poultry is a major concern, especially in regions with hot summers and scarce cooling infrastructure. Dietary supplementation with antioxidants, such as polyphenols, has risen as a strategy to mitigate the physiological consequences of heat stress. A by-product of the extraction of oil from chia seeds, which is discarded if not used, could be a possible source of polyphenols. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with polyphenols from defatted chia seed cake on the general performance, and oxidative status of Japanese quail exposed to heat stress. Furthermore, productive performance, egg quality and yolk fatty acid composition were also assessed. A total of 36 females (96 days of age) were randomly assigned to different diets: BASAL (control), LDCP (low dose of chia polyphenols), or HDCP (high dose of chia polyphenols). Half the animals in each diet group were exposed to 34 °C for 9 h a day (Heat Stress; HS), while the other half remained at the standard 24 °C (No Heat Stress; NHS). After 23 days of experimental conditions, animals under HS showed higher body temperatures and time spent panting, but lower egg laying rate. Moreover, HS modulated the activity of catalase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes, increasing lipid peroxidation in serum and liver; and increased saturated fatty acids in egg yolk. Supplementation with chia polyphenols helped to mitigate the HS effects, especially on glutathione peroxidase activity, decreasing lipid peroxidation. In addition, supplementation with HDCP showed the highest proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids in liver and egg yolk. In conclusion, the use of defatted chia seed cake could represent a sustainable strategy to mitigate heat stress effects on Japanese quail, due to its capacity to decrease oxidative stress and improve the nutritional quality of egg, while decreasing the amount of waste generated by the food industry.

Ginger as a Natural Feed Supplement in Poultry Diets

Poultry ventures have progressed quickly over the last three decades. Therefore, curative or growth-promoting antibacterial agents have been utilized extensively. Because of increasing bacterial resistance towards antibiotics and, consequently, accumulation of antibacterial residues in chicken products and increased consumer’s demand for products without antibacterial residues, alternative solutions that could substitute antibiotics without affecting productivity or product quality should be attempted. Recently, natural replacements such as ginger, etheric oils, organic acids, garlic prebiotics, immune stimulants and plant extracts were used to improve productiveness, and body performance, prevent pathogenic microorganisms, and reduce antibacterial activity usage in poultry manufacturing. The utilization of a single alternative or a combination of variable replacements and perfect surveillance and flock health might improve the profits and sustain the productivity of poultry. This chapter aimed at summarizing the recent knowledge and information regarding the utilization of ginger and its derivatives as natural alternatives or supplements in poultry feed and their impacts on poultry productivity, meat and egg traits in addition to economic efficacy.

Effects of Compound Polysaccharides Derived from Astragalus and Glycyrrhiza on Growth Performance, Meat Quality and Antioxidant Function of Broilers Based on Serum Metabolomics and Cecal Microbiota

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of compound polysaccharides derived from Astragalus and Glycyrrhiza on growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant function, cecal microbiota and serum metabolomics of broilers. A total of 480 one-day-old male Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were randomly divided into four treatments with six replicates comprising 20 broilers each. Treatments: CON group was the basal diet; ANT group was supplemented with Terramycin calcium; LAG group was supplemented with 150 mg/kg Astragalus polysaccharides and 75 mg/kg Glycyrrhiza polysaccharides; HAG group was supplemented with 300 mg/kg Astragalus polysaccharides and 150 mg/kg Glycyrrhiza polysaccharides. The results showed that LAG and HAG supplementation increased growth performance, antioxidant function and meat quality compared with the CON group and ANT group and, especially, the effect of LAG treatment was better than HAG. Analysis of cecal microbiota showed that LAG and HAG supplementation altered cecal microbial diversity and composition in broilers. Serum metabolomics analysis showed that a total of 193 differential metabolites were identified in CON and LAG groups, which were mainly enriched in linoleic acid metabolism and glutathione metabolism pathways. Moreover, there was a close correlation between serum metabolites, cecal microbiota and phenotypic indicators. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation of 150 mg/kg Astragalus polysaccharides and 75 mg/kg Glycyrrhiza polysaccharides could improve the growth performance, antioxidant function and meat quality of broilers by changing the serum metabolites and cecal microbiota composition.

Performance, hemato-biochemical indices and oxidative stress markers of broiler chicken fed phytogenic during heat stress condition

Thermal stress is a tremendous health predicament encountered by poultry farmers with adverse effects on the performance, product stature, health condition, survival, and overall welfare of poultry birds, and so requires urgent dietary user-friendly strategy to curb. This study was conducted with 200-day old broilers for the purpose of investigating the potential of phytogenics in refining the negative effects of heat stress on broiler chicken. Moringa, Phyllanthus and mistletoe leaves were processed as phytogenic supplements and incorporated into standard ration for broilers as treatments B1 (control), B2, B3 and B4 diet during the peak of thermal discomfort in humid tropics. Growth and carcass indices were monitored in a 49-day trial and blood samples were harvested at the end of the ordeal period to assess haematology, serum biochemical and oxidative stress markers with the use of standard procedures. The results obtained showed that the prevailing environmental condition in the study site indicated that the birds were exposed to heat stress. Birds fed on moringa and mistletoe supplements had higher performance index than birds without supplementation during heat stress condition, while birds fed on mistletoe supplement had the highest survival rate across the treatments. The liveweight, slaughter weight, dressed weight and eviscerated weight of heat stressed birds fed on moringa, phyllanthus and mistletoe supplements were significantly higher than birds on control treatment. Heterophyl/lymphocyte ratio of heat stressed birds without supplement were higher than birds on phytogenic supplements, with least values recorded in phyllanthus and mistletoe fed birds. Birds on phytogenic supplement tend to have lower cholesterol profile, lipid peroxidation and better antioxidant profile than birds on control treatment during heat stress conditions. Mistletoe supplementation in broiler ration enhances the survival rate, as well as promotes growth indices better among the phytogenic supplements. However, phytogenic supplements did ameliorate the negative effects of thermal discomfort on performance, physiological and oxidative stress in heat-stressed broiler chicken.

Functional roles of taurine, L-theanine, L-citrulline, and betaine during heat stress in poultry

Heat stress (HS) is an important environmental stress factor affecting poultry production on a global scale. With the rise in ambient temperature and increasing effects of global warming, it becomes pertinent to understand the effects of HS on poultry production and the strategies that can be adopted to mitigate its detrimental impacts on the performance, health, welfare, immunity, and survival of birds. Amino acids (AAs) have been increasingly adopted as nutritional modifiers in animals to ameliorate the adverse effects of HS. They are essential for protein synthesis, growth, maintenance, reproduction, immunity, stress response, and whole-body homeostasis. However, HS tends to adversely affect the availability, transport, absorption, and utilization of these AAs. Studies have investigated the provision of these AAs to poultry during HS conditions, and variable findings have been reported. Taurine, L-theanine, and L-citrulline are non-essential amino acids that are increasingly gaining attention as nutritional supplements in HS animals. Similarly, betaine is an amino acid derivative that possesses favorable biological properties which contributes to its role as a functional additive during HS. Of particular note, taurine is negligible in plants, while betaine, L-theanine, and L-citrulline can be found in selected plants. These nutrients are barely found in feed ingredients, but their supply has been shown to elicit important physiological roles including anti-stress effects, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, gut promoting, and immunomodulatory functions. The present review provides information on the use of these nutritionally and physiologically beneficial nutrients as functional additives to poultry diets during HS conditions. Presently, although several studies have reported on the positive effects of these additives in human and murine studies, however, there is limited information regarding their utilization during heat stress in poultry nutrition. Therefore, this review aims to expound on the functional properties of these nutrients, their potentials for HS alleviation, and to stimulate further researches on their biological roles in poultry nutrition.

Morphological and molecular characterization of Ascaridia columbae in the domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) and the assessment of its immunological responses

Parasitism is a divesting problem that is frequently overlooked and may result in severe prominent clinical manifestation. This study aimed to investigate the seasonal and sexual prevalence of the gastrointestinal nematode Ascaridia columbae (A. columbae) infection among domestic pigeons in Giza governorate, Egypt, during the period from 2020 to 2021. One hundred and sixty suspected pigeons were clinically investigated. Blood & tissue samples were collected from infected birds to estimate serum zinc concentration, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide levels. As well as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL1β) activity, and histopathological examination were estimated; also, worms were collected for morphological identification using electron microscope (SEM) and molecularly identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), further sequenced, and submitted in GenBank with accession number MZ343369. The average ascarid (length × breadth) were 72.4 ± 3.3 µm (70.5 - 79.9 µm) × 39.9 ± 2.5 µm (37.6 - 42.3 µm). The distinguishing morphological characteristics that have been noticed in ascarid worms were creamy white, cylindrical worm with triradiate lips with wide cephalic alae extending on both the lateral sides and filariform esophagus. In males, spicules were almost equal with the presence of precloacal chitinous-rimmed sucker. The prevalence of A. columbae infection was (63.1%) with a higher incidence in females (79.2%) than males (46.1%). The highest seasonal prevalence was observed in winter (92.5%), followed by summer and spring (87.5% and 55%), respectively while, the lowest prevalence was observed in autumn (17.5%). The intensity of worms in the infected intestine varied from 5 to 120 adult worms. The histopathological examination revealed the presence of chronic diffuse moderate catarrhal enteritis with roundworms in the lumen. Infected birds showed a significant increase in nitric oxide and MDA levels while serum zinc levels were lowered in infected pigeons. Infected pigeons revealed a marked increase in IL1-β and TNFα than apparently healthy ones.

Necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens: disease characteristics and prevention using organic antibiotic alternatives – a comprehensive review

In line with the substantial increase in the broiler industry worldwide, Clostridium perfringens-induced necrotic enteritis (NE) became a continuous challenge leading to high economic losses, especially after banning antimicrobial growth promoters in feeds by many countries. The disease is distributed worldwide in either clinical or subclinical form, causing a reduction in body weight or body weight gain and the feed conversion ratio, impairing the European Broiler Index or European Production Efficiency Factor. There are several predisposing factors in the development of NE. Clinical signs varied from inapparent signs in case of subclinical infection (clostridiosis) to obvious enteric signs (morbidity), followed by an increase in mortality level (clostridiosis or clinical infection). Clinical and laboratory diagnoses are based on case history, clinical signs, gross and histopathological lesions, pathogenic agent identification, serological testing, and molecular identification. Drinking water treatment is the most common route for the administration of several antibiotics, such as penicillin, bacitracin, and lincomycin. Strict hygienic management practices in the farm, careful selection of feed ingredients for ration formulation, and use of alternative antibiotic feed additives are all important in maintaining broiler efficiency and help increase the profitability of broiler production. The current review highlights NE caused by C. perfringens and explains the advances in the understanding of C. perfringens virulence factors involved in the pathogenesis of NE with special emphasis on the use of available antibiotic alternatives such as herbal extracts and essential oils as well as vaccines for the control and prevention of NE in broiler chickens.

Dietary strategies to alleviate high-stocking-density-induced stress in broiler chickens – a comprehensive review

Stocking broilers at a high density has been a strategy to optimize the area of the cage and hence increase the efficiency of broiler production. If the environmental (microclimate) conditions and rearing management are not properly managed, stocking broilers at a high density may, however, result in stressful conditions that are harmful for the production, health and welfare of broilers. To ameliorate these unfavorable effects of overcrowding stress, dietary interventions have been conducted. Probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, plant-derived products, vitamins, propolis, amino acids, fatty acids, etc. have been supplemented in diets to deal with the harmful impact of stress induced by a high stocking density of broilers. This review covers the detrimental effects of overcrowding-induced stress on broiler development and attempts to ameliorate those negative effects by dietary interventions.

Beneficial Effects of Laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) and Myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) Extract on Rat Health

Polyphenols of Laurel and Myrtle exhibit structural diversity, which affects bioavailability, metabolism, and bioactivity. The gut microbiota plays a key role in modulating the production, bioavailability and, thus the biological activities of phenolic metabolites, particularly after the intake of food containing high-molecular-weight polyphenols. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the polyphenolic components of Laurel and Myrtle aqueous extract have beneficial effects on rat health. The growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), β-glucuronidase, β-glucosidase, β-galactosidase activity, pH value, body weight change and food efficacy ratio after intragastric treatment of rats with Laurel and Myrtle extract at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg for two weeks were investigated. The endogenous populations of colonic probiotic bacteria (Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria) were counted on selective media. According to the obtained data, Laurel extract in the applied dose of 50 and 100 and Myrtle extract (100 mg/kg) positively affects the rats health by increasing the number of colonies of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria compared to the control group, causes changes in glycolytic enzymatic activity and minor change in antioxidative tissue activity. In addition, high doses of Laurel increase food efficiency ratio, while Myrtle has the same effect at a lower dose.

Dietary Lasia spinosa Thw. Improves Growth Performance in Broilers

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary Lasia spinosa Thw. (LST) powder supplementation on growth performance, blood metabolites, antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, and cecal microbiome in broiler chickens. A total of 400 1-day-old male Guangxi partridge broilers (initial body weight: 42.52 ± 0.06 g) were randomly allotted to 4 dietary treatments: LST0 group (a basal diet), LST1 group (a basal diet with 1% LST powder), LST2 group (a basal diet with 2% LST powder), LST4 group (a basal diet with 4% LST powder), 10 replicates for each treatment, and 10 broilers in each treatment group. Results indicated that the average daily feed intake of broilers during 22-42 days and the average daily gain of chickens during 1-42 days significantly increased by dietary supplementation of LST powder (p < 0.01), while the feed conversion ratio during the overall periods was decreased by dietary supplementation of LST powder (p < 0.01). Except for the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in liver (p > 0.05), the levels of SOD, catalase (CAT) and GSH-Px in serum, liver, and breast muscle were significantly increased in the LST supplemented groups (p < 0.05), while the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum, liver, and breast muscle were significantly decreased in the LST supplemented groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were significantly decreased by the addition of dietary LST powder (p < 0.01), while the levels of HDL-C, Ca, Fe, Mg, and P were linearly increased by the addition of dietary LST powder (p < 0.01). With respect to the gut morphometric, crypt depth was significantly decreased by LST supplementation (p < 0.05), while villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth were notably increased by LST supplementation (p < 0.05). Sequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) from the cecal contents of broilers revealed that the composition of the chicken gut microbiota was altered by LST supplementation. The α-diversity of microbiota in broilers was increased (p < 0.05) in the LST1 group, but was decreased (p < 0.05) in the LST2 and LST4 groups compared with the LST0 group. The differential genera enriched in the LST1 group, such as Bacillus, Odoribacter, Sutterella, Anaerofilum, Peptococcus, were closely related to the increased growth performance, antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, Ca, Mg, and reduced blood lipid in the treated broilers.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of phytonutrients as antibiotic substitutes in poultry feed

Globally, there is increasing demand for safe poultry food products free from antibiotic residues. There is thus a need to develop alternatives to antibiotics with safe nutritional feed derivatives that maximize performance, promote the intestinal immune status, enrich beneficial microbiota, promote health, and reduce the adverse effects of pathogenic infectious microorganisms. With the move away from including antibiotics in poultry diets, botanicals are among the most important alternatives to antibiotics. Some botanicals such as fennel, garlic, oregano, mint, and rosemary have been reported to increase the poultry's growth rate and/or feed to gain ratio. Botanicals' role is assumed to be mediated by improved immune responses and/or shifts in the microbial population in the intestine, with the elimination of pathogenic species. In addition, modulation of the gut microbiota resulted in various physiological and immunological responses and promoted beneficial bacterial strains that led to a healthy gut. There is thus a need to understand the relationship between poultry diets supplemented with botanicals and good health of the entire gastrointestinal tract if we intend to use these natural products to promote general health status and production. This current review provides an overview of current knowledge about certain botanicals that improve poultry productivity by modulating intestinal health and reducing the negative impacts of numerous pathogenic bacteria. This review also describes the efficacy, negative effects, and modes of action of some common herbal plants applied in poultry as alternatives to reduce the use of antibiotics.

Environmental Stress in Chickens and the Potential Effectiveness of Dietary Vitamin Supplementation

Environmental stressors can promote the vulnerability of animals to infections; it is therefore, essential to understand how stressors affect the immune system, the adaptive capacity of animals to respond, and effective techniques in managing stress. This review highlights scientific evidence regarding environmental stress challenge models and the potential effectiveness of vitamin supplementation. The major environmental stressors discussed are heat and cold stress, feed restriction, stocking density, and pollutants. Much work has been done to identify the effects of environmental stress in broilers and layers, while few involved other types of poultry. Studies indicated that chickens' performance, health, and welfare are compromised when challenged with environmental stress. These stressors result in physiological alterations, behavioral changes, decreased egg and meat quality, tissue and intestinal damage, and high mortalities. The application of vitamins with other nutritional approaches can help in combating these environmental stressors in chickens. Poultry birds do not synthesize sufficient vitamins during stressful periods. It is therefore suggested that chicken diets are supplemented with vitamins when subjected to environmental stress. Combination of vitamins are considered more efficient than the use of individual vitamins in alleviating environmental stress in chickens.

The Effect of Adding Herbal Extracts to Drinking Water on Body Temperature, Level of Thyroid Hormones and H:L Ratio in the Blood of Broiler Chickens Exposed to Elevated Ambient Temperature

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of supplementing drinking water with extracts from lemon balm, sage and nettle on body temperature, level of thyroid hormones and the heterophil to lymphocyte (H:L) ratio in the blood of broiler chickens exposed to elevated rearing temperature. One-day-old Ross 308 chicks were divided into four groups: group I (CON) and experimental groups II (LB), II (S) and IV (N), in which, from 22 to 42 days of rearing, drinkers were supplemented with lemon balm extract, sage extract or nettle extract (2 ml/l water), respectively. In addition, at 5 weeks of growth, all the groups were exposed to elevated ambient temperature (up to 30°C) for 5 days, after which the recommended thermal conditions were reinstated. During the study, mortality, rectal temperature and radiated temperature of the broilers were monitored. Blood was collected from 10 birds per group to determine the concentration of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and to make blood smears. The H:L ratio was determined based on the percentage of heterophils (H) and lymphocytes (L). The herbal extracts from lemon balm, sage and nettle, added to drinking water at 2 ml/l, reduced the blood level of the thyroid hormone (triiodothyronine) and rectal temperature in the experimental broilers during the initial period of thermal stress. Chickens receiving the nettle extract were also characterised by lower radiated temperature of the unfeathered body, a lower H:L ratio in the blood during the increase in ambient temperature, and the lowest mortality percentage. It can therefore be considered that the dietary supplementation of nettle, in the form and concentration used in this study, had the most favourable effect on the physiological status of the birds (body temperature, level of thyroid hormones and H:L ratio) exposed to elevated ambient temperatures (30°C), and thus on their welfare.

Effects of phytogenic feed additives on the reproductive performance of animals

The reproductive performance of ruminants is economically significant, and its improvement is a primary goal of the livestock industry to ensure its sustainability. Several approaches have been developed to use phytogenics as feed additives for several proposes, such as reducing methane emissions, and as an alternative to antibiotics. Phytogenics have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and metabolism-regulatory properties, and they are present at high levels in animal feeds. This current review considers the potential use of medicinal herbs on the reproductive performance of animals. The influence of diet on the fertility complications commonly noted in ruminants is of global interest. Although the effects of phytogenics on ruminant digestion and absorption are well-explored, their impact on reproductive performance remains poorly investigated. This review focuses on the influence of phytogenics on semen quality, hormonal profiles, and hematobiochemical indices in male ruminants. Based on available data, phytogenics are perceived to improve oocyte quality, reproductive performance, and pregnancy. However, further more comprehensive research on the benefits and potential hazards of the use of phytogenics is required to improve reproductive performance in ruminants.

The use of some plant-derived products as effective alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters in organic poultry production: a review

Improving poultry production, increasing poultry immunity, and reducing the disease spreading can be achieved by adding various potentially valuable ingredients to the feed or drinking water of poultry flocks. Because of the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) in animal nutrition were prohibited. Additionally, consumer preferences tend towards purchasing products from livestock raised without antibiotics. Therefore, there is a critical need to find effective growth promoter alternatives and treatment methods for common poultry diseases. Some spice plants play important roles in improving the taste, aroma, and color of human food and their positive effects on human and animal health. The current review aimed to provide a broader perspective on some spice crops which can be effective alternatives to antibiotics in organic poultry production. These spices were including Thymus vulgaris, Cichorium intybus, Coriandrum sativum, Aloe vera, Heracleum persicum, Curcuma longa, and Glycyrrhiza glabra.

Honeybee and Plant Products as Natural Antimicrobials in Enhancement of Poultry Health and Production

The quality and safety attributes of poultry products have attracted increasing widespread attention and interest from scholarly groups and the general population. As natural and safe alternatives to synthetic and artificial chemical drugs (e.g., antibiotics), botanical products are recently being used in poultry farms more than 60% of the time for producing organic products. Medicinal plants, and honeybee products, are natural substances, and they were added to poultry diets in a small amount (between 1% and 3%) as a source of nutrition and to provide health benefits for poultry. In addition, they have several biological functions in the poultry body and may help to enhance their welfare. These supplements can increase the bodyweight of broilers and the egg production of laying hens by approximately 7% and 10% and enhance meat and egg quality by more than 25%. Moreover, they can improve rooster semen quality by an average of 20%. Previous research on the main biological activities performed by biotics has shown that most research only concentrated on the notion of using botanical products as growth promoters, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial agents. In the current review, the critical effects and functions of bee products and botanicals are explored as natural and safe alternative feed additives in poultry production, such as antioxidants, sexual-stimulants, immuno-stimulants, and for producing healthy products.

Dietary ascorbic acid and betaine improve stress responses, testosterone levels and some sexual traits in male Japanese quails during the dry season

The experiment investigated the effects of dietary ascorbic acid and betaine stress responses, serum testosterone levels, and some sexual traits in male Japanese quails during the dry season. A total of 240 male Japanese quails (14 days old) were used and randomly assigned to four groups, each group has three replicates (n = 20). Birds in treatment groups were fed ascorbic acid (AA); betaine (BET); and AA + BET in their diets, whereas the control birds were fed only basal diet. Environmental conditions were predominantly outside thermoneutral zone for Japanese quails. Dietary AA ± BET increased (p < .05) serum catalase, reduced glutathione and testosterone, but lowered (p < .05) cortisol levels when compared with control group. Supplemental AA, BET, or AA + BET enhanced (p < .05) cloacal gland size and sexual traits. In conclusion, dietary AA and BET improved stress responses, serum testosterone levels, and some sexual traits in male Japanese quails during the dry season.

Poultry Response to Heat Stress: Its Physiological, Metabolic, and Genetic Implications on Meat Production and Quality Including Strategies to Improve Broiler Production in a Warming World

The continuous increase in poultry production over the last decades to meet the high growing demand and provide food security has attracted much concern due to the recent negative impacts of the most challenging environmental stressor, heat stress (HS), on birds. The poultry industry has responded by adopting different environmental strategies such as the use of environmentally controlled sheds and modern ventilation systems. However, such strategies are not long-term solutions and it cost so much for farmers to practice. The detrimental effects of HS include the reduction in growth, deterioration of meat quality as it reduces water-holding capacity, pH and increases drip loss in meat consequently changing the normal color, taste and texture of chicken meat. HS causes poor meat quality by impairing protein synthesis and augmenting undesirable fat in meat. Studies previously conducted show that HS negatively affects the skeletal muscle growth and development by changing its effects on myogenic regulatory factors, insulin growth factor-1, and heat-shock proteins. The focus of this article is in 3-fold: (1) to identify the mechanism of heat stress that causes meat production and quality loss in chicken; (2) to discuss the physiological, metabolic and genetic changes triggered by HS causing setback to the world poultry industry; (3) to identify the research gaps to be addressed in future studies.

The functions of Patchouli and Elsholtzia in the repair of hen follicular granular cells after heat stress

The objective of this experimental study was to examine the effects of the Chinese herbal medicines Patchouli and Elsholtzia on the follicular granulosa cells of hens undergoing heat stress conditions. In the current investigation, hen follicular granulosa cells were isolated from the prehierarchical follicles of layer hens and then cultured in-vitro. The cells were randomly divided into the 6 groups. Following the completion of this study's experiments using different heat stress and medicinal treatments, the cell activities of each group were measured using an MTT method. The levels of the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were detected using ELISA. The expressions of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) mRNA; cytochrome P450 family 11, subfamily A, member 1 (CYP11A1) mRNA; proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) mRNA; and the follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) were detected using the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions. The concentration levels of estrogen and progesterone in the cell supernatant of each group were measured using ELISA. The results showed that cell activity had significantly decreased following the heat stress treatments at 43℃, 44℃, and 45℃ (P < 0.01), respectively. Meanwhile, cell activities observed in Patchouli and Elsholtzia were found to be much better than those of heat stress group (P < 0.05). In addition, the expression levels of HSP70 in the follicular granulosa cells of Patchouli and Elsholtzia groups were lower than those of heat stress group. Patchouli and Elsholtzia can maintain expressions of the receptor at 43℃. This study determined that the estrogen and progesterone in the supernatant fluid of Patchouli and Elsholtzia were higher than those observed in heat stress. Therefore, the results obtained in this study indicated that the Patchouli and Elsholtzia treatments administered prior the heat stress experiments had successfully protected the follicular granulosa cells from heat damages while maintaining the normal secretory functions of the granulosa cells.

Effect of consumption of I, Se, S and nanoaquacitrates on hematological and biochemical parameters of the organism of rabbits

Using nanotechnologies to obtain compounds of mineral substances is promising because of the importance of the amount of mineral substances, but the limiting factor is particularly their bioavailability in the digestive tract. The conducted studies determined the stimulating effect of nanoaquachelates of separate biogene microelements on the course of biochemical processes of the organisms of animals, their productivity and quality of the obtained products. However, the mechanisms of impact of carboxylates of separate elements and their combinations on functioning of physiological systems of various species of animals, level of transformation of these elements into the products and their biological value remain unstudied. Therefore, the objectives of the study were changes in hematological biochemical and productive parameters of the organisms of rabbits consuming I, Se, S, the impacts of these elements on their organism from the 53 to 85th days of life. Studies were performed on young Termonde rabbits. Animals of experimental groups I, II, III, and IV were fed with feeds of the diet of the control group for 24 h with water containing solution of І, Se, S calculated respectively as 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 µg of І/L of water. The experiment lasted 45 days, including a 12 day preparation period and 33 day experimental. On the 53rd day of life of animals in the preparation period, and 68th and 85th days of life in the experimental periods (15th and 33rd days of watering with supplements), we collected samples of blood from the marginal ear vein of 6 animals (3 males and 3 females) of the group for hematological and biochemical studies. We determined that watering with the solution of microelements І, Se, S led to changes in the overall amount of white blood cells, making it 17.1% lower in the blood of animals of the experimental group II, 26.2% higher in group ІІІ on the 15th day, and 12.0% higher in group IV on the 31st day of the experiment compared with the control. Absolute amounts of lymphocytes, monocytes and granulocytes by the periods of the study were observed to have no significant changes throughout the study, though their parameters were within the physiological values compared with the control. The amount of red blood cells in the blood of rabbits of experimental groups І, ІІ and ІІІ was higher respectively by 8.1%, 5.7% and 12.0% at the first stage of the study and 18.1%, 13.3%, 24.5% and 24.9% higher in animals of experimental groups І, ІІ; ІІІ and ІV at the final stage of the study compared with the control group. Hemoglobin concentration in blood of rabbits of experimental groups II and III during the study was significantly higher. Hematocrit value in blood of rabbits of experimental groups I–III was significantly higher on the 33rd day of the experiment compared with the control. Consumption of solution of microelements in the amount of 10.0 µg of I/L by the animals of experimental group III led to 15.1% higher content of total protein in the blood on the 33rd day of the study compared with the control group of animals. The level of creatinine was no higher than the physiological parameters and was 9.2%, 15.0% and 15.4% higher in the blood of rabbits of experimental groups II, III, IV on the 33rd day of the experiment compared with the control group. No significant changes in the content of triacylglycerols in the blood of rabbits of the experimental groups were seen throughout the study. However, the content of cholesterol in the blood of rabbits of experimental groups III and IV was significantly higher at the first stage compared with the control group. Further, it is practical to study physiologically substantiated amounts of solution of microelements І, Se, S in the diet of mother rabbits to determine their effect on their ability to become pregnant, reproductive function, milk production and survival of offspring.