Effects of dietary zinc and L-arginine supplementation on total antioxidants capacity, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, egg weight, and blood biochemical values in Japanese quails

Phase-specific outcmes of arginine or branched-chain amino acids supplementation in low crude protein diets on performance, nutrient digestibility, and expression of tissue protein synthesis and degradation in broiler chickens infected with mixed Eimeria spp

A 35-d study investigated the impact of dietary supplementation with Arginine (Arg) or branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) of broilers receiving low-protein diets whilst infected with mixed Eimeria species. All birds were given the same starter (d0-10) and finisher (d28-35) diets. The 4 grower diets used were a positive control (PC) with adequate protein (18.5%), a low protein diet (NC;16.5% CP), or the NC supplemented with Arg or BCAA. Supplemental AA was added at 50% above the recommended levels. The treatments were in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement, with 4 diets, with or without Eimeria inoculation on d14. Birds and feed were weighed after inoculation in phases: prepatent (d14-17), acute (d18-21), recovery (d22-28), and compensatory (d29-35). Ileal digesta, jejunum, and breast tissue were collected on d21, 28, and 35. There was no diet × Eimeria inoculation on growth performance at any phase. Infected birds weighed less and consumed less feed (P < 0.05) in all phases. In the prepatent and acute phases, birds on the Arg diets had higher weight gain (P < 0.05) and lower FCR, similar to PC, when compared to NC and BCAA-fed ones. Infection reduced AA digestibility on d21 and 28 (Met and Cys). However, birds that received supplemental AA had higher digestibility (P < 0.05) of their respective supplemented AA on d 21 only. Infected birds had lower (P < 0.05) BO + AT and higher PEPT1 expression on d21. There was a diet × Eimeria interaction (P = 0.004) on gene expression at d28; 4EBP1 genes were significantly downwardly expressed (P < 0.05) in birds fed Arg diet, irrespective of infection. Infected birds exhibited an upward expression (P < 0.05) of Eef2 on d21 and d28 but experienced a downward expression on d35. Supplemental Arg and BCAA had variable effects on growth performance, apparent ileal AA digestibility, and genes of protein synthesis and degradation, but the effect of Arg on promoting weight gain, irrespective of the Eimeria challenge, was more consistent.

Effect of arginine supplementation on the growth performance, intestinal health, and immune responses of broilers during necrotic enteritis challenge

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of 25% arginine supplementation as a functional amino acid in partially alleviating the detrimental effects of necrotic enteritis (NE) on the growth performance, serum biochemistry, gut integrity, and the relative gene expression of tight junction proteins and inflammatory cytokines in broilers during NE. Three hundred and sixty 1-day-old chicks were randomly allocated to 4 treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement -basal diet and 125% arginine diet, with or without NE challenge. NE was induced by inoculating 1 × 104Eimeria maxima sporulated oocysts on d 14 and 1 × 108 CFU/bird C. perfringens on d 19, 20, and 21. The NE challenge had a significant effect on the BWG (p < 0.05), FCR (p < 0.05), serum AST (p < 0.05), GLU (p < 0.05), and K+ (p < 0.05) levels, and intestinal permeability (p < 0.05) and jejunal lesion score (p < 0.05). A significant challenge × diet interaction effect was observed in the cecal tonsil CD8+: CD4+ T-cell ratio on d 21 (p < 0.05) and 28 (p < 0.05) and spleen CD8+: CD4+ T-cell ratio on d 21 (p < 0.05) and 35 (p < 0.05). Arginine supplementation significantly increased the CD8+: CD4+ T-cell ratio in uninfected birds but decreased the CD8+: CD4+ T-cell ratio in infected birds. On d 21, a significant interaction effect was observed on the relative expression of the iNOS gene (p < 0.05). Arginine supplementation significantly downregulated the expression of the iNOS gene in infected birds. A significant effect of the challenge (p < 0.05) was observed on the relative gene expression of the ZO-1 gene in the jejunum. NE challenge significantly downregulated the expression of the ZO-1 gene on d 21. In conclusion, arginine supplementation did not alleviate the depression in growth performance and disease severity during the NE challenge. However, arginine downregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, preventing inflammatory injury to the tissues during NE. Hence, arginine might be supplemented with other alternatives to downregulate inflammatory response during NE in poultry.

Effect of dietary electrolyte balance and arginine to lysine ratio on hematological, antioxidant and immunological traits in dual-purpose breeding hens under cyclic heat stress condition

A total of 245 hens and 35 cocks (32 weeks age) were assigned to seven treatment groups (five replicates with seven hens and one cock) to investigate the effect of dietary electrolyte balance (DEB) and arginine to lysine ratio (Arg/Lys) on birds' physiological and biochemical traits under cyclic heat stress (CHS) condition. Birds were housed in an environmentally controlled facility having four sectors. The first group (positive control, PC) was kept under thermoneutral conditions and fed diet with DEB of 180 mEq and Arg/Lys of 1.25, whereas the other six treatments were kept in the second sector under CHS and fed diet with DEB and Arg/Lys equal to: 180 mEq and 1.25 (negative control, NC); 250 mEq and 1.25; 320 mEq and 1.25; 180 mEq and 1.37; 250 mEq and 1.37; 320 mEq and 1.37, respectively. Hens on NC group had significantly decreased red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and its fractions. The groups fed different DEB and Arg/Lys in diet significantly enhanced the blood parameters and plasma lipid profile compared NC group. Hens under CHS fed on 250 and 320 DEB with 1.37 Arg/Lys recorded the lowest concentration of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) compared with the other groups. Triiodothyronine (T3) activity was not differed among groups, while T4 activity in layer exposed to CHS (NC group) recorded the highest activity compared to PC. From findings, it can be concluded that laying hens fed a diet having DEB 250 mEq with 1.37 Arg/Lys could be successfully applied to counteract the adverse effect of CHS and to improve blood hematological and biochemical traits, antioxidants, and immunity response.

The Dietary Supplementation of Copper and Zinc Nanoparticles Improves Health Condition of Young Dairy Calves by Reducing the Incidence of Diarrhoea and Boosting Immune Function and Antioxidant Activity

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of nano copper (nano Cu) and nano zinc (nano Zn) supplementation on the biomarkers of immunity and antioxidant and health status attributes in young dairy calves. Twenty-four young cattle calves were randomly assigned into four groups (6 calves per group) on a body weight and age basis for a period of 120 days. The feeding regimen was the same in all the groups except that these were supplemented with 0.0 mg nano Cu and nano Zn (control), 10 mg nano Cu (_nanoCu₁₀), 32 mg nano Zn (nanoZn₃₂), and a combination of nano Cu and nano Zn (_nanoCu₁₀ + _nanoZn₃₂) per kg dry matter (DM) basis in four respective groups. Supplementation of nano Cu along with nano Zn improves immune response which was evidenced from higher immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin A (IgA), total immunoglobulin (TIg), and Zn sulphate turbidity (ZST) units and lower plasma concentrations of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and cortisol in the nanoCu10 + nanoZn32 group. There was no effect of treatment on the plasma concentrations of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). Antioxidant status was also better in the nanoCu10 + nanoZn32 group as evidenced by lower concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and higher activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), ceruloplasmin (Cp), and total antioxidant status (TAS). However, treatment did not exert any effect on catalase (CAT) activity. Although the nano Cu or nano Zn supplementation, either alone or in combination, did not exert any effect on growth performance or body condition score (BCS), the frequency of diarrhoea and incidence of diarrhoea were lower, while faecal consistency score (FCS) and attitude score were better in the _nanoCu₁₀ + _nanoZn₃₂ groups. In the control group, one calf was found affected with joint illness and two calves were found affected with navel illness. During the experimental period, none of the calves in all four groups were found to be affected by pneumonia. The findings of this study revealed that dietary supplementation of nano Cu in combination with nano Zn improved the health status of young dairy calves by improving immunity and antioxidant status.

Functional properties of amino acids: improve health status and sustainability

The combination of increased genetic potential and changes in management strategies (i.e., antibiotic-free, no antibiotics ever, and every day feeding of replacement pullets) influences the nutritional needs of poultry. Traditionally, nutritionists have focused on meeting the amino acid needs for production performance and yield however, increasing specific amino acid concentrations can benefit gastrointestinal development and integrity, enhance immune response potential, influence behavior, and benefit sustainability. Commercialization of additional feed grade amino acids beyond methionine, lysine, and threonine, enables targeted increases to achieve these benefits. As such, this paper addresses the functional roles of amino acids in meeting poultry production, health, and sustainability goals.

A perspective review on the effect of different forms of zinc on poultry production of poultry with special reference to the hazardous effects of misuse

Zinc (Zn) is a unique micro-mineral because it is an essential component in many enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, carbonic anhydrase, and alkaline phosphatase, as well as being important for regulation of proteins and lipids metabolism, and sex hormones. This mineral is applied in poultry production in three forms; inorganic, organic, and nanoparticle form. The nano-form of Zn is preferable in application to other conventional forms with regard to absorption, bioavailability, and efficacy. Broilers fed on diets supplemented with Zn showed improvement of growth performance, carcass meat yield, and meat quality. In addition, Zn plays an important role in enhancing of both cellular and humeral immune responses, beside its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. In laying hens, dietary addition of Zn improves the eggshell quality and the quantity of eggs. Moreover, Zn has a vital role in breeders in terms of improving the egg production, fertility, hatchability, embryonic development, and availability of the hatched chicks. Therefore, this review article is focused on the effects of using Zn on the performance and immunity of poultry, as well as its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties with special reference to the hazardous effects of the misusing of this mineral.

Influences of L-Arginine In Ovo Feeding on the Hatchability, Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Meat Quality of Slow-Growing Chickens

Simple Summary

The nutrition and health status of the embryo in the hatching process directly influence the hatchability and chicken performance post-hatch in poultry production. The in ovo feeding (IOF) technique provides a viable way to improve the embryonic development and chicken performance post-hatch. Thus, the hypothesis of this study was that supplementing L-arginine (Arg) into embryos could positively affect the hatchability, growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and meat quality of slow-growing chickens. The results of this study demonstrate that IOF of Arg positively affected the antioxidant capacity of the breast muscle in the starter period, and there was no effect on the hatchability, growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality. Overall, our findings suggest that IOF of Arg may have beneficial effects on chicken health without compromising the hatchability, subsequent growth, and meat quality.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of in ovo feeding (IOF) of L-arginine (Arg) on the hatchability, growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and meat quality of slow-growing chickens. A total of 480 eggs were randomly divided into a non-injected control group (NC group) and a 1% Arg-injected group (Arg group). On day 18 of incubation, 0.5 mL of Arg solution was injected into the embryonic amnion in the Arg group. Upon hatching, 160 mixed-sex chickens were randomly assigned to two groups, with four replicates per group. This experiment lasted for 63 days. The results showed that the hatchability, growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality were not significantly different (p > 0.05) between the two groups. However, the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was lower (p < 0.05), and the glutathione (GSH) level was higher (p < 0.05) on day of hatching in the Arg group. The total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activity was increased (p < 0.05) on day 21 post-hatch in the Arg group compared to that in the NC group. In conclusion, IOF of Arg increased the antioxidant capacity of the breast muscle in the starter period, which may have a positive effect on health status of slow-growing chickens post-hatch.

The effect of the application of diets with varied proportions of arginine and lysine on biochemical and antioxidant status in turkeys

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of two proportions of arginine (95% and 105%) relative to lysine (Lys), where Lys content in the diet is in accordance with NRC (1994) recommendations or 10% higher, on the metabolism, antioxidant status, and growth performance of turkeys. The experiment had a 2x2 factorial design with two levels of Lys and Arg. The diets with a low level of Lys were according to the NRC (1994) requirements. In the diets with a high level of Lys, the content of Lys was increased by 10% relative to the low level Lys. The two Arg levels in the experimental diets were determined so as to provide 95% and 105% Arg relative to the content of dietary Lys. An increase in the amount of Lys in the diet of turkeys by 10% relative to NRC nutritional recommendations (1994) was not shown to improve growth performance, but had beneficial effects on the metabolism and antioxidant status of the birds, as evidenced by the improvement of hepatic indices (reduction of AST and ALT activity at 9th week of life) and renal indices (reduction of UREA at 9th week of life and reduction of TP and increase level of ALB levels at 16th week of life), as well as an increase in the level of glutathione with strong antioxidant properties at 16th week of life. In comparison to the lower level of Arg in the diet, an increase in the amount of this amino acid to 105% Lys did not improve growth performance, metabolism, or antioxidant status. An Arg level of 95% Lys can be used in a diet for turkeys containing 10% more Lys than the level recommended by the NRC (1994).

Selected metabolic, epigenetic, nitration and redox parameters in turkeys fed diets with different levels of arginine and methionine

The amino acid guidelines formulated by British United Turkeys postulate higher levels of lysine (Lys) in turkey diets than those recommended by the National Research Council. However, any modifications in the Lys content of turkey diets should be accompanied by changes in the inclusion rates of other amino acids, including methionine (Met) and arginine (Arg). The research hypothesis postulates that the appropriate inclusion levels and ratios of arginine and methionine in turkey diets with high lysine content can improve the antioxidant status of turkeys without compromising their metabolism. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of different Arg and Met ratios in Lys-rich diets on biochemical indicators, redox status and epigenetic changes in turkeys. The turkeys were assigned to six groups with eight replicates per group and 18 birds per replicate. Six feeding programs, with three dietary Arg levels (90%, 100% and 110%) and two dietary Met levels (30% and 45%) relative to dietary Lys content were compared. During each of the four feeding phases, birds were fed ad libitum isocaloric diets with high Lys content. Our results show, that in growing turkeys fed diets with high Lys content, the inclusion rate of Arg can be set at 90% of Lys content with no negative effects on their antioxidant status, metabolism or performance. Diets with high Arg content (110% Lys) are not recommended due to the risk of lipid and protein damage, and an undesirable increase in insulin and T4 levels. Regardless of dietary Arg levels, an increase in the Met inclusion rate from 30% to 45% of Lys content minimizes the oxidation of lipids, proteins and DNA, and increases the antioxidant defense potential of turkeys.

The effect of different dietary ratios of lysine, arginine and methionine on protein nitration and oxidation reactions in turkey tissues and DNA

An assumption was made in the study that the optimal inclusion levels and ratios of lysine (Lys), arginine (Arg) and methionine (Met) in diets with Lys content consistent with National Research Council (NRC) recommendations (1994) contribute to stimulate the antioxidant defense system and prevent disorders resulting from the oxidation and nitration of biologically important molecules. The experiment was carried out on 864 one-day-old Hybrid Converter turkeys divided into six experimental groups (8 replicates per group and 18 birds per replicate) receiving different levels of Arg and Met. Chickens from group Arg₉₀Met₃₀ received 90% Arg and 30% Met relative to Lys; Arg₉₀Met₄₅ - 90% Arg and 45% Met relative to Lys; Arg₁₀₀Met₃₀ - 100% Arg and 30% Met relative to Lys; Arg₁₀₀Met₄₅ - 100% Arg and 45% Met relative to Lys; Arg₁₁₀Met₃₀ - 110% Arg and 30% Met relative to Lys and Arg₁₁₀Met₄₅ - 110% Arg level and 45% Met level relative to the content of dietary Lys. In comparison with turkeys fed diets with moderate Arg content (100% of Lys content), a decrease in dietary Arg level (90% of Lys content) led to a decrease in plasma 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) concentration (163.6 vs. 141.0), whereas an increase in dietary Arg level (110% of Lys content) led to an increase in plasma 3-NT concentration (163.6 vs. 202.6). In comparison with turkeys fed diets with moderate Arg content (100% of Lys content), the lowest dietary Arg level (90% of Lys content) decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the intestinal wall (19.68 vs. 17.41) and in the liver (11.51 vs. 7.94), increased SOD activity in the blood (507.6 vs. 961.4) and in breast muscles (6.26 vs. 7.43) and increased the concentration of malondiadehyde in breast muscles (1.10 vs. 1.50). An increase in dietary Met content from 30 to 45% of Lys content caused a decrease in plasma protein carbonyl concentration (4.33 vs. 3.8) and catalase activity in breast muscles (54.70 vs. 49.66), and an increase in SOD activity in the liver (8.90 vs. 10.41). The highest dietary Arg level (110% of Lys content) did not induce the oxidation of lipids, proteins or DNA, but it increased the risk of protein nitration. The lowest dietary Arg level (90% of Lys content) deteriorated the antioxidant status of turkeys. Regardless of dietary Arg levels, an increase in Met content from 30 to 45% of Lys content stimulated the antioxidant defense system of turkeys.

Effect of dietary l-arginine of broiler breeder hens on embryonic development, apparent metabolism, and immunity of offspring

This study investigated the effects of supplemented l-arginine (l-Arg) in broiler breeder hens' diets on the embryonic development and physiological changes of offspring during the hatching period. A total of 480 35-wk-old healthy female Arbor Acres broiler breeders were randomly divided into 6 groups and fed a corn and soybean meal diet with 6 digestible Arg levels (0.96%, 1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%). After a 10-wk experiment, eggs were collected for incubation. At embryonic day (E) 11 to E21, eggs, embryos, and organs (liver, breast muscle, and thigh muscle) were weighed. Total protein, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, and triglyceride in plasma, were measured. Plasma level of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) were measured at E13, E17, and E21. Messenger RNA expression of carbamoyl phosphate synthase I (CPS1), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC), and argininosuccinate synthase (ASS) in liver and breast muscle tissues was assessed at E13, E17, and E21. The results showed that 1.16% Arg in maternal diet increased egg weight (P < 0.05). The level of Arg in maternal diet has a significant effect on organ index and embryo weight of multiple embryonic days (P < 0.05). Embryonic plasma total protein concentration was significantly affected by maternal dietary Arg level (P < 0.05) and exhibited quadratic responses at E11, E15, E17, and E21 (P < 0.01). Plasma urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglyceride, and cholesterol level were also significantly affected by the level of maternal Arg at different embryonic ages (P < 0.05). Dietary digestible Arg levels quadratically influenced plasma urea nitrogen level at E21 (P < 0.05) and cholesterol concentration at E17 and E19 (P < 0.01). L-Arg supplementation in maternal diet significantly improved the IgG level at E17 and E21 (1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, and 1.74%; P < 0.05), the IgM level at E13 (1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%) and E17 (P < 0.05) and the NOS level at E13, E17, and E21 (P < 0.05). Maternal dietary L-Arg supplementation significantly improved the expression of CPS1 gene, OTC gene (1.16%, 1.35%, and 1.55%), and ASS gene (1.35% and 1.55%) in the liver (P < 0.05), and also enhanced the CPS1 gene (except 1.35%) and OTC gene (1.55% and 1.74%) expression in the breast muscle (P < 0.05). In conclusion, maternal Arg level affected the embryonic development of offspring and regulated the apparent metabolic programming and immunity state of the embryo. Arginine level of 1.55% in hens' diet was beneficial to the protein synthesis and immunity of the offspring in the embryonic period, and it was recommended to obtain healthy offspring.

Secondary Functions of Arginine and Sulfur Amino Acids in Poultry Health: Review

Simple Summary

Historically, studies with amino acids have focused on protein synthesis and accretion, especially with eggs and meat, whereas less importance has been given to their secondary functions on the metabolism. However, certain amino acids, such as arginine, methionine, and cysteine are precursors for other essential molecules in the immune defense, antioxidant system, cell signaling, and gene expression, and can act as regulators in the growth and development of the animals. Because poultry are subjected to stressful conditions throughout their lives, the use of these amino acids and their secondary functions could beneficiate their general health. This review describes the metabolism of arginine, methionine, and cysteine and how they modulate different tissues, especially during challenging conditions. Arginine supplementation has been shown to modulate musculoskeletal health development, reduce fat accretion, and improve the antioxidant system. Moreover, methionine and cysteine could improve the bone development and have a potential in mitigating the negative effects caused by heat stress. Understanding how these amino acids can ameliorate stressful conditions may provide novel insights about their use as nutritional strategies to modulate the health status of chickens.

Abstract

Amino acids such as arginine, methionine, and cysteine are the precursors of essential molecules that regulate growth and health, being classified as functional amino acids. This review describes the metabolism of arginine and the sulfur amino acids and how they modulate, directly or indirectly, different tissues. Emphasis is placed on their effects in supporting health during challenging conditions, such as heat stress and Eimeria infection. The use of arginine has been shown to reduce abdominal fat pad in ducks and increase lean tissue and bone mineral density in broilers. Additionally, the sulfur amino acids have been shown to improve bone development and are beneficial during heat stress. The use of L-methionine increased the cortical and trabecular bone mineral densities, in laying hens. Moreover, the dietary inclusion of these amino acids could reduce the damage caused by Eimeria spp. infection by regulating the antioxidant system and cell repair. Understanding how these amino acids can mitigate stressful conditions may provide us novel insights of their use as nutritional strategies to modulate the health status of chickens.

Dietary L-arginine supplementation enhances growth performance, intestinal antioxidative capacity, immunity and modulates gut microbiota in yellow-feathered chickens

This study investigated the effects of dietary Arginine (Arg) on performance, intestinal antioxidative capacity, immunity, and gut microbiota in Chinese yellow-feathered chickens. One thousand two hundred 1-day-old female Qingyuan partridge chickens were randomly assigned to 5 groups with 6 replicates of 40 birds each. Chickens were fed diets with 5 levels of total Arg (8.5, 9.7, 10.9, 12.1, and 13.3 g/kg) without antibiotics for 30 d. The ADFI, ADG, and feed conversion ratio were improved with dietary Arg levels (P < 0.05). The proportions of CD3⁺ and CD4⁺/CD8⁺ lymphocytes responded in a linear (P < 0.05) manner and those of CD4⁺ in a linear or quadratic (P < 0.05) manner as dietary Arg levels increased. Dietary Arg level had a linear (P < 0.05) or quadratic (P < 0.05) effect on the gene expression of glutathione peroxidase 1, heme oxygenase 1, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and the activities of glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidative capacity in the jejunum and ileum. The relative expression of IL-1β, myeloid differentiation primary response 88, and Toll-like receptor 4 decreased linearly (P < 0.05) in the ileum with increasing dietary Arg levels; secretory IgA contents were increased. In addition, sequencing data of 16S rRNA indicated that dietary Arg increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes phylum, Romboutsia and Candidatus Arthromitus genera, while decreased that of Clostridium sensu stricto 1. A diet containing 12.1 g Arg/kg promoted growth performance, intestinal antioxidation, and innate immunity and modulated gut microbiota in yellow-feathered chickens.

Impact of dietary zinc oxide nanoparticles on selected serum biomarkers, lipid peroxidation and tissue gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and cytokines in Japanese quail

Background

The use of zinc oxide in the form of nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) is of great benefit due to its potent effectiveness and higher bioavailability compared to zinc oxide. This study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary inclusion of different doses of ZnO-NPs on selected serum biomarkers, lipid peroxidation and tissue gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and cytokines in Japanese quail. Eighty Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) (45 days old) were randomly divided into four groups (20 birds for each) with 4 replicates (5 birds each). Birds in the first group were fed a basal diet alone and served as a control (C). Birds in groups 2–4 were fed the basal diet supplemented with ZnO-NPs at doses of 15 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg and 60 mg/kg for a period of 60 days. At the end of the experiment, all birds were sacrificed to collect blood in a plain vacutainer, whereas liver and brain tissues were stored frozen at -80 °C. The obtained sera were used for the analysis of selected biochemical parameters, whereas tissue homogenates were used for the estimation of zinc, oxidative stress biomarkers and gene expression of selected antioxidant enzymes and cytokines.

Results

ZnO-NPs (30 and 60 mg/kg) induced a significant decrease in serum triacylglycerol (TAG) compared to the control. ZnO-NPs did not affect the activities of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total protein, albumin, globulin and tissue zinc concentrations but reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to the control. The liver retained a higher zinc concentration than that of brain tissue. In a dose-dependent manner, ZnO-NPs upregulated the mRNA levels of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase: SOD1; catalase: CAT; glutathione peroxidase-1: GPX 1) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (interferon α: IFN-α; interleukin 6: IL-6) in liver and brain tissues.

Conclusion

The current study suggests the inclusion of ZnO-NPs, particularly 60 mg/kg, in the diet of Japanese quails to improve antioxidant and immune status.

The effects of L-Arginine supplementation on growth performance and intestinal health of broiler chickens challenged with Eimeria spp

This study evaluated the effects of varying levels of L-arginine (Arg) on performance and intestinal health of broilers challenged with Eimeria. Cobb 500 male chicks (n = 720) were randomly distributed in a 5 × 2 factorial arrangement (6 replicates/12 birds). The main factors were Arg levels (1.04, 1.14, 1.24, 1.34, 1.44%) and challenge or non-challenge with Eimeria. At day 12, in the challenge group, each bird received orally 12,500 Eimeria maxima, 12,500 Eimeria tenella, and 62,500 Eimeria acervulina sporulated oocysts. At 5 d postinfection (dpi), intestinal permeability was measured. At 6 and 14 dpi, performance, intestinal histomorphology, nutrient digestibility, tight junction protein (TJP) gene expression, and antioxidant markers were evaluated. Few interactions were found, and when significant, the supplementation of Arg did not counteract the negative effects of Eimeria challenge. Challenge, regardless of Arg level, increased intestinal permeability, although the expression of Claudin-1, a TJP, was upregulated. At 6 dpi, the antioxidant system was impaired by the challenge. Moreover, growth performance, intestinal histomorphology, and nutrient digestibility were negatively affected by challenge at 6 and 14 dpi. Regardless of challenge, from 0 to 14 dpi, birds fed 1.44% showed higher weight gain than 1.04% of Arg, and birds fed 1.34% showed lower feed conversion than 1.04% of Arg. At 5 dpi, intestinal permeability was improved in birds fed 1.34% than 1.04% of Arg. Moreover, 1.34% of Arg upregulated the expression of the TJP Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) as compared with 1.24 and 1.44% of Arg at 6 dpi. At 14 dpi, 1.44% of Arg upregulated the expression of ZO-1 and ZO-2 compared with 1.24 and 1.34% of Arg. The nutrient digestibility was quadratically influenced by Arg, whereas the antioxidant markers were unaffected. Thus, the challenge with Eimeria had a negative impact on growth and intestinal health. The dietary supplementation of levels ranging from 1.24 to 1.44% of Arg showed promising results, improving overall growth, intestinal integrity, and morphology in broilers subjected or not to Eimeria challenge.

The effect of different dietary ratios of lysine, arginine and methionine on biochemical parameters and hormone secretion in turkeys

We postulated that the use of optimal levels and proportions of Lys, Arg and Met in compound feed allows for optimal exploitation of the growth potential of contemporary slaughter turkey hybrids and reduces metabolic disorders. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of different proportions of Lys, Arg and Met in diets whose Lys content is in accordance with NRC recommendations, that is a low level, on selected parameters of protein, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and on hormone secretion in turkeys. The lowest Arg content (90% Lys) in the diet resulted in an increase in plasma total cholesterol levels in the turkeys as compared to higher Arg content (100% or 110% of Lys), (2.50 vs. 2.09 vs. 1.83). Plasma HDL and creatinine concentration increased in turkeys fed diets with higher Arg content (100% and 110% Lys) compared to turkeys receiving the diet with the lowest Arg content (90% Lys). Compared to turkeys receiving the lowest and intermediate Arg content (90% and 100% Lys), the diet with the highest content of this AA (110% Lys) resulted in an increase in the plasma T4 level (71.21 vs. 86.60 vs. 128.2). The varied Arg and Met levels relative to Lys did not affect the secretion of neurotransmitters or hormones regulating glucose metabolism. At low levels of Met in the diet, an decrease in Arg relative to Lys from 100% to 90% caused a growth depression of turkeys (10.68 vs. 10.21 kg), which was not noted in the case of the higher Met content. When using the Lys level recommended by NRC in the turkey diet, the optimal Arg level is 100% and Met is 45% compared to Lys.

Effect of arginine supplementation on growth performance, lipid profile, and inflammatory responses of broiler chicks challenged with coccidiosis

Avian coccidiosis causes inflammation and decreases growth performance in poultry. Arginine alleviates inflammation and improves growth performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different levels of arginine on growth performance, lipid profile, and inflammatory responses in broiler chicks challenged with Eimeria spp. A total of 384 one-d-old broiler chicks were assigned into eight groups and six replications per group. At 21 days of age, a mixture of Eimeria species was used for induction of challenge in the broiler chicks. Broiler chicks were divided into infected and uninfected groups and received arginine at 85, 100, 125, and 150 % of recommended level. Growth performance, serum nitric oxide (NO), pro-inflammatory cytokines, lipid profile, and faecal oocyst were further assessed. Broiler chicks challenged with coccidiosis showed lower growth performance compared to non-challenged broiler chicks in grower and finisher periods; however, those fed diets containing 125 and 150 % arginine showed better growth performance compared to broiler chicks fed with 85 and100 % levels. The challenged broiler chicks showed higher concentrations for serum NO, lipid profile, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in comparison to uninfected ones. Nevertheless, adding arginine into diet at 125 and 150 % levels increased the levels of serum NO and decreased the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, higher levels of arginine caused anti-inflammatory effects in broiler chicks challenged with coccidiosis.

Influence of in ovo arginine feeding on hatching traits and post-hatch performance of FUNAAB-Alpha chickens in two housing types

The demand for animal protein in Nigeria is so high that introduction of new management techniques to improve poultry production is relevant. This study investigated the effects of in ovo administration of arginine on hatching traits and post-hatch performance of FUNAAB-Alpha chickens in two housing types. A total of 528 hatching eggs of FUNAAB-Alpha chickens were used for the study for 11 weeks. Hatching eggs were sorted, balanced for weight and fumigated before setting in the incubator. On the 14th day of incubation 378 eggs were confirmed fertile and they were redistributed into 3 treatment groups (0, 11 and 22 mg of arginine/egg) each consisting 126 eggs, replicated 14 times (9 eggs per replicate). At the 18th day of incubation, in ovo injection of arginine was carried out and at the 21st day of incubation, resulting chicks were balanced for weight, assigned to treatments and assessed for post-hatch performance. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomised design. In the results, hatchability was 92.86% (control), 88.39% (injection with 11 mg of arginine) and 91.07% in birds resulting from in ovo injection of 22 mg of arginine. In ovo injection of 11 and 22 mg of arginine improved the development of duodenal villi in the birds. In ovo injection of 22 and 11 mg of arginine enhanced CMIR after 24 (0.300 mm) and 48 h (0.223 mm) of injecting phytohaemagglutinin type P (PHA-P) antigen. Birds on outdoor run had higher (0.282, 0.224 mm) CMIR after 24 and 48 h of injecting PHA-P relative to those raised in deep litter housing. Birds from in ovo injection of 22 mg of arginine had a significantly lowered daily feed intake (68.38 g/bird) relative to other treatments. Deep litter housing significantly (p < 0.05) improved daily weight gain (25.02 g/bird) of birds as against outdoor run (22.62 g/bird). It was concluded that in ovo injection of 11 or 22 mg of arginine numerically improved hatchability and cell-mediated immune response with enhanced duodenal villi development, while in ovo injection of 22 mg of arginine and raising resulting birds on outdoor run is suitable for achieving significantly lower feed intake with better feed conversion ratio in FUNAAB-Alpha chickens.

Selenium/Zinc-Enriched probiotics improve serum enzyme activity, antioxidant ability, inflammatory factors and related gene expression of Wistar rats inflated under heat stress

AIMS

The present study was carried out to investigate the influences of Selenium/Zinc-Enriched probiotics (SeZnP) on growth performance, serum enzyme activity, antioxidant capability, inflammatory factors and gene expression associated with Wistar rats inflated under high ambient thermal-stress.

MAIN METHODS

Sixty male rates with six-weeks of age were randomly allocated into five groups (12 per group) and fed basal diet (Control), basal diet supplemented with probiotics (P), Zinc-Enriched probiotics (ZnP, 100 mg/L), Selenium-Enriched Probiotics (SeP, 0.3 mg/L) and Selenium/Zinc-Enriched probiotics (SeZnP, 0.3 mg + 100 mg/L). The experiment lasted 30 days. Blood and Tissues samples were taken to investigate serum enzyme activity, antioxidants capability and inflammatory factors by using of commercial kits and antioxidant, heat shock and inflammatory related molecules expressions were determined by qRT-PCR.

KEY FINDINGS

Data analysis revealed that thermal stress significantly increased the level of Aspartate-aminotransferase, Alanine-aminotransferase, Lactate-dehydrogenase, Creatine-kinase, blood urea nitrogen, Creatinine and Alkaline phosphatase compared to P, ZnP, SeP or SeZnP groups (P < 0.01). However, supplementation of ZnP, SeP, and SeZnP significantly enhanced glutathione content, glutathione-peroxidase & superoxide-dismutase activity, and decreased malondialdehyde content (P < 0.05). Moreover, the concentration of IL-2, IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly increased while IL-10 was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the expression of GPx1 and SOD1 genes were significantly increased, but COX-2, iNOS, HSP70 and 90 mRNA levels were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Finally, the highest influence of the mentioned parameters was observed in SeZnP supplemented group.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study suggests that SeZnP supplementation serves as possible and best nutritive than ZnP or SeP for Wistar rats raising under high ambient temperature.

Zinc-enriched probiotics enhanced growth performance, antioxidant status, immune function, gene expression, and morphological characteristics of Wistar rats raised under high ambient temperature

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of zinc-enriched probiotics (ZnP) on growth performance, antioxidant status, immune function, related gene expression, and morphological characteristics of Wistar rats raised under high heat stress condition during summer. 36, 6-week-old male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups; fed with basal diet (control), basal diet with probiotics (P), and basal diet with zinc-enriched probiotics supplementation (ZnP, 100 mg/L), for 40 consecutive days. Blood samples were collected through intracardiac method on the last day of experiment and tissues were collected from liver, heart, and kidneys. The results revealed that both P and ZnP significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced growth performance. However, ZnP remarkably increased glutathione content, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase activities but reduced malondialdehyde level in serum of the Wistar rats. The concentration of IL-2, IL-6, and IFN-γ was significantly (P < 0.05) increased with treatments of P and ZnP compared to control group while IL-10 was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased. Additionally, the expression of SOD1, SOD2, MT1, and MT2 genes was significantly (P < 0.05) up-regulated with the treatment of ZnP, but Hsp90 and Hsp70 heat shock genes were significantly (P < 0.05) down-regulated with the treatment of P and ZnP, respectively. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining showed that both P and ZnP supplementation treatments induced changes in villus height and intestinal wall thickness. In conclusion, zinc-enriched probiotics supplementation can improve the growth performance of Wistar rats under high ambient temperature through enhancing antioxidant status, immune function, related genes expression, and intestinal morphological characteristics. This product may serves as a potential nutritive supplement for Wistar rats under high heat stress conditions.

Effect of In Ovo Injection of L-Arginine in Different Chicken Embryonic Development Stages on Post-Hatchability, Immune Response, and Myo-D and Myogenin Proteins

Simple Summary

In the current study, we hypothesized that the in ovo injection of L-arginine (L-Arg) at different stages of embryonic development, which would have positive effects on the survival rate, hatching rate, immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels, heat shock proteins (HSPs) such as HSP-47, HSP-60, and HSP-70, and muscle development markers as well: Mainly, myoblast determination protein (myoD) and myogenin in pectoral muscles. As indicated, the in ovo injection of L-Arg resulted in an increased hatch rate and weight, survival rate, higher levels of IgM, and myogenin and MyoD expression in the muscles. At the same time, a decrease in the level of HSP-47, HSP-60, and HSP-70 expressions in the tissues was observed on the 14th day of injection compared to the eighth and 18th day of the injection period. In addition, the in ovo injection of L-Arg decreased the serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) concentration in serum as well micronuclei and nuclear abnormality in the blood on the 14th day of the incubation period. Hence, the 14th day would be a suitable day for the injection of L-Arg to promote the hatching rate and muscle growth of broiler chickens.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of in ovo injection with different ratios of L-arginine (L-Arg) into Ross broiler eggs at three different embryonic developmental stages (eighth day (d), 14th day, and 18th day) on the survival, hatchability, and body weight (BW) of one-day-old hatched chicks. Additionally, we have analyzed the levels of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), the protein expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs), and we have also determined micronuclei (MN) and nuclear abnormality (NA). In addition, the genotoxic effect was observed in peripheral blood cells such as the presence of micronuclei and nuclear abnormalities in the experimental groups. The results showed that survival and hatching rates as well as body weight were increased on the 14th day of incubation compared to the eighth and 18th day of incubation at lower concentrations of L-Arg. Moreover, the levels of SGOT and SGPT were also significantly (p < 0.05) increased on the 14th day of incubation at the same concentration (100 μg/μL/egg) of injection. In addition, immunoglobulin (IgM) levels were increased on the 14th day of incubation compared to other days. The protein expressions of HSP-47, HSP-60, and HSP-70 in the liver were significantly down-regulated, whereas the expression of myogenin and myoblast determination protein (MyoD) were significantly up-regulated on the 14th day after incubation when treated with all different doses such as 100 μg, 1000 μg, and 2500 μg/μL/egg, namely 3T1, 3T2, and 3T3, respectively. However, the treatment with low doses of L-Arg down-regulated the expression levels of those proteins on the 14th day of incubation. Histopathology of the liver by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining showed that the majority of liver damage, specifically intracytoplasmic vacuoles, were observed in the 3T1, 3T2, and 3T3 groups. The minimum dose of 100 μg/mL/egg on the 14th day of incubation significantly prevented intracytoplasmic vacuole damages. These results demonstrate that in ovo administration of L-Arg at (100 μg/μL/egg) may be an effective method to increase chick BW, hatch rate, muscle growth-related proteins, and promote the immune response through increasing IgM on the 14th day of the incubation period.

Comparative effects of zinc oxide, zinc oxide nanoparticle and zinc-methionine on hatchability and reproductive variables in male Japanese quail

The objective was to examine the effect of different dietary zinc sources on reproduction of male Japanese quail. A total of 512 quail chicks (day-old) were divided into four groups with four replications for a period of 42 days. After this period, excess chicks were removed to attain the ratio of one male to three females and 16 quail in each subgroup. At 52 to 60 d of age, the eggs were collected and incubated. The basal diet (control) contained no zinc and the other three experimental diets were supplemented with 25 and 50 mg/kg zinc from zinc oxide (ZnO), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONP) and zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) for 1 to 35 and 36 to 60 days, respectively. On day 42, two males from each replicate were euthanized. Males from the ZnO and Zn-Met treatments had an increase (P < 0.05) in seminiferous tubule diameters (STD) and germinal epithelium thickness (GET) compared with the control and ZnONP treatments. Cloacal gland index (CGI) was greatest (P < 0.05) for the Zn-Met compared with the other groups. Testosterone concentration was greater (P < 0.05) in the ZnO and Zn-Met compared with the other groups. Addition of Zn-Met to the diet enhanced (P < 0.05) fertility, hatchability and hatched chick weight compared with the other groups. Early and late embryonic death was greater (P < 0.05) in the control and ZnONP groups, respectively, compared with the other groups. This study indicated that supplementing diets with the Zn-Met source improves male Japanese quail reproductive performance and hatchability traits while zinc oxide nanoparticles have detrimental effects on male Japanese quail reproduction and reduces hatchability.

Extracorporeal delivery of a therapeutic enzyme

To remove circulating harmful small biochemical(s)/substrates causing/deteriorating certain chronic disease, therapeutic enzyme(s) delivered via vein injection/infusion suffer(s) from immunoresponse after repeated administration at proper intervals for a long time and short half-lives since delivery. Accordingly, a novel, generally-applicable extracorporeal delivery of a therapeutic enzyme is proposed, by refitting a conventional hemodialysis device bearing a dialyzer, two pumps and connecting tubes, to build a routine extracorporeal blood circuit but a minimal dialysate circuit closed to circulate the therapeutic enzyme in dialysate. A special quantitative index was derived to reflect pharmacological action and thus pharmacodynamics of the delivered enzyme. With hyperuricemic blood in vitro and hyperuricemic geese, a native uricase via extracorporeal delivery was active in the dialysate for periods much longer than that in vivo through vein injection, and exhibited the expected pharmacodynamics to remove uric acid in hyperuricemic blood in vitro and multiple forms of uric acid in hyperuricemic geese. Therefore, the extracorporeal delivery approach of therapeutic enzymes was effective to remove unwanted circulating small biochemical(s)/substrates, and was expected to avoid immunogenicity problems of therapeutic enzymes after repeated administration at proper intervals for a long time due to no contacts with macromolecules and cells in the body.

Preparation of selenium/zinc-enriched probiotics and their effect on blood selenium and zinc concentrations, antioxidant capacities, and intestinal microflora in canine

The aim of this study was to prepare Se/Zn-enriched probiotics and investigate their effect on blood Se and Zn concentrations, blood antioxidant capacities, and intestinal microflora in canine. The preparation was performed in a single-factor experiment. The optimal culture conditions were as follows: the initial concentrations of Se(4+) and Zn(2+) were 5 and 150 µg/ml, respectively; the inoculation volume was 5%; and the liquid volume of the medium was 50 ml in a 250-ml flask. The medium was then cultured at 32°C for 36 h. The biomass of the final product was 26.83 g/l, organic Se concentration was 173.35 µg/g, organic Zn concentration was 4.38 mg/g, Candida utilis biomass was 8.69 lg colony-forming units (CFU)/ml, and Lactobacillus biomass was 9.61 lg CFU/ml. In vivo, 20 indigenous dogs were randomly assigned to two dietary treatment groups for a 35-day study and fed a basal diet or a diet supplemented with 2.0 g of Se/Zn-enriched probiotics. Blood and fecal samples were collected on days 0, 15, and 30 of the experiment. Compared with the control group, the blood Se concentration; the blood Zn concentration; the activities of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity in the blood; and the amount of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in the feces increased in the supplemented group during the period of supplementation (P < 0.01), while malondialdehyde level in the blood and the amounts of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, and Enterococcus in the feces decreased in the supplemented group (P < 0.01).

Effects of L-arginine supplementation on glucose and nitric oxide (NO) levels and activity of NO synthase in corticosterone-challenged broiler chickens (Gallus gallus)

In the present study, three experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of oral supplementation of l-arginine (ARG) on the disposal of glucose in stressed-broiler chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus). In all the three experiments, the broiler chickens were randomly subjected to one of the four treatments at the beginning of the experiments: oral administration of saline, glucose (2.0g/kg body weight, BW), l-arginine (0.5g/kg BW) or mixed solution (2.0g glucose+0.5g arginine/kg BW). Immediately after the oral treatment, the experimental chickens were subcutaneously injected with corn oil (Experiment 1), corticosterone (CORT, 4mg/kg BW, Experiment 2) or insulin (1U/kg BW, Experiment 3), respectively. Blood samples were obtained at the beginning (0-h), 0.5-, 1- and 2-h time points after injection and the levels of plasma glucose, urate, nitric oxide (NO) and activity of NO synthase (NOS) were measured. The results showed that plasma NO levels and NOS activity were significantly suppressed while glucose and insulin concentrations were increased by CORT treatment. In contrast, insulin administration improved the circulating level of NO and activity of NOS. ARG supplementation could not improve the circulating levels of NO and NOS activity in CORT-challenged chickens and, in turn, the glucose disposal. The result suggests that NO is involved in insulin-mediated glucose transport in chickens, as well as that in mammals. The reduced circulating level of NO resulted from the suppressed activity of NOS rather than the reduced substrate concentration.