1
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Alaraji F. An innovative protocol to increase egg production of chicken layers. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305099. [PMID: 38843257 PMCID: PMC11156288 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of different doses of limestone, light durations, light intensities, and vitamins on both the productive performance and egg quality. The study utilized two rearing houses (control and treatment), each accommodating 75000 Lohmann Brown Classic chicks reared in open-sided rearing cages from one day old until they reached 89 weeks of age. Throughout the laying period, the hens were subjected to a specific light regimen (light = 14 h; dark = 10 h a day). At the end of experiment, the treatment group displayed significant (p<0.05) differences compared to the control group across various parameters. Notably, the treatment group exhibited lower daily feed intake (treatment: 112 g/bird vs control: 115 g/bird), 9.6% higher egg production (treatment: 78.5% vs control: 68.9%), lower body weight (treatment: 2057 g vs control: 2073 g), lower feed conversion ratio (FCR)/egg (treatment: 1.44 vs control: 1.69), higher egg weight (treatment: 69.4 g vs control: 68.5 g), greater egg mass (treatment: 56.14 vs control: 48.76), greater shell thickness (treatment: 3.52 mm vs control: 3.44 mm), and greater shell weight (treatment: 9.3 g vs control: 8.79 g). However, the albumin weight, yolk weight, yolk diameter, shape index, and Haugh units (HU) were not significantly (p˃0.05) affected after 75 weeks of treatment when compared with those of the control group. Therefore, this study is the first of its kind to demonstrate that different ratios of limestone, different durations and intensities of light, and different vitamin supplementation doses in the treatment group (subjected to the novel rearing recommendations described in this study) may yield a profit of 180,541 USD, exceeding the baseline profit of the control group (subjected to conventional rearing methods).
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Affiliation(s)
- Furkan Alaraji
- Department of Pathology and Poultry Diseases, University of Kufa, Kufa, Al-Najaf Province, Iraq
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2
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Gao G, Chen P, Zhou C, Zhao X, Zhang K, Wu R, Zhang C, Wang Y, Xie Y, Wang Q. Genome-wide association study for reproduction-related traits in Chinese domestic goose. Br Poult Sci 2022; 63:754-760. [PMID: 35775663 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2022.2096402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
1. This study measured six reproduction traits in a Sichuan white goose population (209 individuals), including fertility, qualified egg rate, plasma concentrations of progesterone (P), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL) and oestrogen (E2).2. Whole-genome resequencing data from the same goose population (209 individuals) were used in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) utilising a mixed linear model to investigate the genes and genetic markers associated with reproduction traits. The frequency of the selected SNPs and haplotypes were determined using the Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) method.3. In total, 42 SNPs significantly associated with these traits were identified. A haplotype block was constructed based on five SNPs that were significantly associated with qualified egg rate, with individuals having the haplotype CCTTAAGGAA having the lowest qualified egg rate.4. In conclusion, these results provided potential markers for marker-assisted selection to improve goose reproductive performance and a basis for elucidating the genetics of goose reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gao
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - P Chen
- Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station, Sucheng District Suqian, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - C Zhou
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - X Zhao
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - K Zhang
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - R Wu
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - C Zhang
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Y Wang
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Y Xie
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Q Wang
- Department of Poultry Science, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, P. R. China.,Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Goose Genetic Improvement, Chongqing, P. R. China
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Heijmans J, Duijster M, Gerrits W, Kemp B, Kwakkel R, van den Brand H. Impact of growth curve and dietary energy-to-protein ratio of broiler breeders on offspring quality and performance. Poult Sci 2022; 101:102071. [PMID: 36130449 PMCID: PMC9489505 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of growth curve (GC) and dietary energy-to-protein ratio of broiler breeder hens on chick quality and broiler performance was investigated. Pullets (n = 1,536) were randomly allotted to 24 pens and assigned to 1 of 8 treatments from hatch onwards, according to a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement with 2 GC (standard growth curve = SGC or elevated growth curve = EGC, +15%) and 4 diets, differing in energy-to-protein ratio (96%, 100%, 104%, and 108% AMEn diet). At 28 and 36 wk of age, 60 hatching eggs per maternal pen were selected for incubation and 768-day-old broilers were assigned to 32 pens according to maternal treatment. Broilers from EGC breeders were 1.9 g heavier at hatch (P < 0.001) and 36 g heavier at slaughter (P = 0.001) than broilers from SGC breeders due to a 1.0 g/d higher growth rate (P = 0.003) and 1.5 g/d higher feed intake (P = 0.006) from hatch to 32 d of age. An increase in breeder dietary energy-to-protein ratio resulted in a linear decrease in embryonic mortality in the first 3 d of incubation (β = -0.2% per % AMEn; P = 0.05). At hatch, broiler BW decreased with an increasing breeder dietary energy-to-protein ratio (β = -0.1 g per % AMEn; P = 0.001), whereas at slaughter broiler BW increased with an increasing breeder dietary energy-to-protein ratio (β = 3.2 g per % AMEn; P = 0.02). This was due to a linear increase in growth rate (β = 0.1 g/d per % AMEn; P = 0.004) and feed intake (β = 0.1 g/d per % AMEn; P = 0.02). Additionally, an increase in breeder dietary energy-to-protein ratio resulted in a linear decrease in body weight corrected feed conversion ratio (β = -0.002 per % AMEn; P = 0.002). Overall, it can be concluded that a higher GC of breeders and an increase in breeder dietary energy-to-protein ratio enhances offspring performance.
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Oluwabiyi C, Zhao J, Jiao H, Wang X, Lin H. Dietary protein levels during the pullet phase (8–18 week) influence the mortality during laying stage. J APPL POULTRY RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2021.100223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Baghel K, Srivastava R. Stress and steroid interaction modulates expression of estrogen receptor alpha in the brain, pituitary, and testes of immature Gallus gallus domesticus. Stress 2021; 24:931-944. [PMID: 34423719 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2021.1965119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In nature, food availability stimulates hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis while its scarcity induces stress, which further stimulates hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis producing a detrimental effect on the avian reproductive physiology. The present experiment was designed to examine the interaction of stress like food restriction and estradiol on male reproductive physiology with special emphasis on estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) as these play crucial role in reproduction. To achieve this, 60 day old White Leghorn immature cockrels were taken and divided into four groups (n = 8 per group). One group was provided with food and water ad libitum. Second group was food restricted (FR) for 9 h/day after 5 days, third and fourth were administered with estradiol benzoate (EB 0.5 mg/100g/day) for 12 days. Fourth group was FR for 9 h/day after 5 days of EB treatment till last day of experiment (EB + FR). Immunofluorescent localization of ERα was principally in the pre-optic area and paraventricular nuclei of hypothalamus and in anterior pituitary gland. ERα expression was highly reduced (from 40 AU to 20 AU) after FR in testis but it increased (50 AU) after EB administration, EB + FR reflects a diminishing pattern in the increment after EB. FR decreased plasma estradiol while EB increased it. Increased plasma corticosterone, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, and decreased anti-oxidant enzymes in brain and testis of all groups indicate oxidative stress in the HPG axis. The increased ERα after EB and a decrease with FR and EB + FR support their reproductive function. Estrogen and its receptor alpha are responsible for maintaining epithelial morphology but FR along with EB administration modulates the testicular development by significantly decreasing its size (p<.0001) and seminiferous tubules (p<.0001) and no sperm formation via highly reduced expression of ir-ERα in HPG axis. Our findings led us to conclude that stress like FR and estradiol induces testicular regression immature male chickens by modulating ir-ERα expression in the HPG axis thereby resulting in reduction in reproductive physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalpana Baghel
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Avian Reproductive Physiology & Endocrinology Laboratory, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar, India
| | - Rashmi Srivastava
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Avian Reproductive Physiology & Endocrinology Laboratory, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar, India
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Erdem H, Savaş T. Genotype-environment interaction in layer chickens in the growing stage: comparison of three genotypes at two different feeding levels with or without red mite ( Dermanyssus gallinae) infestation. Arch Anim Breed 2021; 64:447-455. [PMID: 34712775 PMCID: PMC8546882 DOI: 10.5194/aab-64-447-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated how early growth was affected in various chicken genotypes, which were fed ad libitum or restricted and with or without poultry red mite (PRM) infestation. Atak-S (AS), New Hampshire Red (NHR), and Light Sussex (LS) genotypes were used in the study. In total, 120 chicks were used from each genotype. Four groups were formed: feed-restricted (FR) and infested with parasite (P + ), FR only, fed ad libitum and P + , and fed ad libitum only. Feed restriction was applied as 20 % of the feed consumption of the group fed ad libitum the day before for each genotype. The study was conducted between 2 to 12 weeks of age. Weekly live weights and feed consumption were recorded, and the feed conversion ratio was calculated. Traps were placed in cages to count parasites. Regarding the live weight, NHR tolerated the PRM infestation in the ad libitum feed conditions better than other genotypes. While the infested NHR and AS birds had lower live weights than the non-infested ones under FR conditions, there was no difference between infested and non-infested birds of NHR and AS genotypes when they fed ad libitum. The feed consumption of infested AS and NHR birds was higher than that of non-infested counterparts when fed ad libitum. By contrast, the LS chicks consumed less food in the infested environment. In conclusion, the genotypes responded differently to PRM infestation in different feeding environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Erdem
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, 17020 Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Türker Savaş
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, 17020 Çanakkale, Turkey
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Timing of growth affected broiler breeder feeding motivation and reproductive traits. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101375. [PMID: 34358953 PMCID: PMC8350539 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The amount and timing of growth are important factors that affect age at first egg, body conformation, reproductive performance, and hunger in broiler breeders. To investigate the effect of growth pattern on feeding motivation and reproductive performance, 10 unique growth trajectories were designed with 2 levels of the amount of early growth and 5 levels of timing of growth around puberty. A 3-phase Gompertz model that described growth in phase 1 (prepubertal), phase 2 (pubertal), and phase 3 (postpubertal) was used to design the growth trajectories. Second growth phase inflection point (I2) was advanced by 0, 5, 10, 15, or 20% of the coefficient estimated from the breeder-recommended target BW. The growth trajectories were designed with 2 discrete levels of total gain in the prepubertal phase (g1); g1 was either the prepubertal phase gain coefficient, estimated from the breeder-recommended BW (Standard g1) target, or 10% higher (High g1). Forty females were randomly assigned to the growth trajectories using a precision feeding (PF) system. Analysis of covariance was conducted on dependent variables in ten 4-wk periods with g1 and periods as discrete fixed effects, I2 as a continuous fixed effect, and age as a random effect. Differences were reported at P ≤ 0.05. For every week of earlier I2, body weight at photostimulation (BWPS) increased by 126 g; BW at first egg (BWFE) increased by 94 g; 24 wk shank length increased by 0.038 and 1.495 mm in the Standard g1 and High g1 treatments; 24 wk body fat increased by 0.38%; pullets came to lay earlier by 0.49 d; egg weight (EW) increased by 0.27 g; egg production and egg mass (EM) increased by 0.33 egg/hen/d and 0.916 g/d in the High g1 treatment but decreased by 0.27 egg/hen/d and 0.29 g/d in the Standard g1 treatment, respectively. Increasing g1 reduced feeding motivation index by 1.6 and 0.8 visits/meal during rearing and laying phase, respectively. Earlier pubertal growth showed prominent effects on the reproductive performance.
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Oviedo-Rondón EO, Matta YA, Ortiz A, Alfaro-Wisaquillo MC, Cordova-Noboa HA, Chico M, Hoyos JS, Quintana-Ospina GA, Caldas JV, Buitrago D, Martinez JD, Yanquen JJ. Effects of amino acid levels during rearing on Cobb 500 slow-feathering broiler breeders: 2. Reproductive performance. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101398. [PMID: 34428645 PMCID: PMC8383008 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Crude protein and amino acid (AA) content in rearing diets affect body composition and reproductive performance. This study evaluated the effects of 4 dietary AA levels during rearing on BW, egg production and composition, fertility, hatchability, and embryo mortality up to 65 wk of age on Cobb 500 slow-feathering (SF) broiler breeders. The treatments consisted in 80% (low-AA), 90% (moderate-AA), 100% (standard-AA), and 110% (high-AA) of the AA recommendations for Cobb 500 SF pullets from 5 to 24 wk. AA was guided by an ideal protein profile based on digestible Lys. A total of 1,360 pullets and 288 Cobb MV cockerels were randomly placed in 16 pullets and 16 cockerel floor-pens. At 22 wk, 1,040 females and 112 males were transferred into 16-floor pens in a laying house. BW increased linearly (P < 0.01) as AA augmented at 25, 36, and 40 wk. No effects (P > 0.05) at the onset of lay were observed. Moderate-AA and standard-AA resulted in the best hen-housed egg production (HHEP) at 65 wk with 174.3 and 176.5 eggs, respectively. The optimum level of AA for HHEP at 65 wk was estimated (P < 0.001) in 96.7% and 94.7% by the quadratic and broken line models, respectively. Overall, the lightest egg weight (P = 0.022) was obtained with 89%AA during rearing, and the heaviest eggs (P < 0.001) were found at 54 wk. Response surface regression indicated linear effects on albumen and yolk percentages (P < 0.01) increasing and decreasing, respectively, as AA levels augmented; consequently, AA had a negative linear effect on Y:A ratio (P = 0.004) with quadratic effects (P < 0.01) of age (R2 = 0.92). No statistical effect of treatments was observed in fertility (P > 0.05), but AA had a quadratic effect (P = 0.046) on hatchability up to 50 wk of age with 97% as optimum, and decreased linearly (P = 0.004) from 51 to 65 wk. A few effects of treatments (P < 0.05) on embryo mortality were observed. In conclusion, AA levels during rearing affect broiler breeder reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar O Oviedo-Rondón
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608.
| | - Yilmar A Matta
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | - Andres Ortiz
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | | | - Hernan A Cordova-Noboa
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | - Miguel Chico
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | - Juan S Hoyos
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | - Gustavo A Quintana-Ospina
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | | | - Daniela Buitrago
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | - Juan D Martinez
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
| | - Jose J Yanquen
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA 27695-7608
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Nguyen HT, Bedford MR, Morgan NK. Importance of considering non-starch polysaccharide content of poultry diets. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00439339.2021.1921669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. T. Nguyen
- Department of Animal Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | | | - N. K. Morgan
- Department of Animal Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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Bédécarrats GY, Hanlon C, Tsutsui K. Gonadotropin Inhibitory Hormone and Its Receptor: Potential Key to the Integration and Coordination of Metabolic Status and Reproduction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:781543. [PMID: 35095760 PMCID: PMC8792613 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.781543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since its discovery as a novel gonadotropin inhibitory peptide in 2000, the central and peripheral roles played by gonadotropin-inhibiting hormone (GnIH) have been significantly expanded. This is highlighted by the wide distribution of its receptor (GnIH-R) within the brain and throughout multiple peripheral organs and tissues. Furthermore, as GnIH is part of the wider RF-amide peptides family, many orthologues have been characterized across vertebrate species, and due to the promiscuity between ligands and receptors within this family, confusion over the nomenclature and function has arisen. In this review, we intend to first clarify the nomenclature, prevalence, and distribution of the GnIH-Rs, and by reviewing specific localization and ligand availability, we propose an integrative role for GnIH in the coordination of reproductive and metabolic processes. Specifically, we propose that GnIH participates in the central regulation of feed intake while modulating the impact of thyroid hormones and the stress axis to allow active reproduction to proceed depending on the availability of resources. Furthermore, beyond the central nervous system, we also propose a peripheral role for GnIH in the control of glucose and lipid metabolism at the level of the liver, pancreas, and adipose tissue. Taken together, evidence from the literature strongly suggests that, in fact, the inhibitory effect of GnIH on the reproductive axis is based on the integration of environmental cues and internal metabolic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégoy Y. Bédécarrats
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Grégoy Y. Bédécarrats,
| | - Charlene Hanlon
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Kazuyoshi Tsutsui
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashihiroshima, Japan
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Kim E, Wickramasuriya SS, Shin TK, Cho HM, Kim HB, Heo JM. Estimating total lysine requirement for optimised egg production of broiler breeder hens during the early-laying period. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2020; 62:521-532. [PMID: 32803184 PMCID: PMC7416165 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2020.62.4.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The production performance of broiler breeder hens in response to different
levels of total lysine during the early laying period was investigated. A total
of 126 Ross 308 parent stock hens were offered one of seven dietary treatments
formulating elevated contents of total lysine ranging from 0.55% to 0.79% (0.04
scale; 133 g of feed) from 23 to 29 weeks of age. Each treatment had six
replicates with three birds per pen. Body weight was recorded triweekly and eggs
were collected and weighted at 9:00 am daily. One hen from each pen was
euthanized to collect blood samples and visceral organs were harvested and
weighed. Egg production, egg weight and egg mass were lower (p
< 0.05) in hens offered a diet containing 0.55% total lysine compared to
those fed the diet containing higher total lysine. Hens offered a diet
containing 0.71%, 0.75%, and 0.79% total lysine had greater (p
= 0.008) egg production rate compared to those offered a diet containing lysine
less than 0.71%. The number of total eggs produced tended to be greater
(p = 0.083) in hens offered a diet containing 0.71 and
0.75% total lysine compared to the other treatments. The number of settable egg
production was higher (p < 0.001) in hens offered a diet
contacting 0.79% total lysine compared to those fed the diet containing lower
levels of total lysine. The relative weights of oviduct and ovary were lower
(p < 0.05) in hens offered a diet containing 0.59%
total lysine compared to the other treatments. No difference found in body
weight, the number of total eggs, double-yolk eggs and abnormal shell eggs among
the treatments. The urea nitrogen, estradiol-17 beta and progesterone in plasma
were not affected by treatments. Based on linear- and quadratic-plateau models,
total lysine requirements for egg production, settable egg production and egg
mass at the early laying period were to be 0.73%, 0.77%, and 0.71%,
respectively. Modern broiler breeder hens likely require higher total lysine
than NRC recommendation in a diet for enhancing productivity during the
early-laying period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjoo Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea.,School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | | | - Taeg Kyun Shin
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Hyun Min Cho
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Hyeun Bum Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Jung Min Heo
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
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Abstract
Based on data from the UN's Food and Agricultural Organization, about 120 million metric tons of poultry meat were produced globally in 2016. In addition, about 82 million metric tons of eggs were produced. One of the bases for this production is the reproductive efficiency of today's poultry. This, in turn, is due to their inherent reproductive physiology, intensive genetic selection and advances in husbandry/management. The system of reproduction in males in largely similar to that in mammals except that there is no descent of testes. In females, there are marked differences with there being a single ovary and oviduct; the latter being the name of the differentiated entire Müllerian duct. Moreover, females produce eggs with a yolky oocyte surrounded by albumen, membranes and shell. Among the most successful reproductive management techniques are optimizing photoperiod, light intensity and nutrition. Widespread employment of these has allowed maximizing production. Laying hens can be re-cycled toward the end egg production. Other aspects of reproductive management in poultry include the following: artificial insemination (almost exclusively employed in turkeys) and approaches to reduce broodiness together with cage free (colony), conventional, enriched and free-range systems.
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13
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Li C, Hu Q, Lesuisse J, Schallier S, Bautil A, Lamberigts C, Driessen B, Everaert N, Lin H, Buyse J. The effect of reduced balanced protein diet on the behavior of female broiler breeders in 2 generations. Poult Sci 2019; 98:4301-4312. [PMID: 31250010 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The behavior of 2 generations of broiler breeders undergoing a 25% reduced balanced protein (RP) dietary treatment was investigated in the current study. There were 2 treatments for the F0 generation: control (C) breeders fed with standard C diets and RP breeders fed with RP diets. The female progeny of each treatment was again subjected to 2 dietary treatments, resulting in 4 treatments for F1 generation: C/C, C/RP, RP/C, and RP/RP (breeder feed in F0/F1 generation). To maintain the target body weights throughout the trial, breeders on RP diet received on average 10% more feed than C diet breeders. The behavior of the breeders at 8h30 (30 min before feeding at 9h00), 12h00, and 15h30 in weeks 23 and 37 of the F0 generation and in week 6, 11, and 22 of the F1 generation was observed. Litter scratching, feather pecking, and object pecking were occasionally increased by RP diet feeding which indicated feeding frustration. Drinking behavior decreased dramatically by the RP dietary feeding and resulting in a better litter condition which could benefit dust bathing behavior. In addition, feeding the breeders RP diet in the F0 generation decreased litter scratching (week 6) and feather pecking (week 22, 15h30) but increased sitting (week 11, 15h30) and drinking (a tendency in week 6 and a significant effect in week 11) behavior of offspring breeders (F1 generation). In general, breeders fed with reduced balanced protein diets, to some extent, spent less time drinking and their offspring could have an adaptation to the maternal RP diet. The mechanism of this adaptation still needs to be further investigated. In general, positive effects were found by reducing protein level of breeder diets. However, negative side effects such as feeding frustration were also observed, which merit further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Li
- Laboratory of Livestock Physiology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Q Hu
- Department of Animal Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, PR China
| | - J Lesuisse
- Laboratory of Livestock Physiology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - S Schallier
- Laboratory of Livestock Physiology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - A Bautil
- Laboratory of Livestock Physiology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - C Lamberigts
- Laboratory of Livestock Physiology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - B Driessen
- Research Group Animal Welfare, 3583 Paal, Belgium
| | - N Everaert
- Precision livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, B-5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - H Lin
- Department of Animal Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, PR China
| | - J Buyse
- Laboratory of Livestock Physiology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium
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Implications of changes to commercial broiler and broiler breeder body weight targets over the past 30 years. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/s0043933907001572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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15
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Renema R, Robinson F. Defining normal: comparison of feed restriction and full feeding of female broiler breeders. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2019. [DOI: 10.1079/wps200434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R.A. Renema
- Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada, T5G 2P5
| | - F.E. Robinson
- Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada, T5G 2P5
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Wei Z, Li P, Huang S, Lkhagvagarav P, Zhu M, Liang C, Jia C. Identification of key genes and molecular mechanisms associated with low egg production of broiler breeder hens in ad libitum. BMC Genomics 2019; 20:408. [PMID: 31117935 PMCID: PMC6532148 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-019-5801-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Overfeeding reduces laying performance in broiler breeder hens, which is associated with obesity, hepatic steatosis and systemic inflammation. To unravel the underlying mechanisms governing the effect of feeding regimes on energy metabolism and egg production, a transcriptomics approach was carried out for screening differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in ovary, liver and adipose tissues of broiler chickens under ad libitum and restricted feeding. Results It showed that 289, 388 and 204 DEGs were identified in the adipose, liver and ovary, respectively. These DEGs were significantly enriched in phagosome pathway, lipid transport, activity and nutrient reservoir activity in ovary; steroid hormone biosynthesis and metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450 pathways in adipose tissue; and the metabolic pathways, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) and Jak-STAT signaling pathway in liver. Estrogen receptor 1, identified as one of important hubs by constructing PPI network, was up-regulated in ad libitum group, which would make more apolipoproteins be transferred to ovary. Conclusions High expression of VTGs, APOB, CYBB and CTSS in ovary would induce excess lipid deposit, oxidative stress and potential damage to ovulation. Our results contribute to understanding effects of feeding regimes on metabolic regulation during egg production of broiler breeder hens and also provide new evidence of metabolic regulation from integrated multi-tissue processes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-019-5801-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehui Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22# Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengcheng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22# Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sijia Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22# Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Purevsuren Lkhagvagarav
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22# Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mengqi Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22# Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chuanyu Liang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22# Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Cunling Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22# Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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Naundrup Thøfner IC, Poulsen LL, Bisgaard M, Christensen H, Olsen RH, Christensen JP. Longitudinal Study on Causes of Mortality in Danish Broiler Breeders. Avian Dis 2019; 63:400-410. [DOI: 10.1637/12006-113018-reg.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ida Cecilie Naundrup Thøfner
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Stigbøjlen 4, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Louise Ladefoged Poulsen
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Stigbøjlen 4, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Magne Bisgaard
- Bisgaard Consulting, Horsevænget 40, DK-4130, Viby Sjælland, Denmark
| | - Henrik Christensen
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Stigbøjlen 4, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Rikke Heidemann Olsen
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Stigbøjlen 4, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Christensen
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Stigbøjlen 4, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
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van der Klein SAS, Bédécarrats GY, Zuidhof MJ. The effect of rearing photoperiod on broiler breeder reproductive performance depended on body weight. Poult Sci 2018; 97:3286-3294. [PMID: 29878187 PMCID: PMC6093749 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Body weight (BW) and rearing photoperiod are important factors affecting sexual maturation rate and reproductive performance in broiler breeders. The current experiment used a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments to study the interaction between BW and rearing photoperiod on reproductive performance in group housed broiler breeder hens, while minimizing variation in BW. Hens (n = 180) were fed with a precision feeding system to allocate feed individually to achieve the breeder-recommended target curve (Standard) or to a target curve that reached the 21 wk BW at 18 wk (High). Hens were on 8L:16D, 10L:14D, or 12L:12D photoschedules during rearing and were photostimulated at 21 wk with a 16L:8D photoschedule. Sexual maturity (defined as age at first egg) and individual egg production to 55 wk were recorded. At 55 wk, proportional weights of individual body components were determined by dissection. Differences were reported as significant at P ≤ 0.05. A significant interaction between BW and rearing photoschedule affected age at sexual maturity and egg production. In the High BW treatment, age at sexual maturity did not differ between hens under the 8L:16D and 10L:14D photoschedules (173 vs. 172 d, respectively). In the Standard BW treatment, the 12L:12D rearing photoperiod delayed sexual maturity compared with the 8L:16D rearing photoperiod (266 vs. 180 d, respectively). All hens on the High BW treatment laid at least 1 egg before the end of the experiment. Conversely, 3.3, 18.1, and 37.6% of Standard BW hens on the 8L:16D, 10L:14D, and 12L:12D photoschedules, respectively, never commenced egg production. At the end of the experiment, proportional breast weight was higher and proportional fatpad weight was lower in Standard compared to High BW hens (25.8 vs. 27.5% and 2.4 vs. 1.5% of BW, respectively). We conclude that increased BW partially counters the effect of longer photoschedules on sexual maturity in broiler breeders and that dissipation of the photorefractory state depends on BW.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A S van der Klein
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2P5, Canada
| | - G Y Bédécarrats
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - M J Zuidhof
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2P5, Canada
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Caughey SD, Wilson PW, Mukhtar N, Brocklehurst S, Reid A, D'Eath RB, Boswell T, Dunn IC. Sex differences in basal hypothalamic anorectic and orexigenic gene expression and the effect of quantitative and qualitative food restriction. Biol Sex Differ 2018; 9:20. [PMID: 29843787 PMCID: PMC5975468 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-018-0178-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research into energy balance and growth has infrequently considered genetic sex, yet there is sexual dimorphism for growth across the animal kingdom. We test the hypothesis that in the chicken, there is a sex difference in arcuate nucleus neuropeptide gene expression, since previous research indicates hypothalamic AGRP expression is correlated with growth potential and that males grow faster than females. Because growth has been heavily selected in some chicken lines, food restriction is necessary to improve reproductive performance and welfare, but this increases hunger. Dietary dilution has been proposed to ameliorate this undesirable effect. We aimed to distinguish the effects of gut fullness from nutritional feedback on hypothalamic gene expression and its interaction with sex. Methods Twelve-week-old male and female fast-growing chickens were either released from restriction and fed ad libitum or a restricted diet plus 15% w/w ispaghula husk, a non-nutritive bulking agent, for 2 days. A control group remained on quantitative restriction. Hypothalamic arcuate nucleus neuropeptides were measured using real-time PCR. To confirm observed sex differences, the experiment was repeated using only ad libitum and restricted fed fast-growing chickens and in a genetically distinct breed of ad libitum fed male and female chickens. Linear mixed models (Genstat 18) were used for statistical analysis with transformation where appropriate. Results There were pronounced sex differences: expression of the orexigenic genes AGRP (P < 0.001) and NPY (P < 0.002) was higher in males of the fast-growing strain. In genetically distinct chickens, males had higher AGRP mRNA (P = 0.002) expression than females, suggesting sex difference was not restricted to a fast-growing strain. AGRP (P < 0.001) expression was significantly decreased in ad libitum fed birds but was high and indistinguishable between birds on a quantitative versus qualitative restricted diet. Inversely, gene expression of the anorectic genes POMC and CART was significantly higher in ad libitum fed birds but no consistent sex differences were observed. Conclusion Expression of orexigenic peptides in the avian hypothalamus are significantly different between sexes. This could be useful starting point of investigating further if AGRP is an indicator of growth potential. Results also demonstrate that gut fill alone does not reduce orexigenic gene expression. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13293-018-0178-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Caughey
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, Edinburgh, EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK.
| | - P W Wilson
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, Edinburgh, EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK
| | - N Mukhtar
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, Edinburgh, EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK
| | - S Brocklehurst
- Bioinformatics and Statistics Scotland, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - A Reid
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, Edinburgh, EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK
| | - R B D'Eath
- Scotland's Rural College, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - T Boswell
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, England, UK
| | - I C Dunn
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, Edinburgh, EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK
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20
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Li F, Mou SY, Liu Y, Jiang D, Wang C, Chen YL, Ren HL, Xu LM. Maternal dietary energy levels affected the lipid deposition of offspring embryos at the end of the laying period of broiler breeder hens. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2017.1345665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Shao Yang Mou
- Shandong Yisheng Livestock & Poultry Breeding Co., Ltd, Yantai, China
| | - Yang Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Dan Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Chao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Ying Lin Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Hai Lun Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Liang Mei Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
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21
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Kousted TM, Kalliokoski O, Christensen SK, Winther JR, Hau J. Exploring the antigenic response to multiplexed immunizations in a chicken model of antibody production. Heliyon 2017; 3:e00267. [PMID: 28367512 PMCID: PMC5362046 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2017.e00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hens have a tremendous capacity for producing polyclonal antibodies that can subsequently be isolated in high concentrations from their eggs. An approach for further maximizing their potential is to produce multiple antisera in the same individual through multiplexed (multiple simultaneous) immunizations. An unknown with this approach is how many immunogens a single bird is capable of mounting a sizeable antigenic response toward. At what point does it become counter-productive to add more immunogens to the same immunization regimen? In the present study we were able to demonstrate that the competing effects of co-administering multiple immunogens effectively limit the antibody specificities that can be raised in a single individual to a fairly low number. Two potent model immunogens, KLH and CRM197, were administered together with competing antigens in various concentrations and complexities. With an upper limit of 1 mg protein material recommended for chicken immunizations, we found that the maximum number of immunogens that can be reliably used is most likely in the low double digits. The limiting factor for a response to an immunogen could not be related to the number of splenic plasma cells producing antibodies against it. When administering KLH alone, up to 70% of the IgY-producing splenic plasma cells were occupied with producing anti-KLH antibodies; but when simultaneously being exposed to a plethora of other antigens, a response of a comparable magnitude could be mounted with a splenic plasma cell involvement of less than 5%. Two breeds of egg-layers were compared with respect to antibody production in an initial experiment, but differences in antibody productivity were negligible. Although our findings support the use of multiplexed immunizations in the hen, we find that the number of immunogens cannot be stretched much higher than the handful that has been used in mammalian models to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina M. Kousted
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Otto Kalliokoski
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Corresponding author at: Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | | | - Jakob R. Winther
- Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jann Hau
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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Milisits G, Szentirmai E, Donkó T, Budai Z, Ujvári J, Áprily S, Bajzik G, Sütő Z. Effect of starting body fat content and genotype of laying hens on the changes in their live weight, body fat content, egg production and egg composition during the first egg-laying period. Br Poult Sci 2015; 56:666-72. [DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2015.1099612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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23
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van Emous RA, Kwakkel R, van Krimpen M, Hendriks W. Effects of different dietary protein levels during rearing and different dietary energy levels during lay on behaviour and feather cover in broiler breeder females. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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24
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van Emous R, Kwakkel R, van Krimpen M, Hendriks W. Effects of dietary protein levels during rearing and dietary energy levels during lay on body composition and reproduction in broiler breeder females. Poult Sci 2015; 94:1030-42. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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van Emous R, Kwakkel R, van Krimpen M, van den Brand H, Hendriks W. Effects of growth patterns and dietary protein levels during rearing of broiler breeders on fertility, hatchability, embryonic mortality, and offspring performance. Poult Sci 2015; 94:681-91. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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Hocking PM. Unexpected consequences of genetic selection in broilers and turkeys: problems and solutions. Br Poult Sci 2014; 55:1-12. [PMID: 24397366 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2014.877692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
1. Genetic theory leads to the expectation that unexpected consequences of genetic selection for production traits will inevitably occur and that these changes are likely to be undesirable. 2. Both artificial selection for production efficiency and "natural" selection for adaptation to the production environment result in selection sweeps that increase the frequencies of rare recessive alleles that have a negative effect on fitness. 3. Fitness is broadly defined as any trait that affects the ability to survive, reproduce and contribute to the next generation, such as musculoskeletal disease in growing broiler chickens and multiple ovulation in adult broiler parents. 4. Welfare concerns about the negative effects of genetic selection on bird welfare are sometimes exaggerated but are nevertheless real. Breeders have paid increasing attention to these traits over several decades and have demonstrated improvement in pedigree flocks. There is an urgent need to monitor changes in commercial flocks to ensure that genetic change is accompanied by improvements in that target population. 5. New technologies for trait measurement, whole genome selection and targeted genetic modification hold out the promise of efficient and rapid improvement of welfare traits in future breeding of broiler chickens and turkeys. The potential of targeted genetic modification for enhancing welfare traits is considerable, but the goal of achieving public acceptability for the progeny of transgenic poultry will be politically challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Hocking
- a The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies , University of Edinburgh , Easter Bush , Midlothian , EH25 9RG , UK
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27
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Effects of growth pattern and dietary protein level during rearing on feed intake, eating time, eating rate, behavior, plasma corticosterone concentration, and feather cover in broiler breeder females during the rearing and laying period. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2013.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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28
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van Emous R, Kwakkel R, van Krimpen M, Hendriks W. Effects of growth patterns and dietary crude protein levels during rearing on body composition and performance in broiler breeder females during the rearing and laying period. Poult Sci 2013; 92:2091-100. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2012-02987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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McDerment NA, Wilson PW, Waddington D, Dunn IC, Hocking PM. Identification of novel candidate genes for follicle selection in the broiler breeder ovary. BMC Genomics 2012; 13:494. [PMID: 22992265 PMCID: PMC3511242 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-13-494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Broiler breeders fed ad libitum are characterised by multiple ovulation, which leads to poor shell quality and egg production. Multiple ovulation is controlled by food restriction in commercial flocks. However, the level of food restriction raises welfare concerns, including that of severe hunger. Reducing the rate of multiple ovulation by genetic selection would facilitate progress towards developing a growth profile for optimum animal welfare. RESULTS The study utilised 3 models of ovarian follicle development; laying hens fed ad libitum (experiment 2) and broiler breeders fed ad libitum or a restricted diet (experiments 1 & 3). This allowed us to investigate gene candidates for follicular development by comparing normal, abnormal and "controlled" follicle hierarchies at different stages of development. Several candidate genes for multiple ovulation were identified by combining microarray analysis of restricted vs. ad libitum feeding, literature searches and QPCR expression profiling throughout follicle development. Three candidate genes were confirmed by QPCR as showing significant differential expression between restricted and ad libitum feeding: FSHR, GDF9 and PDGFRL. PDGFRL, a candidate for steroidogenesis, showed significantly up-regulated expression in 6-8 mm follicles of ad libitum fed broiler breeders (P = 0.016), the period at which follicle recruitment occurs. CONCLUSIONS Gene candidates have been identified and evidence provided to support a possible role in regulation of ovarian function and follicle number. Further characterisation of these genes will be required to assess their potential for inclusion into breeding programmes to improve the regulation of follicle selection and reduce the need for feed restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A McDerment
- The Roslin Institute & R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK.
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Assessment of growth performance, immune responses, serum metabolites, and prevalence of leg weakness in broiler chicks submitted to early-age water restriction. Trop Anim Health Prod 2011; 43:1183-9. [PMID: 21455695 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-011-9821-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two methods of early-age water restriction on performance, some immune responses, serum metabolites, and prevalence of leg weakness in broiler chicks. One-hundred-eighty-seven-day-old chicks (Ross 308) were allocated to three treatments with four replicates based on a completely randomized design. Treatments included the control group, where birds had free access to water, and water-restricted groups, where access to water was limited to three 2-h periods (WRT1) or a 12-h period (WRT2) per day from days 7 to 17. Chicks in the control group were significantly heavier (P < 0.05) at 17 and 46 days of age compared to the restricted birds. In the WRT2 group, feed intake decreased significantly over the 17- to 28-day period while feed conversion ratio was poorer during water restriction (P < 0.05). Antibody titers against Newcastle and SRBC were higher (P < 0.05) for chicks with ad libitum access to water. Birds in the restricted groups exhibited a higher heterophil to lymphocyte ratio compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The treatments had no significant impact on serum metabolites including protein, triglyceride, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterols, calcium, and phosphorus concentrations. Walking ability, tibial dyschondroplasia, foot pad, hock burn, and valgus/varus angulation were not significantly influenced by water restriction. In conclusion, the current results indicate that early-age water restriction negatively influenced productive traits and immunological responses of broiler chicks and failed to have any favorable impacts on leg health.
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Podisi BK, Knott SA, Dunn IC, Law AS, Burt DW, Hocking PM. Overlap of quantitative trait loci for early growth rate, and for body weight and age at onset of sexual maturity in chickens. Reproduction 2011; 141:381-9. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Critical age, weight and body composition have been suggested as necessary correlates of sexual maturity. A genome scan to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for age and body weight at first egg (AFE and WFE) was conducted on 912 birds from an F2broiler–layer cross using 106 microsatellite markers. Without a covariate, QTL for body WFE were detected on chromosomes 2, 4, 8, 27 and Z and a single QTL for AFE was detected on chromosome 2. With AFE as a covariate, additional QTL for body WFE were found on chromosomes 1 and 13, with abdominal fat pad as covariate a QTL for body WFE was found on chromosome 1. With body WFE as covariate, additional QTL for AFE were found on chromosomes 1, 3, 4, 13 and 27. The QTL generally acted additively and there was no evidence for epistasis. Consistent with the original line differences, broiler alleles had positive effects on body WFE and negative effects on AFE, whereas the phenotypic correlation between the two traits was positive. The mapped QTL for body WFE cumulatively accounted for almost half the body weight difference between the chicken lines at puberty. Overlapping QTL for body WFE and body weight to 9 weeks of age indicate that most QTL affecting growth rate also affect body WFE. The co-localisation of QTL for body weight, growth and sexual maturity suggests that body weight and growth rate are closely related to the attainment of sexual maturity and that the genetic determination of growth rate has correlated effects on puberty.
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32
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Proportion of insoluble fibre in the diet affects behaviour and hunger in broiler breeders growing at similar rates. Animal 2011; 5:1247-58. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731111000218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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33
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Sheikh Ahmadi A, Zaghari M, Shivazad M, Hassanpour H, Towhidi A. Increased iNOS gene expression in the granulosa layer of F1 follicle of over-fed and under-fed broiler breeder hens. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2010. [DOI: 10.1590/s1516-635x2010000400004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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34
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Edmond A, King LA, Solomon SE, Bain MM. Effect of environmental enrichment during the rearing phase on subsequent eggshell quality in broiler breeders. Br Poult Sci 2010; 46:182-9. [PMID: 15957438 DOI: 10.1080/00071660500065565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study set out to investigate if access to an enriched environment during the rearing phase influences subsequent production and eggshell quality in broiler breeders. Broiler breeder pullets were reared under standard rearing conditions (control treatment) or under standard conditions with an environmental enrichment of bales of plastic-wrapped wood shavings (enriched treatment). At 19 weeks of age both groups were transported to a laying facility and housed in standard pens according to treatment type. Egg weight, shape, shell thickness, non-destructive deformation, breaking strength, stiffness and ultrastructural quality were compared at beginning of lay (25 weeks old), peak production (31 weeks old), mid-lay (45 weeks old) and end of lay (57 weeks old). Production and hatchery data were also collected throughout lay. Significant treatment-age interactions were detected for non-destructive deformation, breaking strength and stiffness, such that birds which had received prior enrichment went on to maintain a better shell quality with age. The measurements of total shell thickness, mammillary thickness and effective shell thickness all showed a trend for a treatment-age interaction. Significant age effects were found for weight, shape index, shell thickness, breaking strength and stiffness. All production and hatchery data also demonstrated significant changes with age. It is concluded that early enrichment with bales of wood shavings may provide a novel approach to the maintenance of eggshell quality at a time when calcium metabolism begins to reduce in efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Edmond
- Division of Cell Sciences, Institute of Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow Veterinary School, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland.
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35
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36
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Outcome of the Stakeholders and Public consultation on Health and Welfare aspects of genetic selection in broilers. EFSA J 2010. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2010.1670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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37
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Assurance schemes as a tool to tackle genetic welfare problems in farm animals: broilers. Anim Welf 2010. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600002232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractFarm assurance schemes can set standards to assure compliance with specific requirements relating to animal welfare. As such, standards can be set to address genetic-related welfare problems in farm animals, such as those associated with fast growth rates in meat chickens (broilers) (Gallus gallus domesticus). Based on discussions with broiler breeding companies, broiler producers and in line with published research, the RSPCA placed a maximum limit on the genetic growth rate potential of broilers that could be used within its own farm assurance scheme — Freedom Food. Despite the introduction of this requirement, the number of birds reared on the scheme increased from 25 million to 55 million per year over a three-year period, with all of these birds meeting the genetically slower growing requirement. In addition, the two largest global broiler breeding companies responded to this change in the market by each developing a genetically slower growing bird. This demonstrates that assurance schemes can have a pivotal role in tackling genetic welfare problems in farm animals, such as those associated with fast growth in broilers.
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38
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Ethics of feeding: the omnivore dilemma. Anim Welf 2010. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600001147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe way in which animals are fed is an important aspect of their welfare. Not only does food provide the energy and nutrients vital for survival, but feeding is also associated with a number of other factors contributing to the well-being of animals. The feeding method can determine the animals’ abilities to fulfil basic behavioural needs, such as foraging. The aim of this paper is to review and discuss the dilemma of choosing between ad libitum feeding (AL) and dietary restriction (DR). AL can produce obese individuals with severe health problems, though it does appear to be compatible with welfare-friendly management systems. On the other hand, DR is often associated with improved physical health and longevity but can leave animals suffering from hunger, frustration or aggression. The species discussed are the laboratory rat, pigs and poultry all of which are omnivores sharing many characteristics in their eating habits. The welfare implications of different feeding methods depend upon the definition of welfare used. Based on a definition of welfare in terms of functioning, DR could be considered the best way to feed animals, because it results in improved physical health and longevity. If welfare is defined in terms of natural living, it is also a requirement for the animal to be able to engage in natural foraging behaviours. From the feelings-based approach, DR can be viewed as preferable only in circumstances when animals are anticipated to live so long that they would otherwise suffer from the negative long-term consequences of AL. It is argued that incentives are needed to make farmers spend resources to ensure that farm animals are allowed to have their foraging-related needs fulfilled. Feeding of laboratory animals creates special dilemmas when it is important either to under- or over-nourish the animals for experimental purposes, in such instances there is a need for Refinement.
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39
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Alvarez R, Hocking PM. Stochastic modelling of optimum initial body weight, daily weight gain and effect of genetic changes in ovulation rate and age at sexual maturity on total egg production of broiler breeders. Br Poult Sci 2009; 50:135-43. [PMID: 19234938 DOI: 10.1080/00071660802642137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
1. A model that simulates the total production of eggs (TEP) in broiler breeders was used to predict the optimum initial (20 week) body weight (IBWexp), daily weight gains from 20 to 30 (DWGexp(20-30)) and 31 to 62 weeks of age (DWGexp(31-62)), age at photostimulation (affecting age at first egg, AFEexp), coefficients of variation of initial body weight (CV-IBWexp) and age at first egg (CV-AFEexp), and the effect of genetically increasing the numbers of yellow follicles at the onset of lay. 2. The results suggest that TEP in broiler breeders is very sensitive to changes in body weight gain during the first 10 weeks of the production period and body weight at the start of egg production, whereas changes in body weight gain after peak rate of lay showed only minor effects on TEP. Increasing CV-IBWexp was associated with a linear decrease in the mean and increased variability of TEP. 3. Decreasing AFEexp was negatively associated with TEP, whereas higher CV-AFEexp increased variability of TEP and had a trivial affect on the mean. 4. Results of the simulation suggested that reducing ovarian yellow follicle numbers by means of genetic selection could reduce the degree of feed restriction currently used in broiler breeder commercial stocks while maintaining total egg production. Higher numbers of yellow follicles associated with selection for higher growth rate would not result in lower egg production if the body weight target was maintained at the currently recommended commercial level and the effect on TEP of increasing the target in proportion to potential body weight may be relatively small.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Alvarez
- Roslin Institute (Edinburgh) and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, UK
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40
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Gibson L, Wilson J, Davis A. Impact of Feeding Program After Light Stimulation Through Early Lay on the Reproductive Performance of Broiler Breeder Hens. Poult Sci 2008; 87:2098-106. [DOI: 10.3382/ps.2007-00523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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41
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Khetani TL, Nkukwana TT, Chimonyo M, Muchenje V. Effect of quantitative feed restriction on broiler performance. Trop Anim Health Prod 2008; 41:379-84. [PMID: 18595000 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-008-9200-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2008] [Accepted: 06/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the current study was to determine the effect of quantitative feed restriction on the performance of broilers. A total of 270 unsexed broilers were randomly allocated to three treatments: with no feed restriction (T1), one week (T2) and two (T3) weeks of feed restriction from 22 days of age and then fed ad libitum until the age of 42 days. Treatments were replicated three times with 30 birds per replicate. Birds were fed with starter, grower and finisher diets. The feed consumed and body weights were recorded every week from the third to the sixth week. The average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI) and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) were computed for each week. At Week 6, body weights of T3 birds were similar (P>0.05) to those of T1 and T2 birds. There were also no treatment effects on the ADG at Week 6. In addition, no treatment effects (P>0.05) were observed on ADFI at each stage of growth. Since ADFI and FCR were similar among the three groups, it was concluded that feed restriction by limiting the time to eat was not successful. There was also no evidence of compensatory growth in the restricted groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- T L Khetani
- Department of Livestock and Pasture Science, University of Fort Hare, P. Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape, Republic of South Africa
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42
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Energy Restriction in Broiler Breeders during Rearing and Laying Periods and its Influence on Body Weight Gain, Conversion Efficiency of Nutrients, Egg Production and Hatchability. J Poult Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.2141/jpsa.45.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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43
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de Beer M, Rosebrough RW, Russell BA, Poch SM, Richards MP, Coon CN. An Examination of the Role of Feeding Regimens in Regulating Metabolism During the Broiler Breeder Grower Period. 1. Hepatic Lipid Metabolism. Poult Sci 2007; 86:1726-38. [PMID: 17626819 DOI: 10.1093/ps/86.8.1726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A trial was conducted to determine the effects of feeding regimens on hepatic lipid metabolism in 16-wk-old broiler breeder pullets. A flock of 350 Cobb 500 breeder pullets was divided into 2 at 4 wk of age and fed either every day (ED) or skip-a-day (SKIP) from 4 to 16 wk of age. Total feed intake did not differ between the 2 groups. At 112 d, 52 randomly selected ED-fed pullets, and 76 SKIP-fed pullets were individually caged and fed a 74-g (ED) or 148-g (SKIP) meal. Four pullets from each group were killed at intervals after feeding and livers were collected, weighed, and snap-frozen for determination of lipogenic gene expression. Total RNA was isolated from livers using Trizol reagent and then quantitatively measured by noting the optical density 260:280 ratio and qualitatively measured by gel electrophoresis. The expression of certain regulatory genes in metabolism [acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase; fatty acid synthase; malic enzyme (MAE); isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICDH); and aspartate aminotransferase (AAT)] were determined by real-time reverse-transcription PCR. Remaining liver portions were analyzed for enzyme activity of MAE, ICDH, and AAT as well as glycogen and lipid contents. Liver weight was higher in SKIP than in ED birds. Feeding caused dramatic increases in liver weight, glycogen, and lipids of SKIP birds. Expression of acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase, FAS, and MAE genes were increased in SKIP birds 12 and 24 h after feeding, with the increases in MAE expression from 0 to 24 h after feeding being of the greatest magnitude. In contrast, SKIP decreased ICDH and AAT gene expression, which parallels findings noted in fasting-refeeding experiments conducted with much younger birds. Skip-a-day feeding resulted in far greater changes in gene expression compared with ED, which was indicative of the inconsistent supply of nutrients in such regimens. Enzyme activity of MAE, ICDH, and AAT was reflective of noted changes in gene expression. In summary, the feeding regimen greatly affected hepatic gene expression in breeder pullets.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de Beer
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville 72701, USA
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44
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Abstract
A stochastic model was developed to simulate the egg production of broiler breeders in response to changes in BW. The first step involved the construction of a diagram incorporating dependent and independent variables and their relationships to ovulation rate and egg production from 8 equations based on experimental results. The model was based on existing experimental data, and stochastic processes were invoked for 4 input parameters. Egg production curves and total egg production were simulated using inputs from a management manual, commercial trial data, and experimental results and were compared with actual rates of lay. The correlations between observed and predicted egg production were high (R(2) = 0.93 to 0.98). The assumptions made in developing the model were described and gaps in biological knowledge were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Alvarez
- Roslin Institute (Edinburgh), Midlothian, EH25 9PS, United Kingdom
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45
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Yang KT, Lin CY, Huang HL, Liou JS, Chien CY, Wu CP, Huang CW, Ou BR, Chen CF, Lee YP, Lin EC, Tang PC, Lee WC, Ding ST, Cheng WTK, Huang MC. Expressed transcripts associated with high rates of egg production in chicken ovarian follicles. Mol Cell Probes 2007; 22:47-54. [PMID: 17692502 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2007.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2006] [Revised: 04/06/2007] [Accepted: 06/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to characterize differentially expressed transcripts associated with varying rates of egg production in Taiwan country chickens. Ovarian follicles were isolated from two strains of chicken which showed low (B) or high (L2) rates of egg production, then processed for RNA extraction and cDNA library construction. Three thousand and eight forty clones were randomly selected from the cDNA library and amplified by PCR, then used in microarray analysis. Differentially expressed transcripts (P<0.05, log(2)> or = 1.75) were sequenced, and aligned using GenBank. This analysis revealed 20 non-redundant sequences which corresponded to known transcripts. Eight transcripts were expressed at a higher level in ovarian tissue prepared from chicken strain B, and 12 transcripts were expressed at a higher level in L2 birds. These differential patterns of expression were confirmed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. We show that transcripts of cyclin B2 (cycB2), ferritin heavy polypeptide 1 (FTH1), Gag-Pol polyprotein, thymosin beta4 (TB4) and elongation factor 1 alpha1 (EEF1A1) were enriched in B strain ovarian follicles. In contrast, thioredoxin (TXN), acetyl-CoA dehydrogenase long chain (ACADL), inhibitor of growth family member 4 (ING4) and annexin II (ANXA2) were expressed in at higher levels in the L2 strain. We suggest that our approach may lead to the isolation of effective molecular markers that can be used in selection programs in Taiwan country chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- K T Yang
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
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46
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Hocking PM, Rutherford KMD, Picard M. Comparison of time-based frequencies, fractal analysis and T-patterns for assessing behavioural changes in broiler breeders fed on two diets at two levels of feed restriction: A case study. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2006.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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47
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Hocking PM. High-fibre pelleted rations decrease water intake but do not improve physiological indexes of welfare in food-restricted female broiler breeders. Br Poult Sci 2007; 47:19-23. [PMID: 16546792 DOI: 10.1080/00071660500468041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
1. A 3x2 factorial experiment was conducted with three diets and two lines of broiler breeder females to evaluate the contribution of low-energy rations for improving the welfare of feed-restricted birds during rearing. Experimental diets were fed from 6 to 16 weeks of age and were created by diluting a conventional grower (Control) ration containing 11.0 MJ ME/kg with 200 (8.8 MJ ME/kg) or 400 (6.6 MJ ME/kg) g oat hulls/kg using Optimoist to facilitate the pelleting process. Welfare was assessed by changes in behaviour and physiological variables at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age. Birds were fed restricted quantities of feed to meet recommended body weight targets. 2. There was a decrease in the proportion of observations of drinking and an increase of preening in birds fed on the two experimental diets compared with the control. There was a linear decrease in litter moisture and the number of litter changes with increasing diet dilution, and water intake at 12 weeks was higher in the control than in the two experimental diets. There were no changes in physiological indexes of welfare (heterophil-lymphocyte ratio, plasma corticosterone and antibody responses) associated with the dietary treatments. 3. There were no important differences in the growth, behaviour or physiological responses to dietary treatment between the two lines of broiler breeders. Changes with age were similar to those reported in other experiments. 4. It was concluded that low-energy pelleted diets would improve litter conditions but not improve indexes of welfare in feed-restricted broiler breeders.
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Hocking PM, Jones EKM, Picard M. Assessing the welfare consequences of providing litter for feed-restricted broiler breeders. Br Poult Sci 2006; 46:545-52. [PMID: 16359106 DOI: 10.1080/00071660500254813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
1. Broiler breeder females were fed restricted allocations of a standard wheat-soy ration to meet target body weights. They were housed on raised plastic slotted floors (S) or wood shavings litter (L) from hatch to 8 weeks when each pen of 12 birds was transferred to another pen in the same block in a 2 x 2 factorial experiment (LL, LS, SL and SS). Measures of bird welfare were taken at 4 weeks of age, and at 9 and 10 weeks following transfer to the new pens. 2. At 4 weeks of age, birds reared on S spent more time standing, pecking the feeder, the wall and other birds and less time pecking the floor compared with those on L. Gentle feather pecks, strong feather pecks and strong feather pulls were more common in S than L. 3. Mean body weight was higher and coefficient of variation lower in birds on L than S at the end of the experiment. Feather loss and damage scores at 10 weeks were higher for birds reared from hatch to 8 weeks on S. 4. Birds that were reared on S continued to peck more at the pen walls after transfer to new pens but there was no other carry-over effect on behaviour. Birds on S at 9 and 10 weeks pecked more at the walls and less often at the floor, and rested less often. There was more feather pecking on S than on L in the second week post transfer. 5. Tonic immobility was greater and plasma corticosterone concentrations were lower at the end of the experiment in birds on L than S at 9 and 10 weeks of age. The heterophil-lymphocyte ratio was similar between treatments at 4 weeks and after the birds were moved to a new pen. 6. The results are consistent with the view that litter and wall pecking has de-arousing properties and that this activity is re-directed foraging that diminishes the stress of feed restriction.
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49
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Sun JM, Richards MP, Rosebrough RW, Ashwell CM, McMurtry JP, Coon CN. The relationship of body composition, feed intake, and metabolic hormones for broiler breeder females. Poult Sci 2006; 85:1173-84. [PMID: 16830857 DOI: 10.1093/ps/85.7.1173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Three hundred twenty Cobb 500 broiler breeder pullets at 21 wk of age were selected from a flock fed according to Cobb Breeder Management Guide specifications. One hundred sixty pullets at 21 wk of age were switched to ad libitum feeding, and the remaining 160 pullets continued to be control-fed. The pullets were photostimulated at 22 wk and maintained until 36.5 wk. Plasma samples were obtained, BW was determined, and hens were killed for determination of body composition at the following periods: 24 h prior to photostimulation, 2.5 wk after photostimulation, 24 h after first egg, and 36.5 wk following peak egg production. Compared with ad libitum-fed breeders, the restricted breeders had a higher percentage carcass protein and lower percentage carcass fat at all sampling periods. Total egg numbers were greater, and abnormal eggs were less for the restricted pullets compared with the ad libitum-fed pullets at 36.5 wk. Carcass percentage fat of ad libitum-fed pullets was positively related to plasma glucagon, insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II), and 17beta-estradiol but negatively related to plasma insulin, insulin/glucagon M ratio, insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3). Carcass percentage fat of feed-restricted pullets was negatively related to IGF-I, IGF-II, and T4. The T4 was the most important hormone for predicting the percentage carcass fat in ad libitum-fed pullets, and IGF-I was the most important hormone for predicting the percentage carcass fat in feed-restricted pullets. The percentage carcass protein for ad libitum-fed breeders was positively correlated to IGF-I, T4, T3, insulin/glucagon M ratio, and insulin. Carcass percentage protein for feed-restricted breeders was positively correlated to IGF-I, IGF-II, T4, and glucagon. Stepwise regressions for predicting percentage carcass protein for breeders fed by both systems shows that T3 and IGF-I concentrations were the most important for ad libitum-fed breeders, whereas IGF-II and T4 were best for feed-restricted breeders. The hormone status of breeders may be a key indicator to help predict the body composition and thus support management decisions for maintaining optimum production.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Sun
- USDA, ARS, Growth Biology Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
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50
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Métayer S, Tesseraud S, Cassy S, Taouis M, Williams J, Picard M, Rideau N. Is There Peripheral or Ovarian Insulin Action Alteration in Broiler Breeder Hens Fed ad Libitum? Poult Sci 2006; 85:1098-103. [PMID: 16776481 DOI: 10.1093/ps/85.6.1098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether a change in peripheral glucose homeostasis, a local change in the insulin-related ovarian regulatory system, or both occurred in ad libitum-fed broiler breeder hens compared with feed-restricted counterparts. Feed-restricted (R, from 5 to 16 wk of age) and ad libitum-fed (A) hens from a standard commercial line (S) and an experimental dwarf genotype (E) were studied. Basal and stimulated plasma insulin and glucose concentrations were measured during the prebreeding and laying periods. In the basal state (after 16 h fasting) plasma glucose concentrations were significantly lower in SA chickens (-5% at 17 wk, -7.5% at 32 wk) compared with EA, SR, and ER chickens, with no difference in plasma insulin concentrations (n = 16). In 17-wk-old SA birds, 30 min after oral glucose loading, plasma glucose concentrations increased significantly compared with the basal state and were also significantly lower as compared with SR but did not differ significantly from EA and ER. Plasma insulin concentrations did not differ significantly between genotypes or regimens (n = 16). A potential modification of intracellular mediators involved in the regulation of cell growth and survival in small follicles that were overrecruited in SA compared with SR was also investigated in SA and SR hens at 32 wk. There was no effect of food restriction in phospho-Akt, Akt, phospho-ERK, and phospho-S6 in the small white ovarian follicles (n = 6) in the basal state and after 30 min of refeeding. In conclusion, the present study does not demonstrate any evidence of glucose intolerance during the prebreeding period, specific change in the ovarian small follicle insulin signalling pathway, or both, in laying broiler breeders fed ad libitum compared with feed-restricted hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Métayer
- Regulation du Métabolisme des Oiseaux, Station de Recherches Avicoles, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Centre de Tours-Nouzilly, France
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