Metabolic and cardiovascular diseases in poultry: role of dietary lipids

Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses Reveal the Attenuating Role of Cordycepin and Cordyceps militaris Extract on Acute Liver Injury Induced by LPS in Piglets

Cordyceps militaris extract (CME) contains many bioactive compounds, mainly cordycepin (CPN). This study aimed to investigate the possible mechanisms underlying the amelioration of LPS-induced acute liver injury in piglets by CME or CPN supplementation using multi-omics analysis. Twenty-four weaned piglets were randomly distributed into 4 groups (n = 6): the control and LPS groups were fed basal diets; the CPN + LPS (CPN-LPS) and CME + LPS (CME-LPS) groups were fed the basal diets supplemented with CME or CPN. The results showed that CPN or CME supplementation significantly decreased the C-reactive protein level (p < 0.05) and improved liver tissue pathology to prevent acute liver injury after LPS treatment. Compared with LPS, the transcriptomic analysis indicated that CPN supplementation significantly downregulated cell adhesion molecules, while CME supplementation significantly downregulated inflammatory mediator regulation of TRP channels, complement and coagulation cascades and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. The metabolomic results showed that CPN or CME supplementation significantly reduced disease biomarker of bicyclo-prostaglandin E2, and increased levels of deoxyinosine and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (p < 0.05). The combined transcriptome and metabolome helped identify two metabolites PC 34:2 and PC 36:0, which may be associated with the restoration of liver cell morphology. In conclusion, CPN and CME could attenuate LPS-induced acute liver injury by regulating immune-related genes and metabolites. This study elucidates the potential protective mechanism of CPN or CME supplementation against acute liver injury.

Sex-specific effects of dietary restriction on physiological variables in Japanese quails

Nutritional limitation is a common phenomenon in nature that leads to trade-offs among processes competing for limited resources. These trade-offs are mediated by changes in physiological traits such as growth factors and circulating lipids. However, studies addressing the sex-specific effect of nutritional deficiency on these physiological variables are limited in birds. We used dietary restriction to mimic the depletion of resources to various degrees and investigated sex-specific effects on circulating levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and triglycerides in Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) subjected to ad libitum, 20%, 30% or 40% restriction of their daily requirement, for 2 weeks. We also explored the association of both physiological variables with body mass and egg production. While dietary restriction showed no effects on circulating IGF-1, this hormone exhibited a marked sexual difference, with females having 64.7% higher IGF-1 levels than males. Dietary restriction significantly reduced plasma triglyceride levels in both sexes. Females showed more than six-fold higher triglyceride levels than males. Triglyceride levels were positively associated with body mass in females while showed not association in males. Overall, our findings revealed sex-specific expression of physiological variables under dietary restriction conditions, which coincide with body size.

In Vitro Antioxidant Activities of Plant Polyphenol Extracts and Their Combined Effect with Flaxseed on Raw and Cooked Breast Muscle Fatty Acid Content, Lipid Health Indices and Oxidative Stability in Slow-Growing Sasso Chickens

Adding flaxseed was found to decrease oxidative stability in feed and increase the antioxidant needs of chicken. This has also been associated with a decrease in the nutritional value and oxidative stability of meat if sufficient dietary antioxidants are not included. Furthermore, dietary flaxseed has been explored in fast-growing chickens as such studies are limited with slow-growing chickens. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of feeding plant polyphenol extracts as an antioxidant alongside flaxseed on fatty acid content, oxidative stability, and lipid health indices in breast muscle of slow-growing Sasso T451A dual-purpose chicken. A total of 126 chickens assigned to six groups (seven replicates of three) were fed on NC (control and no antioxidants), FS (75 g flaxseed and no antioxidants), VE8 (75 g flaxseed and 800 mg vitamin E), TS8 (75 g flaxseed and 800 mg Thymus schimperi), DA8 (75 g flaxseed and 800 mg Dodonaea angustifolia) and CD8 (75 g flaxseed and 800 mg Curcuma domestica) extract per kg diet. Feeding on CD8 and VE8 in raw and TS8, CD8 and VE8 diets in cooked breast muscle increased (p < 0.05) the C22:6n − 3 (DHA) and C20:5n − 3 (EPA) contents compared to the FS diet. Feeding FS increased (p < 0.05) the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in breast muscle, whereas TS8 in cooked and raw and CD8 and DA8 diets in raw breast muscle decreased it (p < 0.05). No added benefit was observed in feeding VE8 over plant extracts in terms of improving fatty acid composition and lipid health indices and reducing lipid oxidation in breast meat.

Hatching egg polyunsaturated fatty acids and the broiler chick

Transgenerational effects of certain nutrients such as essential fatty acids are gaining increased attention in the field of human medicine and animal sciences as a new tool to improve health and animal performance during perinatal life. Omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids are denoted by the position of the first double bond from methyl end of the hydrocarbon chain. Alpha-linolenic acid (18:3 n-3) and linoleic acid (18:2 n-6) are essential n-3 and n-6 fatty acids and cannot be synthesized by the vertebrates including chickens. Alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid are the parent fatty acids of long chain (> 20–22C) n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5 n-3, EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (22:5 n-3/or 22:5 n-6, DPA), docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 n-3, DHA) and arachidonic acid (20:4 n-6). As components of cell membrane phospholipids, PUFA serves as precursors of eicosanoids, act as ligands for membrane receptors and transcription factors that regulate gene expression and are pivotal for normal chick growth and development. Considering the role of egg lipids as the sole source of essential fatty acids to the hatchling, dietary deficiencies or inadequate in ovo supply may have repercussions in tissue PUFA incorporation, lipid metabolism, chick growth and development during pre and early post-hatch period. This review focus on studies showing how maternal dietary n-3 or n-6 fatty acids can lead to remodeling of long chain n-3 and n-6 PUFA in the hatching egg and progeny chick tissue phospholipid molecular species and its impact on chick growth and PUFA metabolism during early life.

Gradually Increasing Vitamin E Dose Allows Increasing Dietary Polyunsaturation Level While Maintaining the Oxidation Status of Lipids and Proteins in Chicken Breast Muscle

Feeding broilers diets high in n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) increases their incorporation into the meat but it may compromise meat quality due to oxidation of lipids and protein. Increased dietary vitamin E (vE) level downregulates this process, but its excessive level might exceed the physiological requirements for the maintenance of redox balance. This study investigated the sensory characteristics and oxidative status of meat from chickens fed diets supplemented with fish oil (FO) with or without gradually increasing doses of vE. The meat samples were obtained from a total of 27 female broilers of Ross 308 strain (9 birds per each of 3 dietary treatments), which were housed according to the standard management practice for commercial chicken houses over a period of 36 days. Chickens were fed diets containing 80 g/kg of supplemental fat, but the diets differed in fat composition; control diet (80 g/kg diet beef tallow as supplemental fat and a basal vE dose); 40 IU of dl-α-tocopheryl acetate; diet containing mixture of FO and beef tallow as supplemental fat (50:30 w/w g/kg diet) and a basal vE dose (E1), or diet (E2) as diet E1 but with gradually increasing vE dose (120/240 IU/kg diet fed between days 8–21 and days 22–36, respectively). The highest sensory quality and the lowest oxidative status of meat was found in the control chickens. FO decreased the sensory quality of the meat and increased lipid oxidation as well it had an impact on the lipid profile in muscle tissue (PUFA, n-3 ALA, EPA, DHA). Administration of a graded vE dose increased the sensory quality of the meat and did not limit lipid oxidation but maintained protein oxidation balance.

Parental dietary arachidonic acid altered serum fatty acid profile, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism in domestic pigeons (Columba livia)

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of dietary arachidonic acid on serum fatty acid profile, hepatic antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism in pigeon squabs by supplementing arachidonic acid in their parental diets. A completely randomized design was conducted consisting of control group, 0.05% dietary arachidonic acid supplementation group, 0.1% dietary arachidonic acid supplementation group, and 0.2% dietary arachidonic acid supplementation group. Six randomly selected squabs from each group were sampled on Day 21 post-hatch. Results indicated that moderate level (0.05%) of arachidonic acid in parental diets for pigeon squabs improved lipid metabolism via regulation on serum lipid profile and fatty acid composition and tended to reduce hepatic lipid accumulation in the premise of negligible damage to antioxidant status. Unfortunately, excessive parental supplementation of dietary arachidonic acid might be harmful to squab health. The regulatory effects of arachidonic acid were sensitive to the arachidonic acid doses. In conclusion, parental dietary arachidonic acid at 0.05% could be beneficial for squabs to maintain health as reflective aspects in ameliorative serum lipid profile, fatty acid composition, and reduced hepatic lipid accumulation.

Impact of high dietary energy on obesity and oxidative stress in domestic pigeons

Obesity is associated with increased risk of oxidative stress in humans and laboratory animals but information regarding obesity-induced oxidative stress in birds is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the influence of high-energy diets (HED) on obesity and oxidative stress in domestic pigeons. Forty-five adult clinically healthy-domestic male pigeons were randomly assigned to three equal dietary groups including low (2,850 kcal/kg), medium (3,150 kcal/kg) and high (3,450 kcal/kg) energy diets (named low energy diet, medium-energy diet and HED, respectively). All birds received formulated diets for 60 consecutive days. Several parameters such as feed intake, body weight (BW), average weight gain (AWG) and total weight gain were determined. Serum concentrations of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-, low- and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterols, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated at days 0, 30 and 60; and serum levels of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and cortisol were also measured at day 60. On day 60, five pigeons from each group were randomly euthanized and some parameters such as weight and relative weight of liver, breast muscle, and abdominal fat were determined. Furthermore, hepatic total fat content was also evaluated. BW, AWG, total weight, and circulating TG, TC, ALT, AST, ALP, MDA and cortisol in HED were significantly higher than other groups. Serum T-AOC in HED was significantly lower than the other groups. In conclusion, this study showed that increasing dietary energy up to 3,450 kcal/kg in pigeons led to obesity and oxidative stress in them. Accordingly, it could be stated that HED and obesity induce oxidative stress in pigeon and controlling the dietary energy intake of pigeons is necessary to prevent oxidative stress in them.

The Effect of Dietary Camelina sativa Oil or Cake in the Diets of Broiler Chickens on Growth Performance, Fatty Acid Profile, and Sensory Quality of Meat

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of supplementing the diets of broiler chickens with Camelina sativa oil or cake as a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on their growth performance, fatty acid profile, and sensory quality of meat. The 456 Ross 308 broilers aged 21-42 days were divided into 3 groups with 4 replicates of 38 birds in each. Chickens in the control group I (CTR) were fed a standard grower-finisher feed mixture containing 60 g/kg rapeseed oil. The experimental components, C. sativa oil-CSO (group II) or cake-CSC (group III), were included in a diet based on wheat and soybean at 40 and 100 g/kg, respectively. The use of Camelina oil and cake as feed components did not have a significant effect on the growth performance of the chickens. Analysis of the fatty acid profile in the lipids of the breast muscles showed that Camelina oil and cake reduced the content of monounsaturated fatty acids (p < 0.05) but increased the content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially α-linolenic acid (C18:3) (p < 0.01). Furthermore, both components reduced the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFAs in the breast muscles (p < 0.01). Sensory analysis revealed that Camelina oil had a beneficial effect on meat juiciness, whereas Camelina cake slightly worsened the flavor and tastiness of the meat. In conclusion, supplementing the diet of broiler chickens with Camelina oil or cake can be an efficient method for modifying the fatty acid profile of the meat lipids in a beneficial way, without any negative impact on the growth performance of the chickens. According to the dietetic recommendations for humans, broiler chicken meat with a higher level of PUFA n-3 can be a good alternative source of these fatty acids in the human diet. Furthermore, Camelina oil improved the juiciness of breast meat.

The potential of acetylsalicylic acid and vitamin E in modulating inflammatory cascades in chickens under lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation

Distinct enzymes, including cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2), lipoxygenase (LOXs), and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP450), produce different stress mediators and mediate inflammation in birds. Bioactive agents such as acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and vitamin E (vE) may affect enzyme activities and could be used in poultry production to control the magnitude of acute phase inflammation. Here, we characterized COX, LOX, and CYP450 mRNA expression levels in chicken immune tissues in response to Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge and investigated whether ASA and vE could alter gene expression. Additionally, for the first time in chickens, we evaluated oxygen consumption by platelet mitochondria as a biomarker of mitochondria function in response to ASA- and vE. LPS challenge compromised bird growth rates, but neither dietary ASA nor vE significantly ameliorated this effect; however, gradually increasing dietary vE levels were more effective than basal levels. ASA regulated arachidonic acid metabolism, providing an eicosanoid synthesis substrate, whereas gradually increasing vE levels evoked aspirin resistance during challenge. Gene expression in immune tissues was highly variable, indicating a complex regulatory network controlling inflammatory pathways. However, unlike COX-1, COX-2 and CYP450 exhibited increased mRNA expression in some cases, suggesting an initiation of novel anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving signals during challenge. Measuring oxygen consumption rate, we revealed that neither the ASA nor vE levels applied here exerted toxic effects on platelet mitochondria.

Carrier oils in dermatology

Wounds are a common medical infliction. With the increase in microbial resistance and a shift of interest towards complementary medicines, essential oils have been shown to be beneficial in suppressing microbial growth. However, in practice, essential oils are more often diluted into a base due to the risk of topical adverse effects, such as dermatitis. There is a lack of collated evidence-based information on toxicity and efficacy of carrier oils. The current information on the subject matter is restricted to generic, aroma-therapeutic books and pamphlets, based on anecdotal evidence rather than an experimental approach. Therefore, this review aimed at identifying the recommended carrier oils used in dermatology and thereafter collating the scientific evidence to support the use of carrier oils together with essential oils recommended for dermatological use. Aloe vera gel had multiple studies demonstrating the ability to enhance wound healing; however, several other carrier oils have been largely neglected. It was observed that the extracts for certain plant species had been used to justify the use of the carrier oils of the same plant species. This is an inaccurate cross assumption due to the difference in chemical composition and biological activities. Lastly, despite these carrier oils being recommended as a base for essential oils, very little data was found on the interactive profile of the carrier oil with the essential oil. This review provides a platform for further studies, especially if essential oils are to receive credence in the scientific field.

Active transport of glucose across the jejunal epithelium decreases with age in broiler chickens

Intestinal glucose absorption varies with growth; however, the dynamics of these variations has not been yet fully elucidated in broiler chickens. The present study aimed to compare jejunal glucose uptake and maltose digestion in broilers of 2 different ages, i.e., 1- vs. 5 wk old. Oral D-maltose gavage, everted sac, and Ussing chamber experiments were carried out to investigate intestinal glucose absorption and mRNA expression of glucose-transport-related genes as well as jejunal maltase activity. Upon gavage, glucose concentrations peaked at 10 min post-administration in 1-wk-old chicks, while they peaked at 40 min in 5-wk-old chickens. Glucose concentrations at 10 min were significantly higher in the 1-wk-old chicks (P = 0.010). Using the everted sacs experimental setup, 5 intestinal regions i.e., duodenum, proximal jejunum, distal jejunum, proximal ileum, and distal ileum, were targeted to examine D-maltose digestion and glucose transport across the intestinal mucosa. In the distal and proximal ileum, glucose concentrations were found to be significantly higher in the serosal compartment of the 1-wk-old chicks upon incubation with D-maltose (25 mM) (P < 0.05), while in the mucosal compartment the levels were significantly higher in the 5-wk-old chickens (P < 0.05). An Ussing chamber setup was employed to measure glucose-induced short-circuit current (ΔIsc) in the mucosal epithelium of the jejunum. In response to the addition of D-maltose (10 mM) into the mucosal compartment, ΔIsc was significantly higher in the 1-wk-old chicks (P = 0.018). Furthermore, no variations in jejunal maltase activity were observed between the 2 age groups. While jejunal glucose absorption was lower in the 5-wk-old chickens, the mRNA expression levels of jejunal SGLT1, GLUT2, and Na+/K+-ATPase did not show any significant differences between the 2 age groups. Our results suggest that the active transport of glucose across the jejunal epithelium decreases upon growth in broiler chickens but is not accompanied by any variations in maltase activity or in the expression of glucose-absorption-related genes.

Nutrient Profiles of Wild and Captive Attwater's and Greater Prairie-Chicken Eggs

We determined reference levels of minerals, fatty acids, and fat-soluble micronutrients in eggs from wild Attwater's Tympanuchus cupido attwateri and two (Minnesota, Nebraska) greater prairie-chicken T. c. pinnatus populations for comparison with eggs produced by captive Attwater's prairie-chickens to help guide formulation and evaluation of captive diets. Levels of all minerals found in wild Attwater's prairie-chicken eggs were similar to those in at least one of the two greater prairie-chicken populations, but these levels frequently differed between the two greater prairie-chicken populations. Ratios for n-6:n-3 fatty acids were &gt;3 times higher for Minnesota greater prairie-chickens, which had more access to waste grain than Attwater's or Nebraska greater prairie-chickens. Captive eggs had n-6:n-3 ratios 6.7 times the pooled wild samples, while wild eggs had higher levels of anhydrolutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and total carotenoids. More magnesium, zinc, and manganese were observed in wild eggs compared with those produced in captivity. Flaxseed was added to the captive breeder diet in an attempt to lower egg n-6:n-3 ratios, along with additional carotenoids found in marigold extract. These dietary modifications successfully lowered the n-6:n-3 ratio by 46%, but this ratio was still 3.6 times higher in captive eggs, consistent with the grain-based formulation of the breeder diet. Carotenoid additions successfully raised total carotenoids, but increases were primarily for lutein and not zeaxanthin or β-carotene as intended. Variability in egg nutrient composition among the three wild populations suggests that some tolerance exists in maternal diets, but impacts to offspring fitness are unknown. Given the purported importance of maternal nutrition to fitness of embryos and neonate chicks, we suggest additional research is needed to quantify the influence of key nutrient levels on offspring fitness for both captive and wild populations.

Fatty acid profiles of great tit (Parus major) eggs differ between urban and rural habitats, but not between coniferous and deciduous forests

Early-life nutrition is an important determinant of both short- and long-term performance and fitness. The avian embryo develops within an enclosed package of nutrients, of which fatty acids (FA) are essential for many aspects of development. The FA composition of yolk depends on maternal nutrition and condition prior to egg formation, which may be affected by the external environment. To test if maternal environment affects yolk FA composition, we investigated whether the FA composition of great tit (Parus major) egg yolks differed between urban and rural habitats, and between deciduous and coniferous habitats. The results reveal differences in FA composition between eggs laid in urban and rural habitats, but not between eggs from the coniferous and deciduous habitats. To a large extent, this difference likely reflects dietary differences associated with urban habitats rather than dominating vegetation type. Specifically, urban yolks contained lower proportions of both ω-3 and ω-6 polyunsaturated FAs (PUFA), which are important for chick development. We also found a positive association between the proportion of saturated fatty acids and laying date, and a negative association between the proportion of ω-6 PUFA and clutch size. Given that urbanization is expanding rapidly, future studies should investigate whether factors such as anthropogenic food in the urban environment underlie these differences and whether they impair chick development.

Can breeder reproductive status, performance and egg quality be enhanced by supplementation and transition of n-3 fatty acids?

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of n-3 fatty acid (FA) supplemented diets on breeder performance, productivity and egg quality. Breeders (n = 480) were fed the supplemented diet from 18 weeks onwards; the inclusion level of n-3 FA was increased from 1.5% to 3.0% from 34 weeks of age onwards until 48 weeks of age. Ross-308 broiler breeders (n = 480) were fed one of four different diets: a basal diet rich in n-6 FA (control diet) or one of three diets rich in n-3 FA. For the n-3 FA diets, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5 n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6 n-3) were fed to the broiler breeders at different ratios formulated to obtain EPA/DHA ratios of 1/1, 1/2 or 2/1. Differences in performance, reproduction and egg quality parameters due to n-3 supplementation were noted more for the 1.5% followed by the 3.0% fed broilers than their 1.5% supplemented counterparts. Egg weight (p < 0.001) and egg mass (p = 0.003) were significantly lower and feed conversion (p = 0.008) significantly higher for the n-3 FA (at 3.0% inclusion level) fed broilers compared to the control group. For the EPA- and DHA-fed breeders, a higher proportional abdominal fat percentage (p = 0.025) and proportional albumen weight (%) (p = 0.041) were found respectively. Dietary treatments did not affect reproduction. It can be concluded that the results of the present experiment indicate no significant differences between treatments at 1.5% inclusion levels. However, increasing this level to 3.0% is not recommended due to the rather negative effects on the measured parameters. It should be further investigated whether these adverse effects were obtained due to (i) the higher supplementation level, (ii) combining a supplementation level of 1.5% with 3% or (iii) the duration of supplementation.

Nutrition and metabolism in poultry: role of lipids in early diet

Modern strains of broiler chickens are selected for fast growth and are marketed anywhere from 36 to 49 days after a 21-day incubational period. For a viable healthy chick, all the necessary nutrients required for growth and development must be provided by the hen through the fertilized egg. The current feeding strategies for improved growth, health and productivity are targeted towards chicks after hatching. Considering the fact that developing chick embryo spends over 30 % of its total life span inside the hatching egg relying on nutrients deposited by the breeder hen, investigations on nutritional needs during pre-hatch period will improve embryonic health, hatchability and chick viability. In this context, investigations on hatching egg lipid quality is of utmost importance because, during incubation, egg fat is the major source of energy and sole source of essential omega-6 (n-6) and omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids to the chick embryo. Due to the unique roles of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids in growth, immune health, and development of central nervous system, this review will focus on the role of early exposure to essential fatty acids through maternal diet and hatching egg and its impact on progeny in meat-type broiler chickens.

Transgenerational epigenetics: the role of maternal effects in cardiovascular development

Transgenerational epigenetics, the study of non-genetic transfer of information from one generation to the next, has gained much attention in the past few decades due to the fact that, in many instances, epigenetic processes outweigh direct genetic processes in the manifestation of aberrant phenotypes across several generations. Maternal effects, or the influences of maternal environment, phenotype, and/or genotype on offsprings' phenotypes, independently of the offsprings' genotypes, are a subcategory of transgenerational epigenetics. Due to the intimate role of the mother during early development in animals, there is much interest in investigating the means by which maternal effects can shape the individual. Maternal effects are responsible for cellular organization, determination of the body axis, initiation and maturation of organ systems, and physiological performance of a wide variety of species and biological systems. The cardiovascular system is the first to become functional and can significantly influence the development of other organ systems. Thus, it is important to elucidate the role of maternal effects in cardiovascular development, and to understand its impact on adult cardiovascular health. Topics to be addressed include: (1) how and when do maternal effects change the developmental trajectory of the cardiovascular system to permanently alter the adult's cardiovascular phenotype, (2) what molecular mechanisms have been associated with maternally induced cardiovascular phenotypes, and (3) what are the evolutionary implications of maternally mediated changes in cardiovascular phenotype?

Effect of the ratio of dietary n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid on broiler breeder performance, egg quality, and yolk fatty acid composition at different breeder ages

When added to the feed of broiler breeder hens, dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (FA) can be incorporated into the yolk and therefore become available to the progeny during their early development. The mechanism involved in lipid metabolism and deposition in the egg may be influenced by breeder age. Before the effect of an elevated concentration of certain polyunsaturated FA on the embryo can be investigated, the effect at breeder level and egg quality must be further assessed. The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the effects of dietary n-6/n-3 ratios and dietary eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5 n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6 n-3) ratios, provided to broiler breeder hens, in terms of their zoo technical performance, egg quality, and yolk FA composition. Starting at 6 wk of age, 640 Ross-308 broiler breeder hens were fed 1 of 4 different diets. The control diet was a basal diet, rich in n-6 FA. The 3 other diets were enriched in n-3 FA, formulated to obtain a different EPA/DHA ratio of 1/1 (EPA = DHA), 1/2 (DHA), or 2/1 (EPA). In fact, after analysis the EPA/DHA ratio was 0.8, 0.4, or 2.1, respectively. Dietary EPA and DHA addition did not affect the performance of the breeder hens, except for egg weight. Egg weight was lower (P < 0.001) for all n-3 treatments. Dietary EPA improved number of eggs laid in the first 2 wk of the production cycle (P = 0.029). The absolute and relative yolk weight of eggs laid by EPA = DHA fed hens was lowest (P = 0.004 and P = 0.025, respectively). The EPA and DHA concentrations in the yolk were highly dependent on dietary EPA and DHA concentrations with a regression coefficient equal to 0.89. It can be concluded that dietary EPA and DHA can be incorporated in the breeder egg yolk to become available for the developing embryo, without compromising the performance and egg quality of the flock.

Characterization and biological effects of di-hydroxylated compounds deriving from the lipoxygenation of ALA

We have recently described a di-hydroxylated compound called protectin DX (PDX) which derives from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) by double lipoxygenation. PDX exhibits anti-aggregatory and anti-inflammatory properties, that are also exhibited by similar molecules, called poxytrins, which possess the same E,Z,E conjugated triene geometry, and are synthesized from other polyunsaturated fatty acids with 22 or 20 carbons. Here we present new biological activities of di-hydroxylated metabolites deriving from α-linolenic acid (18:3n-3) treated by soybean 15-lipoxygenase (sLOX). We show that 18:3n-3 is converted by sLOX into mainly 13(S)-OH-18:3 after reduction of the hydroperoxide product. But surprisingly, and in contrast to DHA which is metabolized into only one di-hydroxylated compound, 18:3n-3 leads to four di-hydroxylated fatty acid isomers. We report here the complete characterization of these compounds using high field NMR and GC-MS techniques, and some of their biological activities. These compounds are: 9(R),16(S)-dihydroxy-10E,12E,14E-octadecatrienoic acid, 9(S),16(S)-dihydroxy-10E,12E,14E-octadecatrienoic acid, 9(S),16(S)-dihydroxy-10E,12Z,14E-octadecatrienoic acid, and 9(R),16(S)-dihydroxy-10E,12Z,14E-octadecatrienoic acid. They can also be synthesized by the human recombinant 15-lipoxygenase (type 2). Their inhibitory effect on blood platelet and anti-inflammatory properties were compared with those already reported for PDX.

Effect of semisolid formulation of persea americana mill (avocado) oil on wound healing in rats

The aim of this study was to evaluate the wound-healing activity of a semisolid formulation of avocado oil, SSFAO 50%, or avocado oil in natura, on incisional and excisional cutaneous wound models in Wistar rats. An additional objective was to quantify the fatty acids present in avocado oil. On the 14th day, a significant increase was observed in percentage wound contraction and reepithelialization in the groups treated with 50% SSFAO or avocado oil compared to the petroleum jelly control. Anti-inflammatory activity, increase in density of collagen, and tensile strength were observed inSSFAO 50% or avocado oil groups, when compared to control groups. The analysis of the components of avocado oil by gas chromatography detected the majority presence of oleic fatty acid (47.20%), followed by palmitic (23.66%), linoleic (13.46%) docosadienoic (8.88%), palmitoleic (3.58%), linolenic (1.60%), eicosenoic (1.29%), and myristic acids (0.33%). Our results show that avocado oil is a rich source of oleic acid and contains essential fatty acids. When used in natura or in pharmaceutical formulations for topical use, avocado oil can promote increased collagen synthesis and decreased numbers of inflammatory cells during the wound-healing process and may thus be considered a new option for treating skin wounds.

Comparisons of insulin related parameters in commercial-type chicks: Evidence for insulin resistance in broiler chicks

The aim of this study is to elucidate whether insulin acts differentially within the central nervous system (CNS) of two types of commercial chicks to control ingestive behavior. Male layer and broiler chicks (4-day-old) were intracerebroventricularly (ICV) injected with saline or insulin under satiated and starved conditions. Feed intake was measured at 30, 60 and 120 min after treatment. Secondly, blood and hypothalamus were collected from both chick types under ad libitum feeding and fasting for 24 h. Plasma insulin concentration was measured by time-resolved fluoro-immunoassay. Hypothalamic insulin receptor mRNA expression levels were measured by quantitative RT-PCR. The ICV injection of insulin significantly inhibited feed consumption in layer chicks when compared with saline (P<0.05), but not broiler chicks (P>0.1). Plasma insulin concentration of both chick types significantly decreased following 24 h of fasting, while insulin concentrations in the broiler chicks were significantly higher compared to the layers fed under ad libitum conditions. Hypothalamic insulin receptor mRNA expression levels were significantly lower (P<0.05) in broiler chicks than in layer ones under ad libitum feeding. Feed deprivation significantly decreased insulin receptor mRNA levels in layer chicks (P<0.01), but not in broiler chicks (P>0.1). Moreover, plasma insulin concentrations correlated negatively with hypothalamic insulin receptor protein expression in the two types of chicks fed ad libitum (P<0.05). These results suggest that insulin resistance exists in the CNS of broiler chicks, possibly due to persistent hyperinsulinemia, which results in a down-regulation of CNS insulin receptor expression compared to that in layer chicks.

Maternal dietary n-3 fatty acids alter cardiac ventricle fatty acid composition, prostaglandin and thromboxane production in growing chicks

The effects of feeding n-6 and n-3 fatty acids to broiler hens on cardiac ventricle fatty acid composition, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) production of hatched chicks were investigated. Fertile eggs obtained from hens fed diets supplemented with 3.5% sunflower oil (Low n-3), 1.75% sunflower+1.75% fish oil (Medium n-3), or 3.5% fish oil (High n-3) were incubated. The hatched chicks were fed a diet containing 18:3 n-3, but devoid of longer chain n-6 and n-3 fatty acids for 42 days. Arachidonic acid content was lower in the cardiac ventricle of High n-3 and Medium n-3 compared to Low n-3 birds for up to 2 weeks (P<0.002). Long chain n-3 fatty acids were higher in the cardiac ventricle of chicks from hens fed High and Medium n-3 diets when compared to chicks from hens fed the Low n-3 diet. Differences in long chain n-3 fatty acids persisted up to four weeks of age (P<0.001). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) of 7-day-old High n-3 broilers produced significantly lower PGE2 and TXA2 than PBMNC from Low n-3 and Medium n-3 birds. These results indicate that maternal dietary n-3 fatty acids increases cardiac ventricle n-3 fatty acids while reducing arachidonic acid and ex vivo PGE2 and TXA2 production during growth in broiler chickens.

Egg quality and yolk polyunsaturated fatty acid status in relation to broiler breeder hen age and dietary n-3 oils

The effects of broiler breeder hen age and dietary n-3 oils on yolk n-3 and n-6 fatty acid composition, egg quality, fertility, and hatchability were investigated. A total of 2,200 eggs were collected from wk 26 through 62 from Cobb breeder hens fed diets containing 1.75% fish oil + 1.75% yellow grease (low n-3) or 3.5% fish oil (high n-3). Eggs obtained from a commercial source were used as the control for n-6 and n-3 fatty acid composition and hatchability studies. A significant decrease in egg weight, yolk weight, shell weight, and yolk color was observed for high n-3 when compared with low n-3 eggs (P < 0.05). No difference was noted in egg total fat content due to dietary treatments. However, egg fat was highest at 42 wk for high and low n-3 eggs when compared with other weeks (P < 0.05). Total n-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6 n-3), and the DHA:arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4 n-6) ratios were higher in high n-3 eggs when compared with low n-3 eggs. The incorporation of DHA was lowest at wk 26 and highest at wk 38 for low and high n-3 eggs (P < 0.05). Low n-3 and high n-3 eggs at the oldest age had the highest level of AA (P < 0.05). A positive correlation between hen age and egg yolk AA content was observed. The r(2) values for AA in low n-3 and high n-3 eggs were 0.91 and 0.90, respectively (P < 0.05). The total content of long-chain (>18-C) n-6 PUFA (AA+ 22:4 n-6+22:5 n-6) constituted over 0.3 g per commercial egg when compared with 0.09 and 0.07 g in low and high n-3 eggs, respectively. The content of DHA in commercial eggs was negligible (<0.5%) when compared with low and high n-3 (P < 0.05). The overall fertility was 98.6 and 97.4%, and hatchability of fertile eggs was 80 and 83.8% for low and high n-3 eggs, respectively (P > 0.05). The overall fertility was 96%, and hatchability of fertile eggs was 80% for commercial eggs.