Effect of lipopolysaccharides from pathogenic bacteria on broiler chickens' productivity: a meta-analysis

1. This meta-analysis investigated the impact of LPS and covariates (serotype, rearing period and administration route) on the productivity parameters of broiler chickens (average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR)).2. Thirty-two eligible studies were included. Hedges' g effect size was determined using a random-effects model at 95% confidence interval.3. Results showed that LPS significantly decreased average daily feed intake (ADFI; p < 0.0001) and average daily gain (ADG; p < 0.0001) and increased FCR (p < 0.0001). The serotypes Escherichia coli 055: B5 (EC055: B5) and Escherichia coli 0127: B8 (EC 0127: B8) significantly reduced ADFI and ADG, and the serotype EC 055: B5 significantly increased the FCR (p < 0.05).4. The intraperitoneal administration of the LPS significantly reduced the productivity of broiler chickens (p < 0.05), but other administration routes did not show such effects. The reduction in ADFI and ADG was found in all rearing periods (p < 0.05), and the increase in FCR was observed in the starter (p = 0.0302) and grower periods (p = 0.0031).5. Exposure to LPS significantly reduced the productivity of broiler chickens (p < 0.05). However, no relationship was observed between LPS dosage and productivity as indicated by the meta-regression study.6. The findings indicated that LPS has detrimental effects on broiler chickens' ADFI, ADG and FCR across various LPS serotypes and rearing periods. These detrimental impacts of LPS remain consistent regardless of the administered dosage.

Synergism of fermented feed and ginseng polysaccharide on growth performance, intestinal development, and immunity of Xuefeng black-bone chickens

Microbial fermented feed (MF) is considered a valuable strategy to bring advantages to livestock and is widely practiced. Oral supplementation of Ginseng polysaccharide (Gps) eliminated weight loss in chickens following vaccination. This study investigated the effects of the combined use of Gps and MF on growth performance and immune indices in Xuefeng black-bone chickens. A total of 400 Xuefeng black-bone chickens at the age of 1 day were randomly assigned to four groups. Normal feed group (Control group), ginseng polysaccharide (200 mg/kg) group (Gps group), microbially fermented feed (completely replace the normal feed) group (MF group), and microbially fermented feed and add ginseng polysaccharide just before use (MF + Gps group). Each group contained 5 pens per treatment and 20 birds per pen. The body weight and average daily gain in the Gps, MF, and MF + Gps groups increased significantly (P < 0.01), while the feed conversion ratio decreased significantly (P < 0.01). The combined use of MF and Gps showed a synergistic effect. There was no significant difference in villus height (cecal) between the experimental group and the Con group. The crypt depth of the three experimental groups exhibited a significantly lower value compared to the Control group (P < 0.05). The V/C ratio of the Gps group and MF + Gps was significantly increased (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in the MF group. Moreover, the diarrhea rate of the Gps and the MF + Gps groups was lower than that of the Con group, while that of the MF + Gps group decreased the mortality rate (P < 0.05). The serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels in the MF, Gps, and MF + Gps groups decreased significantly (P < 0.01), the serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels increased significantly (P < 0.01), while the combination of MF and Gps had a synergistic effect. The combined use of Gps and MF not only further improved growth performance and immune parameters, but also reduced the diarrhea rate and mortality.

Effect of Wu Zhi San supplementation in LPS-induced intestinal inflammation and barrier damage in broilers

Intestinal inflammation and barrier damage can inhibit the absorption and transportation of nutrients in the small intestine, and lead to various chronic diseases. Wu Zhi San (WZS) is a traditional Chinese formula composed of Schisandrae, Anemarrhenae, Lonicerae, and Glycyrrhizae that was made to cure intestinal inflammation and barrier damage in broilers. To evaluate the protective effect of WZS on intestinal inflammation and barrier damage of broilers under lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stress, a total of 200 one-day-old broilers were randomly divided into five groups, namely, the CON group, LPS group, and three WZS groups (WZS-H, WZS-M, and WZS-L). The groups were designed for stress phase I (days 15, 17, 19, and 21) and stress phase II (days 29, 31, 33, and 35). The protective effect of WZS on the intestinal tract was evaluated by measuring the levels of serum myeloperoxidase (MPO), diamine oxidase (DAO), super oxide dismutase (SOD), and serum D-lactate (D-LA) and the expression of inflammatory factors in jejunum. The results showed that the diet supplemented with WZS could significantly reduce serum MPO, DAO, and D-LA levels and jejunal CD in broilers (p < 0.05), increase serum SOD levels and jejunal VH (p < 0.05), significantly downregulate the expression of NF-κB, TLR4, MyD88, and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10), and upregulate Claudin-1, Occludin-1, and ZO-1 in broiler jejunum mucosa (p < 0.05). On the other hand, WZS could significantly reduce the protein expression of NF-κB (p65) in broiler jejunum (p < 0.05). These results indicate that supplementing WZS in the diet can reduce intestinal inflammation and alleviate intestinal barrier damage, and by inhibiting the NF-κB/TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway, supplementation with WZS intervenes in LPS-induced stress injury in broilers.

The efficacy of polyphenols as an antioxidant agent: An updated review

Global production of the two major poultry products, meat and eggs, has increased quickly. This, in turn, indicates both the relatively low cost and the customers' desire for these secure and high-quality products. Natural feed additives have become increasingly popular to preserve and enhance the health and productivity of poultry and livestock. We consume a lot of polyphenols, which are a kind of micronutrient. These are phytochemicals with positive effects on cardiovascular, cognitive, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, anti-tumor, anti-pathogen, a catalyst for growth, and immunomodulating functions, among extra health advantages. Furthermore, high quantities of polyphenols have unknown and occasionally unfavorable impacts on the digestive tract health, nutrient assimilation, the activity of digestive enzymes, vitamin and mineral assimilation, the performance of the laying hens, and the quality of the eggs. This review clarifies the numerous sources, categories, biological functions, potential limitations on usage, and effects of polyphenols on poultry performance, egg composition, exterior and interior quality traits.

Ginkgo biloba extracts improve choroidal circulation leading to suppression of myopia in mice

Myopia is becoming more common across the world, necessitating the development of preventive methods. We investigated the activity of early growth response 1 (EGR-1) protein and discovered that Ginkgo biloba extracts (GBEs) activated EGR-1 in vitro. In vivo, C57BL/6 J mice were fed either normal or 0.0667% GBEs (200 mg/kg) mixed chow (n = 6 each), and myopia was induced with - 30 diopter (D) lenses from 3 to 6 weeks of age. Refraction and axial length were measured by an infrared photorefractor and an SD-OCT system, respectively. In lens-induced myopia mice, oral GBEs significantly improved refractive errors (- 9.92 ± 1.53 D vs. - 1.67 ± 3.51 D, p < 0.001) and axial elongation (0.22 ± 0.02 mm vs. 0.19 ± 0.02 mm, p < 0.05). To confirm the mechanism of GBEs in preventing myopia progression, the 3-week-old mice were divided into normally fed with either myopic-induced or non-myopic-induced groups and GBEs fed with either myopic-induced or non-myopic-induced groups (n = 10 each). Choroidal blood perfusion was measured with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). In both non-myopic induced groups, compared to normal chow, oral GBEs significantly improved choroidal blood perfusion (8.48 ± 15.75%Area vs. 21.74 ± 10.54%Area, p < 0.05) and expression of Egr-1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the choroid. In both myopic-induced groups, compared to normal chow, oral GBEs also improved choroidal blood perfusion (- 9.82 ± 9.47%Area vs. 2.29 ± 11.84%Area, p < 0.05) and was positively correlated with the change in choroidal thickness. These findings suggest that GBEs may inhibit the progression of myopia by improving choroidal blood perfusion.

Artemisia ordosica polysaccharide ameliorated LPS-induced growth inhibition and intestinal injury in broilers through enhancing immune-regulation and antioxidant capacity

The study investigated the effects of dietary Artemisia ordosica polysaccharide (AOP) on growth, intestinal morphology, immune responses and antioxidant capacity of broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A total of 192 1-d-old broilers were randomly allotted to four treatments with 6 replicates (n = 8): (1) CON group, non-challenged broilers fed basal diet; (2) LPS group, LPS-challenged broilers fed basal diet; (3) AOP group, non-challenged broilers fed basal diet supplemented with 750 mg/kg AOP; (4) LPS+AOP group, LPS-challenged broilers fed basal diet supplemented with 750 mg/kg AOP. The trial included starter phase (d 1 to 14), stress period Ⅰ (d 15 to 21), convalescence Ⅰ (d 22 to 28), stress period Ⅱ (d 29 to 35) and convalescence Ⅱ (d 36 to 42). During stress period Ⅰ and Ⅱ, broilers were injected intra-abdominally either with LPS solution or with equal sterile saline. The results showed that AOP alleviated LPS-induced growth inhibition by prompting protein digestibility, and decreasing serum stress hormones and pro-inflammatory cytokines content of broilers. Moreover, AOP decreased LPS-induced over-production of IL-1β and IL-6 through suppressing TLR4/NF-κB pathway, and alleviated LPS-induced decreasing of T-AOC, CAT and GPx activities by activating Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, which ultimately improved jejunum morphology. In conclusion, AOP alleviated LPS-induced growth inhibition and intestinal damage by enhancing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities of broilers.

Ginsenoside Rg1 and Re alleviates inflammatory responses and oxidative stress of broiler chicks challenged by lipopolysaccharide

Previous study showed that ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) and ginsenoside Re (Re) alleviated growth inhibition of broiler chicks with immune stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Rg1 and Re on inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in liver of broilers with immune stress induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Forty broiler chicks were randomly divided into 4 groups, each group consisting of 10 chickens. The model group, Rg1 group, and Re group were received continuously interval injection of 250 μg/kg body weight LPS at the age of 12, 14, 33, and 35 days to induce immune stress. Control group was injected with an equivalent amount of sterile saline. Then broilers in Rg1 group and Re group were given 1mg/kg body weight Rg1 and Re intraperitoneally 2 h after the LPS challenge respectively. Blood samples were collected for the detection of hormone levels, inflammatory mediators, and antioxidant parameters. Hepatic tissues were taken for pathological observation. Total RNA was extracted from the liver for real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Our results showed that Rg1 or Re could alleviate histological changes of liver, reduce production of stress-related hormones, inhibit inflammatory responses, and enhance antioxidant capacity in broilers challenged by immune stress. In addition, Rg1 or Re treatment upregulated mRNA expression of antioxidant-related genes and downregulated mRNA expression of inflammation-related factors and apoptosis-related genes in the liver of immune-stressed broilers. The results suggest that the plant extracts containing Rg1 and Re can be used for ameliorating hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation and controlling immune stress in broiler chicks.

Impacts of supplemental Ginkgo biloba oil on broilers' growth, blood indices, intestinal and hepatic morphology and expression of growth-related genes

The current work examined the impact of Ginkgo biloba oil (GBO) on growth performance, some biochemical parameters, intestinal and hepatic morphology, economic efficiency and expression of some growth-related genes in broiler chickens. A total of 135 chicks (Cobb 500) were allotted into three groups with 3 replications (15 birds/replicate). The experimental groups included: G1 (control), G2 and G3 were supplemented with GBO in the drinking water (0.25 and 0.5 cm/L), respectively. The GBO was added to the drinking water only for 3 successive weeks. Compared to the other groups, supplementation with 0.25 cm/L GBO significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased final body weight, overall weight gain, feed intake and water consumption. When 0.25 cm GBO/L was added, that group significantly differed in intestinal villus length (P ≤ 0.05). Birds received 0.25 cm GBO/L had significantly greater blood total albumin and total protein concentrations (P ≤ 0.05), while birds given 0.5 cm GBO/L had higher serum cholesterol and LDL concentrations (P ≤ 0.05). The cost parameters were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) in the 0.25 cm GBO/L supplemented group, which exhibited higher total return and net profit. The addition of 0.25 cm GBO/L resulted in higher expression of antioxidant enzymes and insulin-like growth factor while inhibiting the expression of Myostatin in muscles (P < 0.05) compared to the control and those received 0.5 cm GBO/L. In conclusion, broiler chickens that received 0.25 cm GBO/L for 3 consecutive days per week had better performance, intestinal morphology, profitability, and antioxidant status than the control birds.

Dietary supplementation with anthocyanin attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal damage through antioxidant effects in yellow-feathered broiler chicks

This study investigated the protective effects of anthocyanin (AC) supplementation on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged yellow-feathered broiler chicks. A total of 480 1-d female broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups: basal diet (CON), basal diet + LPS-challenge (LPS), supplementation with 100 or 400 mg/kg AC + LPS-challenge (AC100, AC400). On d 17 and d 19, birds in LPS, AC100 and AC400 received an intramuscular dose of LPS, while birds in CON received saline. The result showed that (1) LPS injection significantly decreased (P < 0.05) body weight on d 21 and average daily gain of broiler chicks from 1 to 21 days of age, and supplementation with 100 mg/kg AC increased (P < 0.05) those of LPS-challenged broilers. (2) There were no differences among the treatments (P > 0.05) in relative weights of immune organs. (3) Supplementation with AC (AC100 and AC400) increased (P < 0.05) the jejunal villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio (AC100) of LPS-challenged birds. Challenge with LPS decreased the relative expression of OCLN (Occludin), ZO-1, JAM2, and MUC2 in jejunal mucosa of broilers, and supplementation with AC offset the relative expression of ZO-1, JAM2 (AC100 and AC400), and OCLN (AC400) in LPS-injected broilers. (4) LPS-induced increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and decreases in activity of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and expression of SOD1, CAT and GPX in jejunal mucosa, were attenuated by dietary AC supplementation. In conclusion, in yellow-feathered broiler chicks, dietary supplementation with AC alleviated LPS-induced declined growth performance and mucosal damage of the intestine through antioxidant effects.

Phytogenic Antioxidants Prolong n-3 Fatty Acid-Enriched Eggs’ Shelf Life by Activating the Nrf-2 Pathway through Phosphorylation of MAPK

Helpful for human health, omega-3 (n-3)-enriched eggs are preferred by consumers. However, antioxidants should be added to the hen’s diet to prevent n-3 fatty acid oxidation due to their unsaturated bonds. A study was designed to investigate the effects of different antioxidants on performance, egg quality, fatty acid profile, oxidation parameters, gene expression, and magnum morphology. A total of 450 hens were divided into five dietary groups. Wheat–flaxseed was used for the basic diet (control) and supplemented with vitamin E (VE), chlorogenic acid (CA), polyphenol (PF), and lutein (L). The experiment lasted for 10 weeks. The eggs were collected on the 5th week and were analyzed for quality, oxidative stability, and fatty acid (FA) content, being stored for 0 d, 7 d, 14 d, 21 d, 28 d, 35 d, and 42 d. The results showed that supplemental VE, PF, CA, and L improved the egg weight and hen day egg production compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The VE, PF, and L groups significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) and maintained the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in the egg yolk. The albumen height and Haugh unit were maintained in the egg yolk till 35 days of storage by the VE, PF, and L groups, while the CA group reduced the albumen quality after 21 d storage. The VE, PF, CA, and lutein maintained the content of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), during the whole storage period. The total n-3 FA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were retained in the egg yolk till 35 and 28 days of storage, respectively, and slightly decreased after 35 and 28 days in the L groups. The total n-6 (Tn-6) FA was maintained in the yolk till 28 days of storage in the CA and PF groups, respectively. The VE, PF, and L groups upregulated the expression of Nrf-2, P38MAPK, HO-1, SOD-1, and GSH-Px as compared to the CA and control groups. The VE, PF, and L groups significantly increased the magnum primary folds and epithelium height as compared to CA and the control. Thus, it was concluded that the use of PF and L is better at preventing egg quality deterioration and lipid oxidation, maintaining more than 300 mg/egg n-3 FA during storage, by activating the Nrf-2 pathway through the phosphorylation of P38MAPK, and enhancing the phase-2 antioxidant defense enzymes, namely, SOD, GSH-Px, and HO-1.

Effect of Cardamine violifolia on Plasma Biochemical Parameters, Anti-Oxidative Capacity, Intestinal Morphology, and Meat Quality of Broilers Challenged with Lipopolysaccharide

Cardamine violifolia is a newly discovered selenium (Se)-enriched plant rich in MeSeCys and SeCys and has a strong antioxidant capacity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Cardamine violifolia on plasma biochemical indices, antioxidant levels, intestinal morphology, and meat quality of broilers under acute LPS-induced oxidative stress by comparing it with inorganic Se (sodaium selenite). A total of 240 one-day-old Ross 308 broilers were fed a basal diet and divided into four groups: (1) SeNa-SS, fed a diet supplied with 0.3 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite, and injected with 0.9% sterile saline, (2) SeCv-SS, fed a diet supplied with 0.3 mg/kg Se from Cardamine violifolia, and injected with 0.9% sterile saline, (3) SeNa-LPS, fed a diet supplied with 0.3 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite, and injected with 0.5 mg/kg LPS, (4) SeCv-LPS, fed a diet supplied with 0.3 mg/kg Se from Cardamine violifolia and injected with 0.5 mg/kg LPS. The experiment lasted for 42 days. Sterile saline or LPS was injected intraperitoneally two hours before slaughter, and blood and tissue samples were collected for testing. The results showed that compared with SeNa, SeCv significantly reduced the plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and urea nitrogen after LPS challenge (p < 0.05), and increased the plasma levels of total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase, decreased malondialdehyde content in LPS-challenged broilers (p < 0.05). In addition, compared with SeNa, SeCv supplementation increased villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth of jejunum and ileum after LPS challenge (p < 0.05). Additionally, SeCv could increase the redness of breast and thigh muscle, and decrease drip loss, cooking loss, and shear force (p < 0.05). In conclusion, our results indicated that supplementing with 0.3 mg/kg Se from Cardamine violifolia alleviated tissue injury after LPS challenge, increased antioxidant capacity, and improved meat quality of breast and thigh muscle after stress.

Dietary Glutamine Supplementation Alleviated Inflammation Responses and Improved Intestinal Mucosa Barrier of LPS-Challenged Broilers

Simple Summary

In commercial intense industry, birds have to undergo a series of physical, social and microbial stress. LPS, a structural substance of gram-negative bacterial membrane and an effective immune stimulator for human and animal immune system, can impair growth performance, elevate the production of inflammatory cytokines and destroy the morphology of broilers’ small intestine. Moreover, LPS challenge also can reduce the expression levels of tight junction proteins and ruin the integrity of mucosal barrier of broilers. However, glutamine is considered to be conditionally essential for gut homeostasis and barrier function and maybe a useful strategy to attenuate immunological stress and improve intestine function in response to stressful conditions. Our study showed that 1% Gln supplementation improved the growth performance, alleviated the inflammatory responses and ameliorated the intestinal permeability and the integrity of intestinal mucosa barrier of LPS-challenged broilers.

Abstract

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of glutamine (Gln) supplementation on intestinal inflammatory reaction and mucosa barrier of broilers administrated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimuli. A total of 120 1-d-old male broilers were randomly divided into four treatments in a 2 × 2 experimental arrangement, containing immune challenge (injected with LPS in a dose of 0 or 500 μg/kg of body weight) and dietary treatments (supplemented with 1.22% alanine or 1% Gln). The results showed that growth performance of broilers intra-abdominally injected with LPS was impaired, and Gln administration alleviated the adverse effects on growth performance induced by LPS challenge. Furthermore, Gln supplementation reduced the increased concentration of circulating tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β induced by LPS challenge. Meanwhile, D-lactic acid and diamine oxidase concentration in plasma were also decreased by Gln supplementation. In addition, the shorter villus height, deeper crypt depth and the lower ratio of villus height to crypt depth of duodenum, jejunum and ileum induced by LPS stimulation were reversed by Gln supplementation. Gln administration beneficially increased LPS-induced reduction in the expression of intestine tight junction proteins such as zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO-1), claudin-1 and occludin except for the ZO-1 in duodenum and occludin in ileum. Moreover, Gln supplementation downregulated the mRNA expression of toll-like receptor 4, focal adhesion kinase, myeloid differentiation factor 88 and IL-1R-associated kinase 4 in TLR4/FAK/MyD88 signaling pathway. Therefore, it can be concluded that Gln administration could attenuate LPS-induced inflammatory responses and improve intestinal barrier damage of LPS-challenged broilers.

Effect of Immune Stress on Growth Performance and Immune Functions of Livestock: Mechanisms and Prevention

Simple Summary

Immune stress is an important stressor in domestic animals that leads to decreased feed intake, slow growth, and reduced disease resistance of pigs and poultry. Especially in high-density animal feeding conditions, the risk factor of immune stress is extremely high, as they are easily harmed by pathogens, and frequent vaccinations are required to enhance the immunity function of the animals. This review mainly describes the causes, mechanisms of immune stress and its prevention and treatment measures. This provides a theoretical basis for further research and development of safe and efficient prevention and control measures for immune stress in animals.

Abstract

Immune stress markedly affects the immune function and growth performance of livestock, including poultry, resulting in financial loss to farmers. It can lead to decreased feed intake, reduced growth, and intestinal disorders. Studies have shown that pathogen-induced immune stress is mostly related to TLR4-related inflammatory signal pathway activation, excessive inflammatory cytokine release, oxidative stress, hormonal disorders, cell apoptosis, and intestinal microbial disorders. This paper reviews the occurrence of immune stress in livestock, its impact on immune function and growth performance, and strategies for immune stress prevention.

Herbal Plants Application in Organic Poultry Nutrition and Production

Background:

Medicinal plants and natural feed additives are the most important alternatives in animal production, especially broiler production, due to the ban on the use of certain antibiotics, their cost-effectiveness and harmful residual effects.

Objective:

In this mini-review article, some important medicinal herbs and plants with positive effects on organic broiler production have been highlighted.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted in Science Direct, Google, Google Scholar, Springer, Medline and PubMed.

Results:

Medicinal plants such as ginger, ginkgo, thyme, ponderosa pine, soybean, forsythia, peppermint, Chinese star anise, astragalus, mistletoe, schisandra, cumin, capsicum, garlic, hooker chives, artichoke, Borreria latifolia, zataria, pomegranate, turmeric, lingzhi, Lippia javanica, neem, oriental chaff flower, mulberry leaf, goji berry, Aloe vera, pumpkin, grape, common nettle, marigold, coriandrum, Citrus sinensis, Alisma canaliculatum, Persian hogweed, Eucommiaulmoides, bamboo leaf extract, rosemary, Morina citrifolia, chestnut, green tea, wild mint, clove, sumac, satureja, ashwagandha, Lonicera japonica, Acacia, liquorice, Artemisia annua, milk thistle, cinnamon, black cumin and etc. have positive effects on organic broiler production.

Conclusion:

Herbal medicines lead to increased body weight due to a higher feed intake and a higher feed conversion ratio, and improve antioxidant activity of broiler chickens based on their phenolic compound contents. The combination of medicinal herbal additives also has a positive impact on broiler production. In organic broiler production with the usage of herbal plants, reducing hormones, growth promoters and antibiotics should be organized as well as considering appropriate organic feed management and higher production.

Effect of zinc supplementation on growth performance, intestinal development, and intestinal barrier function in Pekin ducks with lipopolysaccharide challenge

This study was conducted to investigate the influence of zinc (Zn) supplementation on growth performance, intestinal development and intestinal barrier function in Pekin ducks. A total of 480, one-day-old male Pekin ducks were divided into 6 groups with 8 replicates: 0 mg/kg Zn, 0 mg/kg Zn +0.5 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 30 mg/kg Zn, 30 mg/kg Zn +0.5 mg/kg LPS, 120 mg/kg Zn, 120 mg/kg Zn +0.5 mg/kg LPS. The duck primary intestinal epithelial cells (DIECs) were divided into 6 groups: D-Zn (Zinc deficiency, treated with 2 µmol/L zinc Chelator TPEN), A-Zn (Adequate Zinc, basal medium), H-Zn (High level of Zn, supplemented with 20 µmol/L Zn), D-Zn + 20 µg/mL LPS, A-Zn + 20 µg/mL LPS, H-Zn + 20 µg/mL LPS. The results were as follows: in vivo, with Zn supplementation of 120 mg/kg reduced LPS-induced decrease of growth performance and intestine damage (P < 0.05), and increased intestinal digestive enzyme activity of Pekin ducks (P < 0.05). In addition, Zn supplementation also attenuated LPS-induced intestinal epithelium permeability (P < 0.05), inhibited LPS-induced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and apoptosis-related genes (P < 0.05), as well as reduced LPS-induced the intestinal stem cells mobilization of Pekin ducks (P < 0.05). In vitro, 20 µmol/L Zn inhibited LPS-induced expression of inflammatory factors and apoptosis-related genes (P < 0.05), promoted the expression of cytoprotection-related genes, and attenuated LPS-induced intestinal epithelium permeability in DIECs (P < 0.05). Mechanistically, 20 µmol/L Zn enhanced tight junction protein markers including CLDN-1, OCLD, and ZO-1 both at protein and mRNA levels (P < 0.05), and also increased the level of phosphorylation of TOR protein (P < 0.05) and activated the TOR signaling pathway. In conclusion, Zn improves growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, and intestinal barrier function of Pekin ducks. Importantly, Zn also reverses LPS-induced intestinal barrier damage via enhancing the expression of tight junction proteins and activating the TOR signaling pathway.

Role of Polyphenols in the Metabolism of the Skeletal System in Humans and Animals – A Review

Polyphenols are a group of compounds arousing enormous interest due to their multiple effects on both human and animal health and omnipresence in plants. A number of in vitro and animal model studies have shown that all polyphenols exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, and play a significant role against oxidative stress-related pathologies. They also exert gut promotory effects and prevent chronic degenerative diseases. However, less attention has been paid to the potential influence of polyphenols on bone properties and metabolism. It is well known that proper growth and functioning of the organism depend largely on bone growth and health. Therefore, understanding the action of substances (including polyphenols) that may improve the health and functioning of the skeletal system and bone metabolism is extremely important for the health of the present and future generations of both humans and farm animals. This review provides a comprehensive summary of literature related to causes of bone loss during ageing of the organism (in both humans and animals) and possible effects of dietary polyphenols preventing bone loss and diseases. In particular, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms that can modulate skeletal homeostasis and influence the bone modeling and remodeling processes are presented.

Highly effective dietary inclusion of laurel (Laurus nobilis) leaves on productive traits of broiler chickens

Laurel leaves characterized with interesting antioxidant effects, which have often used to improve the immunity with positive consequences on growth and performance This study was conducted to assess the effect of adding crushed laurel leaves to the diet on the productive traits of broiler chickens. A total of 180 broiler chickens, were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments, with a rate of 45 birds per treatment; each treatment consisted of three replicates. The first treatment, or control, was generated without adding laurel leaves to the diet, second, third, and fourth treatments were generated by adding laurel leaves with amounts of 1, 2, and 3 g kg-1 feed, respectively. Nine productive traits were evaluated in this study, including the average of live body weight, weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, percentage of mortality, productive index, length of the villus, depth of crypts, and villus length/crypts length ratio. Results indicated that the addition of laurel leaves led to a significant improvement in all productive traits, signifying highly essential participation of laurel leaves to enhance growth and performance. In conclusion, it can be stated that adding 3 g kg-1 of crushed laurel leaves to the diet can improve the productive traits of broiler chickens.

Evaluation of serum antioxidative status, immune status and intestinal condition of Linwu duck challenged by lipopolysaccharide with various dosages and replications

The present study investigated the dosage and replication effects of lipopolysaccharide challenges on the serum oxidative and immune status, and the intestinal morphology and permeability of Linwu ducks at the growing stage. A total of 500 54-day-old Linwu ducks were randomly assigned into 10 treatments, which included a factorial arrangement of 2 levels of LPS challenge replications (1 and 2 times) × 5 levels of lipopolysaccharide challenging dosages (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 mg/kg). Each treatment consisted of 5 cages and 10 ducks per cage. The results showed significant replication effects of LPS on the body weight gain of ducks, that 2 replicates of LPS challenges significantly decreased the body weight gain than one challenge (P = 0.036). Regarding to the serum oxidative and immune status, dosage effects of lipopolysaccharide were found on the serum levels of superoxide dismutase (P = 0.034) and immunoglobulin A (P = 0.007), that 0.4 mg/kg lipopolysaccharides significantly increased the levels of these 2 parameters. Additionally, replication effects were found in the serum levels of interlukin 1β, that 2 replicates of LPS challenges significantly increased the interlukin 1β levels comparing to one challenge (P = 0.010). Regarding to the intestinal conditions, dosage effects of lipopolysaccharides were found on the ratio of villus height and crypt depth (P = 0.005) in duodenum, and the wall thickness of duodenum (P = 0.010) and jejunum (P = 0.001), that lipopolysaccharides at 0.1, 0.2, and 0.8 mg/kg significantly deteriorated the intestinal morphologies, especially in the duodenum and jejunum. Moreover, the dosage effects of lipopolysaccharides and the interactions of dosages and replications significantly influenced the permeabilities of the intestinal segments (P < 0.05). It appeared that 2 replicates of lipopolysaccharides at the dosage at 0.4 mg/kg could trigger oxidative and immunological stress, and damage the intestinal morphology and permeability of Linwu ducks at the growing stage.

Phenolic compounds as natural feed additives in poultry and swine diets: a review

Due to ban on using antibiotics in feed industry, awareness of using natural feed additives have led to a great demand. The interest of plants phenolic compounds as a potential natural antioxidant source has been considered in research community due to their predictable potential role as feed additives in poultry and swine production. However, the mode of action for their functional role and dosage recommendation in animal diets are still remain indistinct. Taking into account, the present review study highlights an outline about the mode of action of phenolic compound and their experimental uses in poultry and swine focusing on the growth performance, antioxidant function, immune function, antimicrobial role and overall health status, justified with the past findings till to date. Finally, the present review study concluded that supplementation of phenolic compounds as natural feed additives may have a role on the antioxidant, immunity, antimicrobial and overall production performance in poultry and swine.

Gut Microbiota-Polyphenol Interactions in Chicken: A Review

The gastrointestinal tract of the chicken harbors very complex and diverse microbial communities including both beneficial and harmful bacteria. However, a dynamic balance is generally maintained in such a way that beneficial bacteria predominate over harmful ones. Environmental factors can negatively affect this balance, resulting in harmful effects on the gut, declining health, and productivity. This means modulating changes in the chicken gut microbiota is an effective strategy to improve gut health and productivity. One strategy is using modified diets to favor the growth of beneficial bacteria and a key candidate are polyphenols, which have strong antioxidant potential and established health benefits. The gut microbiota-polyphenol interactions are of vital importance in their effects on the gut microbiota modulation because it affects not only the composition of gut bacteria but also improves bioavailability of polyphenols through generation of more bioactive metabolites enhancing their health effects on morphology and composition of the gut microbiota. The object of this review is to improve the understanding of polyphenol interactions with the gut microbiota and highlights their potential role in modulation of the gut microbiota of chicken.

Effects of dietary fish meal replacement by fermented moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaves on growth performance, nonspecific immunity and disease resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in juvenile gibel carp (Carassius auratus gibelio var. CAS III)

This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of partial replacement of fish meal by fermented moringa leaves (FMLs) on growth performance, serum biochemistry, antioxidant status, nonspecific immunity, and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in juvenile gibel carp (Carassius auratus gibelio var. CAS III). Four isonitrogenous and isoenergetic balanced diets, including three FML diets (substituting 20%, 40%, 60% of the fish meal in basal diet, F20, F40 and F60, respectively) and a basal diet (a diet containing 10% fish meal) were used. Each diet was randomly allocated to four fish groups (F20, F40, F60 and control) reared in a recirculating system. After 50 days of the feeding trial, fish were challenged by A. hydrophila. The result revealed that final mean body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), feed efficiency (FE) and survival rate (SR) were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in F20 and F40 groups compared with the control group. Decreased hepatosomatic index (HSI), body crude lipid, serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities, and increased serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and serum glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were observed in F40 and F60 groups compared with the control and F20 groups. All FMLs-supplemented groups increased (P < 0.05) serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and lysozyme activities, complement component 3 (C3) and serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) concentration, or decreased serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PCC) contents (P < 0.05). After the challenge test, the significant downregulation of toll-like receptors2 (TLR2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-8 mRNA transcription levels was observed in spleens of FMLs supplemented groups. Dietary F40 and F60 showed higher (P < 0.05) relative percent survival (RPS) (48.72% and 43.59%, respectively) against A. hydrophila infection than control. These results indicate that, as a dietary fish meal substitute, FMLs enhance the growth, and antioxidant and immune response, and regulate the expression of immune-related genes and increase disease resistance against A. hydrophila via TLR2 pathway in gibel carp, with greatest effects of 40% fish meal substitution.

The Application of Fermentation Technology in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Review

In Chinese medicine, fermentation is a highly important processing technology whereby medicinal herbs are fermented under appropriate temperature, humidity, and moisture conditions by means of the action of microorganisms to enhance their original characteristics and/or produce new effects. This expands the scope of such medicines and helps them to meet the stringent demands of clinical application. Since ancient times, Chinese medicine has been made into Yaoqu to reduce its toxicity and increase its efficiency. Modern fermentation technologies have been developed on the basis of traditional fermentation techniques and modern biological technology, and they can be divided into solid fermentation, liquid fermentation, and two-way fermentation technologies according to the fermentation form employed. This review serves as an introduction to traditional fermentation technology and its related products, modern fermentation technologies, and the application of fermentation technology in the field of Chinese medicine. Several problems and challenges facing the field are also briefly discussed.

Effect of Carotenoids, Oligosaccharides and Anthocyanins on Growth Performance, Immunological Parameters and Intestinal Morphology in Broiler Chickens Challenged with Escherichia coli Lipopolysaccharide

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of carotenoid, oligosaccharide and anthocyanin supplementation in broiler diets under Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Ross 308 chickens were fed 5 diets: basal diet (control diet), diet supplemented with β-glucan in 0.05% (positive control) and diets with 0.5% carotenoid-, oligosaccharide- or anthocyanin contents. On the 26th days of age, chickens were challenged intraperitoneally 2 mg LPS per kg of body weight. 12 h after injection, birds were euthanized, then spleen and ileum samples were collected. LPS induced increased relative mRNA expression of splenic (p = 0.0445) and ileal (p = 0.0435) interleukin-1β (IL-1β), which was lower in the spleen in carotenoid (p = 0.0114), oligosaccharide (p = 0.0497) and anthocyanin (p = 0.0303)-treated chickens compared to LPS-injected control birds. Dietary supplementation of carotenoids also decreased relative gene expression of splenic interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p = 0.0325). In the ileum, β-glucan supplementation showed lower relative mRNA expression of toll-like receptor 5 (TLR-5) (p = 0.0387) compared to anthocyanin treatment. Gene expression of both splenic and ileal interferon-α (IFN-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) and toll-like receptor 5 (TLR-5) were not influenced by dietary supplements. In conclusion, carotenoids, oligosaccharides and anthocyanins could partially mitigate the immune stress caused by LPS challenge. All of the compounds impacted longer villus height (p < 0.0001), villus height:crypt depth ratios were higher after β-glucan (p < 0.0001) and anthocyanin (p = 0.0063) supplementations and thickened mucosa was observed in β-glucan (p < 0.0001), oligosaccharide (p < 0.0001) and anthocyanin (p = 0.048) treatments. All of these findings could represent a more effective absorption of nutrients.

Effect of dietary raw and fermented sour cherry kernel (Prunus cerasus L.) on digestibility, intestinal morphology and caecal microflora in broiler chickens

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary raw sour cherry kernel (RC) or fermented sour cherry kernel (FC) on apparent digestibility, ileal morphology, and caecal microflora in broiler chickens. Raw sour cherry kernel was fermented by Aspergillus niger for 7 D. A total of 343 one-day-old Ross 308 male chicks were assigned to 7 dietary treatments consisting of 7 replicates of 7 broilers each. All birds were fed with a commercial diet or diets supplemented with 1%, 2%, or 4% RC or FC. The experimental period was 42 D. Apparent dry matter (DM), nitrogen and ash digestibilities were diminished (P < 0.05) by dietary RC inclusion, although dietary FC did not negatively affect (P > 0.05) nutrient digestibility. Dietary 1% FC increased (P < 0.01) the villus height to crypt depth ratio (VH:CD) compared with the other treatment groups, although RC4 reduced the villus height (VH, P < 0.001) and VH:CD (P < 0.01), compared with the control group. Dietary treatments had no effect (P > 0.05) on the crypt depth (CD). Birds fed 1% FC had the highest (P < 0.05) caecal Lactobacillus spp. counts among the treatment groups. Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli counts in cecum were not affected (P > 0.05) by dietary treatments. The results showed that the dietary inclusion of 1% FC improved ileal morphology and caecal microflora without any adverse effect on the apparent digestibility. These results indicate that FC has the potential to be a feed additive which improves intestinal health for broiler diets.

Dietary Stevioside Supplementation Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Intestinal Mucosal Damage through Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects in Broiler Chickens

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary stevioside (STE) supplementation on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal mucosal damage of broiler chickens. A total of 192 one-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly divided into four treatments: (1) basal diet (CON); (2) basal diet supplemented with 250 mg/kg stevioside (STE); (3) basal diet + LPS-challenge (LPS); (4) basal diet supplemented with 250 mg/kg stevioside + LPS-challenge (LPS + STE). LPS-challenged groups received an intraperitoneal injection of LPS at 17, 19 and 21 d, whereas the CON and STE groups received a saline injection. The results showed that dietary STE supplementation normalized LPS-induced changes in protein expression of p-NF-κB and p-IκBα, mRNA expression of inflammatory genes (TLR4, NF-κB, and IFN-γ), tight junction-related genes (CLDN2, OCLN, and ZO-1), and antioxidant genes (Nrf2 and HO-1). LPS-induced decreases in serum diamine oxidase (DAO) level, villus height-to-crypt depth ratio, apoptotic index, and protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were reversed with dietary STE supplementation. Additionally, STE supplementation ameliorated the redox damage by reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) content and increasing total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and antioxidant enzyme activity. In conclusion, dietary stevioside supplementation could alleviate LPS-induced intestinal mucosal damage through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in broiler chickens.

Protective effects of Ginkgo biloba L. against natural toxins, chemical toxicities, and radiation: A comprehensive review

Nowadays in our developing and industrial world, humans' health or even their life is threatened by exposure to poisons. In this situation, detecting a protective compound could be helpful and interesting. In the present article, we collected and reviewed all studies, which have been conducted so far about the protective effects of Ginkgo biloba L. (GB), one of the most ancient medicinal tree species, against toxicities induced by chemical toxic agents, natural toxins, and also radiation. In overall, investigations showed that GB exerts the antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antigenotoxicity effects in different toxicities. There are also some special mechanisms about its protective effects against some specific toxic agents, such as acetylcholine esterase inhibition in the aluminium neurotoxicity or membrane-bond phosphodiesterase activation in the triethyltin toxicity. Ginkgolide A was the most investigated active ingredient of G. biloba leaf extract as a protective compound against toxicities, which had the similar effects of total extract. A few clinical studies have been conducted in this field, which demonstrated the beneficial effects of GB against toxic agents. However, the promising effects of this valuable herbal extract will practically remain useless without carrying out more clinical studies and proving its effects on human beings.

Dietary deoxynivalenol and oral lipopolysaccharide challenge differently affect intestinal innate immune response and barrier function in broiler chickens

Dietary deoxynivalenol (DON) impairs the intestinal immune system and digestive functions of broiler chickens. However, little is known whether increasing doses of DON similarly affect the intestinal functions in different segments of the small intestine in chickens and whether a second oral challenge may potentiate those effects. The present objective was to investigate the effect of increasing dietary DON concentrations on the relative expression of genes for tight junction proteins, mucins, toll-like receptors (TLR), and cytokines in duodenum and jejunum, jejunal mucosal permeability, as well as on α-1-acid glycoprotein and IgA in serum with or without an additional oral lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Eighty 1-d-old chickens were fed diets with increasing DON concentrations (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg DON/kg diet) for 5 wk. One day before sampling, half of the chickens received an oral challenge with 1-mg Escherichia coli O55:B5 LPS/kg BW. Ussing chambers were used to measure the jejunal permeability in birds receiving 10-mg DON/kg feed with or without LPS challenge and 0-mg DON/kg feed without LPS. Increasing DON concentrations of up to 5-mg DON/kg increased (P < 0.05) the duodenal expression of TLR2, IL6, and Claudin 1 (CLDN1) by up to 84%, 88%, and 48%, respectively, compared with the noncontaminated diet. Likewise, jejunal CLDN1 expression increased up to 23% in the chickens fed DON concentrations of up to 5-mg DON/kg diet (P < 0.05). Moreover, increasing DON concentrations linearly and quadratically decreased (P < 0.05) the jejunal expression of TLR2 and transforming growth factor-β 1, respectively. The additional LPS challenge increased (P < 0.040) duodenal occludin expression by 10% as well as the jejunal tissue conductance in chickens of the 10 DON group (P = 0.050). In conclusion, dietary DON differently affected the duodenal and jejunal expression of genes for tight-junction proteins and proinflammatory signaling pathways. The additional LPS challenge did not potentiate the DON effect but it seemed to induce a certain up-regulation of the proinflammatory response in the duodenum and enhanced the mucosal permeability in the jejunum.

Recent advances in fermented feeds towards improved broiler chicken performance, gastrointestinal tract microecology and immune responses: A review

Previously, fermentation has been associated with methods that improve the nutritional value of unconventional feed ingredients for broilers. In recent decades, the fermentation process has been employed to produce functional feeds that have the potential to improve broiler gastrointestinal tract microecology, health and production performance. Some of the functional ingredients found in fermented feed include lactic acid bacteria (LAB), lactic acid and other organic acids, and appear to play major roles in determining the beneficial effects of fermented feed on broiler gut health and performance. Unlike the pig, the available literature on broiler fermented feed is still rather limited. This review describes recent advances in the use of fermented feed (on the basis of conventional and unconventional feed ingredients) in broilers. Similarly, this review also shows that additional research is necessary to exploit fermented feed as a viable food source in broiler nutrition.

Effects of Ginkgo biloba leaves (Ginkgo biloba) and Ginkgo biloba extract on nutrient and energy utilization of broilers

An experiment using 112 21-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers that were randomly allocated to 7 treatments with 8 replicates in a completely randomized design was conducted to assess the effects of Ginkgo biloba leaves (Ginkgo biloba, GL) and Ginkgo biloba extract (EGB) on utilization of nutrients of broiler chickens. The dietary treatments were corn-soybean meal based diets: 1) T1, control diet; 2) T2, T1 + 20 g/kg GL; 3) T3, T1 + 40 g/kg GL; 4) T4, T1 + 60 g/kg GL; 5) T5, T1 + 0.4 g/kg EGB; 6) T6, T1 + 0.8 g/kg EGB; and 7) T7, T1 + 1.2 g/kg EGB. Endogenous losses were obtained from another 16 broilers. Excreta samples were collected to analyze the dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), ether extract (EE), crude protein (CP), gross energy (GE), and amino acids (AA), and GE was analyzed for computation of AME and TME. As compared with those of the control treatment, the apparent digestibility (AD) and true digestibility (TD) of EE, CP, Thr, Val, Ile, Leu, Phe, Lys, His, and Arg were quadratically (P < 0.05) increased; moreover, the AD and TD of Met was linearly (P < 0.05) increased as the concentration of the EGB in the diet increased. Increasing GL from 0 to 60 g/kg of diet linearly (P < 0.05) increased the AD and TD of EE, Thr, Val, Leu, His, and Met and tended (0.05 < P < 0.1) to increase the TME, TMEn, and Arg. Supplementation of EGB increased (P < 0.05) AD and TD of EE, Thr, Val, Ile, Leu, Phe, His, and Arg and tended (0.05 < P < 0.1) to increase Lys as compared with those in the GL-supplemented groups. Dietary supplementation of GL and EGB improved the utilization of nutrients of broiler chickens in a dose-dependent manner, and the optimum supplementation levels of GL or EGB in the diet of broilers was 60 or 0.8 g/kg of diet, respectively.

Dietaryl-threonine supplementation attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses and intestinal barrier damage of broiler chickens at an early age

This study was conducted to investigate the protective effects ofl-threonine (l-Thr) supplementation on growth performance, inflammatory responses and intestinal barrier function of young broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A total of 144 1-d-old male chicks were allocated to one of three treatments: non-challenged broilers fed a basal diet (control group), LPS-challenged broilers fed a basal diet withoutl-Thr supplementation and LPS-challenged broilers fed a basal diet supplemented with 3·0 g/kgl-Thr. LPS challenge was performed intraperitoneally at 17, 19 and 21 d of age, whereas the control group received physiological saline injection. Compared with the control group, LPS challenge impaired growth performance of broilers, andl-Thr administration reversed LPS-induced increase in feed/gain ratio. LPS challenge elevated blood cell counts related to inflammation, and pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations in serum (IL-1βand TNF-α), spleen (IL-1βand TNF-α) and intestinal mucosa (jejunal interferon-γ(IFN-γ) and ileal IL-1β). The concentrations of intestinal cytokines in LPS-challenged broilers were reduced byl-Thr supplementation. LPS administration increased circulatingd-lactic acid concentration, whereas it reduced villus height, the ratio between villus height and crypt depth and goblet density in both jejunum and ileum. LPS-induced decreases in jejunal villus height, intestinal villus height:crypt depth ratio and ileal goblet cell density were reversed withl-Thr supplementation. Similarly, LPS-induced alterations in the intestinal mRNA abundances of genes related to intestinal inflammation and barrier function (jejunal toll-like receptor 4,IFN-γand claudin-3, and ilealIL-1βand zonula occludens-1) were normalised withl-Thr administration. It can be concluded thatl-Thr supplementation could attenuate LPS-induced inflammatory responses and intestinal barrier damage of young broilers.

Improvement of Animal Feed Additives of Ginkgo Leaves through Solid-state Fermentation using Aspergillus niger

To improve the quality of Ginkgo biloba leaves as biological feed additives, twelve Aspergillus niger strains were evaluated for their growth in the moisture ginkgo leaf meal media through solid-state fermentation. The results relating to flavor, flavonoids, enzymes, crude protein, and reducing sugars showed A. niger Gyx086 strain was capable of efficiently fermenting ginkgo leaves. The optimal cultural conditions were three loops of spores inoculation to every 75 g medium containing 60 % water, grew at 28˚C for 48 h. The Gyx086 grew well in the medium. The fermented leaves generated a strong sweet-smelling odor, could be identified by electronic nose equipment using a cluster analysis, other than the original offensive smell from non-fermented ginkgo leaves. Each gram dried culture with Gyx086 showed 2.83 × 10⁹ CFU of A. niger; 3.19 ± 0.37 FPU of acid-resistant filter paper activity. Its total contents of flavonoids, reducing sugars, and crude proteins were 19.95 ± 0.23 mg, 24.28 ± 2.35 mg, and 162.81 ± 3.46 mg in each gram of leaves, 26.03 %, 62.73 %, and 14.58 % higher than the controls, respectively. The essential amino acids and total amino acids contents were 96.41 % and 16.49 % higher than the controls.

Effects of Olive Leaf and Marigold Extracts on the Utilization of Nutrients and on Bone Mineralization using Two Different Oil Sources in Broilers

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of olive leaf and marigold extracts on the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of the principal nutrients and energy, as well as on mineral utilization (Ca, P, Mg, Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn) in relation to bone characteristics in broilers fed walnut- or linseed oil-supplemented diets. Thirty-six 12-day-old commercial broilers Ross 308 were reared in metabolic cages, assigned to one of the six dietary treatments (3 × 2 factorial design): three supplements (not supplemented, olive leaf extract, or marigold extract), and two oils (walnut or linseed oil). The results showed that the marigold extract reduced Zn and P balances and tended to lower the balance of ash and Mg, and the ATTD of Zn and Mg. Diets with linseed oil increased the ATTD of acid detergent fiber and reduced the ATTD of the organic residue and Cu. No differences in the bone characteristics of tibia were observed between treatments. These results indicated that the inclusion of marigold extract had a negative effect on the Zn and P balance, and that neither extract had any major effect on the digestion and utilization of energy and other investigated nutrients, or on bone mineralization, irrespective of the oil source included in the diet.

Novel analysis of maturation of murine bone-marrow-derived dendritic cells induced by Ginkgo Seed Polysaccharides

Our understanding of the mechanisms of effect of Ginkgo Seed Polysaccharides (GSPs) on the immune system remains unclear. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of GSPs on the maturation and function of bone-marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). The results demonstrate that GSP could exert positive immune modulation on the maturation and functions of BMDCs. This effect was evidenced by decreased changes of phagosome number inside BMDCs, decreased activity of acidic phosphatase (ACP), decreased phagocytosis of BMDCs, and increased changes of key membrane molecules on BMDCs. Upregulated production of cytokines IL-12 and TNF-α also was confirmed. Therefore, it can be concluded that GSPs can efficiently induce the maturation of BMDCs. Our exploration provides direct data and a rationale for potential application of GSPs as an immune enhancer in improving immunity and as a potent adjuvant in the design of DC-based vaccines.

A possible new mechanism and drug intervention for kidney damage due to arsenic poisoning in rats

Arsenic poisoning is a worldwide endemic disease that affects thousands of people. Currently, the aetiology of the disease is known, but its pathogenesis is uncharacterized and there is no specific treatment. We established a rat model of coal-burning arsenic poisoning by feeding the animals corn powder baked with high arsenic coal. By observing subsequent changes in kidney and immune function, we found that arsenic induces both kidney and immune damage. Furthermore, there is a significant correlation between kidney and immune damage. Moreover, Ginkgo biloba, a known immune enhancer, was used as an intervention agent in arsenic poisoned rats to validate the relationship between kidney and immune damage. Meanwhile, we also explored the mechanism of Ginkgo biloba treatment of kidney damage in burning-coal arsenic poisoned rats. We found that Ginkgo biloba enhanced immune function in rats with arsenic poisoning and ameliorated arsenic-induced kidney damage. These results suggest that immune suppression may be one of the mechanisms underlying arsenic-induced kidney damage and that Ginkgo biloba might relieve kidney damage by enhancing immune function.

Effects of Tributyrin on Intestinal Energy Status, Antioxidative Capacity and Immune Response to Lipopolysaccharide Challenge in Broilers

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of tributyrin (TB) on the growth performance, pro-inflammatory cytokines, intestinal morphology, energy status, disaccharidase activity, and antioxidative capacity of broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A total of 160 one-day-old Cobb broilers were allocated to 1 of 4 treatments, with 4 replicated pens per treatment and 10 birds per pen. The experiment consisted of a 2×2 factorial arrangements of treatments with TB supplementation (0 or 500 mg/kg) and LPS challenge (0 or 500 μg/kg body weight [BW]). On days 22, 24, and 26 of the trial, broilers received an intraperitoneal administration of 500 μg/kg BW LPS or saline. Dietary TB showed no effect on growth performance. However, LPS challenge decreased the average daily gain of broilers from day 22 to day 26 of the trial. Dietary TB supplementation inhibited the increase of interleukin-1β (in the jejunum and ileum), interleukin-6 (in the duodenum and jejunum), and prostaglandin E₂ (in the duodenum) of LPS-challenged broilers. Similar inhibitory effects of TB in the activities of total nitric oxide synthase (in the ileum) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (in the jejunum) were also observed in birds challenged with LPS. Additionally, TB supplementation mitigated the decrease of ileal adenosine triphosphate, adenosine diphosphate and total adenine nucleotide and the reduction of jejunal catalase activity induced by LPS. Taken together, these results suggest that the TB supplementation was able to reduce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and improve the energy status and anti-oxidative capacity in the small intestine of LPS-challenged broilers.

Effect of Astragalus polysaccharide and its sulfated derivative on growth performance and immune condition of lipopolysaccharide-treated broilers

This study evaluates the immunomodulating activities of Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) and sulfated APS (SAPS) in LPS-infected broiler chicks. SAPS was derived using the classic chlorosulfonic acid-pyridine method. On day 16, the birds were injected intramuscularly with 0.5 mL of either saline, APS (4 or 8 mg/kg of body weight (BW), shorten as APS-4 or APS-8) or SAPS (4 or 8 mg/kg of BW, shorten as SAPS-4 or SAPS-8) once a day for three successive days. On days 19 and 20, the birds were intraperitoneally injected with 0.5 mL of LPS (1mg/kg of BW). Saline was used as blank control. Compared with the blank control, LPS-treated birds showed lower daily body weight gain (BWG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), villus height and intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL) number in jejunum, and higher feed conversion ratio (FCR, feed:gain), spleen index, plasma NO concentration, blood heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L) ratio, and the production of NO in the blood T lymphocytes. Compared with the LPS group, birds in APS-4, SAPS-4 and SAPS-8 groups showed decreased FCR (P<0.05). Moreover, SAPS increased BWG and jejunal villus height (P<0.05) at 8 mg/kg BW. Plasma NO concentration was lower in APS-8 group than that in LPS group (P<0.05). Both APS-8 and SAPS-8 treatments elevated the number of jejunal IEL (P<0.05), and decreased blood H:L ratio (P<0.05), respectively. Administration of APS or SAPS did not affect the ADFI, immune organ index, crypt depth and mucosal thickness of the jejunum, and the number of goblet cell. Our findings suggested that APS and SAPS possessed dose-dependent growth-promoting and immunomodulating effect, and was a potential development direction for immunomodulator under early LPS stimulation condition.