Aflatoxin B (AFB), a potent mycotoxin, poses a significant threat to the poultry industry, particularly affecting the health and growth of ducklings. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of the Tianjihuang compound (HRS), a traditional Chinese medicine formulation, on AFB-induced chronic toxicity in ducklings. Firstly, 30 ingredients, including neochlorogenic acid, kaempferol 3-alpha-D-galactoside, quercetin, hispidulin, caffeic acid, and myricetin, were identified from HRS with UPLC-MS/MS method. Then, over a 25-day experimental period, a total of 100 one-day-old Sichuan Sheldrakes were randomly divided into five groups: control, AFB model, and HRS high (4 g/kg), medium (2 g/kg), and low dosage (1 g/kg) groups. Results indicated that HRS effectively mitigated the negative impact on the productivity, reduced the levels of liver index, AST, ALT, and AST/ALT in serum, increased the levels of serum TP content, and obviously alleviated inflammatory cell infiltration, liver fibrosis, and liver steatosis induced by AFB. Additionally, HRS enhanced the levels of GST, CAT, and T-AOC, and decreased the levels of MDA and AFB-DNA, thereby alleviating oxidative stress and AFB-DNA generation caused by AFB. Transcriptome analysis revealed that HRS may improve liver injury in AFB-chronically poisoned ducklings by regulating the ECM receptor interaction, fatty acid metabolism, cell adhesion molecules, TGF-β signaling pathway, and PPAR signaling pathway. Further RT-qPCR analysis revealed that HRS might downregulate the expression of ASCL4 gene by promoting the activation of PPARα, thereby inhibiting the activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway and improving liver steatosis and fibrosis caused by AFB in ducklings. In conclusion, the HRS exhibits hepatoprotective effects against AFB-induced chronic toxicity in ducklings by restoring liver function, enhancing antioxidant capacity, and its mechanism of damage resistance may be related to the improvement of liver steatosis and fibrosis in ducklings by inhibiting the PPARα-TGF-β signaling pathway.

Accumulating evidence has shown that elevated oxidative stress and inflammatory response leads to hepatic impairment and dysfunction of hens during the aging process. This study was conducted to investigate the potential regulatory mechanisms of Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) in alleviating hepatic oxidative stress and dysfunction induced by diquat (DQ) exposure. A total of 480 48-wk-old Jingbai hens were randomly assigned to 4 groups: control group (Con), L. reuteri group (L.R), diquat-challenged group (DQ), and L. reuteri protective group (L.R+DQ). The results demonstrated that DQ exposure induced oxidative damages and lipid metabolism disorders manifested as the elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, triglyceride (TC) contents in serum and lipid accumulation in liver. L. reuteri supplementation alleviated DQ-induced liver oxidative injury, reflected by repairing the morphology of liver and decreasing the AST and ALT activities in serum. L. reuteri decreased the hepatic malonaldehyde (MDA) accumulation and enhanced the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in liver through regulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) mediated antioxidant system. In addition, L. reuteri curtailed reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitigated the depletion of membrane potential and thus recovering mitochondrial function disturbed by DQ challenge. Moreover, L. reuteri inhibited hepatic toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway activation, downregulated the pro-inflammatory-response-related gene expressions (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6) and the phosphorylation levels of IκBα, and p65 in liver and thus reducing hepatic inflammatory response and apoptosis. Overall, the findings indicate that L. reuteri provides significant protection against oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, inflammatory response and apoptosis caused by DQ in laying hens, and highlight its potential as a therapeutic probiotic for alleviating oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction to prolong the health of aging poultry.

Pigeon meat is highly nutritious, offering medicinal benefits, and is often valued as a tonic due to its high protein and low-fat content. With advancements in breeding technology and evolving market demands, the quality and flavor characteristics of pigeon meat have become key areas of interest for researchers and consumers. In recent years, extensive research on pigeon meat quality traits, has been conducted both domestically and internationally, to enhance the production efficiency and product quality to meet market needs while also providing theoretical support and technical guidance for industry development. This review explores the recent advancements in under-standing the genetic and non-genetic factors that influence pigeon meat quality, focusing on candidate gene markers that guide breeding strategies to enhance meat quality. For instance, studies on genetic factors have identified several genes associated with pigeon meat quality. These include ATP binding cassette subfamily a member 8 (Abca8b), von willebrand factor (VWF), oxoglutarate dehydrogenase (OGDH), TGF beta induced factor homeobox 1 (TGIF1), dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 3 (DKK3), glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate transaminase 1 (Gfpt1) and replication factor C subunit 5 (RFC5) which influence skeletal muscle development, and fatty acid binding protein 1 (FABP1), heart-type FABP (H-FABP), and diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2) which impact intramuscular fat content. Furthermore, the comprehensive exploration of both genetic and non-genetic factors aims to provide a solid foundation and practical strategies for advancing the production and utilization of pigeon meat.

The study investigated gelatin extraction from chicken skin-head-feet (SHF) blend using conventional and ultrasound-assisted methods with food-grade acetic and citric acids. Ultrasound pretreatment was introduced as an intervention in the extraction process, eliminating the need for alkali hydrolysis and significantly reducing the processing time. The gelatin yield, gel clarity, textural parameters, and functional properties were noticeably improved with ultrasound pretreatment. Higher (p< 0.05) solubility was observed in ultrasound-treated gelatin relative to traditionally extracted gelatin at different pH levels. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra revealed characteristic bands corresponding to Amide A, B, I, II, and III. Ultrasonication enhanced α-helical structure by reorganizing protein conformations and stabilizing α-helix regions. The rheological properties, gel strength, and viscosity significantly (p< 0.05) increased with ultrasound-assisted extraction. The SDS-PAGE profile of gelatin was compared with the commercial pork skin gelatin and found to possess two distinct α-chains (α1 and α2) and β chain. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry revealed the presence of collagen α1 and α2 chains as major components. This sustainable approach transformed poultry waste into a valuable resource, fostering the recovery of gelatin with improved functional attributes.

The accumulation of abdominal fat and the metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) are prevalent problems in the poultry industry, and seriously compromise broiler health and reduce economic benefits. Echinocystic acid (EA), a natural product with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, has been demonstrated to reduce abdominal fat deposition and improve intestinal inflammation in mice. However, it has not been reported in poultry research. In this study, we employed chicken hepatocytes (Leghorn male hepatoma cells, LMHs) to construct an oleic acid and palmitic acid (OA/PA)-induced MAFLD model in vitro and 60 male K90 chickens were induced MAFLD by a high-fat diet (HFD) to examine the impact of EA on liver-lipid metabolism and abdominal fat deposition. Moreover, metabolomic analysis, 16S rDNA gene sequencing, and transcriptomic profiling were performed to determine the mechanism of EA. The results showed that EA (10 μM) significantly reduced triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels in vitro. Moreover, EA reduced abdominal fat deposition without affecting growth performance. EA significantly decreased TC, TG, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, and increased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in the blood. Additionally, EA supplementation altered the composition of the intestinal microbiota, particularly by decreasing the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Furthermore, liver metabolomics analysis revealed that EA increased the abundance of metabolites related to arginine metabolism and mitochondrial oxidation pathways, and these metabolites were predicted to be positively correlated with the gut genera enriched by EA. EA also altered the expression patterns of genes related to liver lipid metabolism and inflammation, particularly CYP7A1, CYP7B1, CYP3A5, and ACAT, which are enriched in the PPAR signaling pathway and steroid hormone metabolism. Moreover, correlation analysis revealed that there was a close correlation between differential gut microbiota, metabolites, and gene expression profiles. Collectively, the results indicated that EA may alleviate MAFLD by regulating steroid hormone metabolism and modulating the gut microbiota. EA may be a candidate feed additive to prevent abdominal fat deposition and MAFLD in the broiler industry.

The effects of a reduction in incubation temperature, made to accommodate higher levels of embryonic heat production, on the post hatch body temperature and somatic characteristics of Ross 708 broilers were determined. Incubation temperature treatments (TRT) were a standard (STRT, 37.5 °C) and a lower (LTRT, 35.6°C) TRT provided between 12 and 21 d of incubation (DOI). All eggs were incubated at 37.5 °C between 0 and 12 DOI. Temperature transponders implanted in the air cell of each egg at 12 DOI were extracted and inserted subcutaneously into the neck of the corresponding hatchling to record chick body temperature (CBT) through 21 d of grow out (DOG). After placement, multiple CBT and litter temperature (LT) readings were recorded daily between 1 and 21 DOG, and BW was determined at placement (0 DOG), and BW, body length (BL), and BW to length ratio (BWTLR) were determined on 7, 14, and 21 DOG. Thirteen daily mean CBT readings in the STRT were significantly higher than those in the LTRT between 1 and 21 DOG. Nevertheless, there was no significant correlation between LT and CBT, and when hatch time (HT) and BW were accounted for, embryo temperature (ET) and CBT were not significantly correlated. At 0 and 7 DOG, no significant differences in BW were observed between the STRT and LTRT within either sex; however, BW was greatest in males belonging to the STRT at 14 (x̄ = 483.1 g) and 21 (x̄ = 1,033.8 g) DOG. Across DOG and sex, BL was significantly longer in the STRT than in the LTRT, and at 14 and 21 DOG, BWTLR was greater in the STRT than in the LTRT. The LTRT subsequently lowered CBT and negatively affected chick BW, BL, and BWTLR. In conclusion, CBT is not directly associated with ET, but the reductions in CBT and various performance variables in Ross 708 broilers in response to the LTRT is a result of its adverse effects on chick HT and BW.

This study evaluated the thermal inactivation kinetic parameters of a Salmonella surrogate Enterococcus faecium (E. faecium) during feed manufacture in a university pilot feed mill setting. A batch of 227 kg mash broiler feed was pelleted after being inoculated with 1,000 mL of nalidixic acid (NaL) resistant E. faecium (5.4 logCFU/g) at 70°, 75°, 80°, and 85°C for 0 to 115 s. Bacterial survival cell counts were analyzed by spread plating onto bile esculin agar plus 200 ppm of NaL. Microbial data and thermal kinetic parameters [n=6, Global-Fit and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-Integrated-Predictive-Modeling-Program software] were analyzed by R-software (orthogonal polynomial model). Pelleting mash broiler feed at 70°, 75°, 80°, and 85°C decreased (P < 0.05) E. faecium cell counts by 0.81, 1.18, 1.69, and 1.94 log CFU/g after 115 s, respectively. D-values of orthogonal polynomial, Linear with Tail, Weibull models for E. faecium at 70°, 75°, 80°, and 85°C were 47.1 to 135.4, 42.1 to 135.2, and 51.4 to 118.8 s, respectively. These results suggest that pelleting at 80 or 85°C reduces E. faecium populations the fastest, and it takes at least 50 s to reduce populations by 1 log CFU/g at these temperatures. Thermal inactivation for E. faecium took longer and required higher temperatures in the feed mill than lab estimates, highlighting the importance of testing thermal inactivation temperatures in the field to ensure proper feed hygiene.

This research aimed to investigate the optimization of lipid-based nanoparticles to improve the utilization of n-3 PUFA source in chicken diets. Three groups of slow-growing Korat chickens were reared under the same conditions and fed a diet containing 6 % rice bran oil (RBO, control group), 3 % tuna oil (3 % TO) and 3 % tuna oil in targeted lipid-based nanoparticles (3 % TO-TNP). The growth performance, carcass composition, meat quality, fatty acid profile of breast and thigh meat, hematological and plasma biochemical parameters were evaluated. The dietary lipid source had no effect on the growth performance, carcass composition, or breast and thigh meat quality (P > 0.05). Compared to the control group, the 3 % TO and 3 % TO-TNP groups exhibited lower levels of C18:2n-6 (linoleic acid) and n-6 PUFA (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between groups in the C18:3n-3 (ALA) level in breast and thigh meat, whereas the levels of C20:5n-3 (EPA) and C22:6n-3 (DHA) were higher in both TO groups. However, due to the high temperature required during the drying step of the nanoparticle synthesis process, n-3 PUFA enrichment was more efficient when TO was directly incorporated into the diet than when using targeted nanoparticles. Nevertheless, there was no difference between the 3 % TO and 3 % TO-TNP groups in the n-6/n-3 ratio (P > 0.05). The hemoglobin and hematocrit values were higher in 3 % TO-TNP than in the other groups (P < 0.05). In the plasma, HDL level was reduced in the TO groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05) suggesting a lower cholesterol hepatic synthesis and export. The TO groups had a higher activity of alanine amino transferase but a lower creatinine content than the control group (P < 0.05). The uric acid content was higher in 3 % TO-TNP group than in the 3 % TO group (P < 0.05) but no different compared with the control group. However, the values obtained for the hematological and biochemistry parameters measured in blood and plasma were within the normal range for chickens. To conclude, the supplementation of lipid-based nanoparticles allowed for change the fatty acid composition of chicken meat without any negative effect on production and health status of chickens.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP), a postbiotic feed additive, has potential to improve animal growth and productivity. However, its effects on post-peak laying hens have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effects of SCFP on production, egg quality, intestinal health, ovarian function, and cecal microbiota in post-peak laying hens. A total of 600 45-week-old Lohmann pink laying hens were randomly assigned into three treatments, with ten replicates and twenty hens per replicate. The hens were fed either a basal diet (CON) or basal diet supplemented with SCFP at 750 mg/kg (SCFP1) and 1250 mg/kg (SCFP2) for 16 weeks. The results showed no significant effects on the laying performance (P > 0.05). SCFP supplementation increased Haugh unit, yolk color, albumen height, and eggshell ratio compared to the CON diet(P < 0.05). Hens received SCFP diets exhibited a higher intestinal villus height-to-crypt depth ratio (P < 0.05) and up-regulated the expression of jejunal occludin, zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1), and mucin 2 (MUC-2) (P < 0.05). Additionally, SCFP supplementation increased the concentration of jejunal secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) (P < 0.05), elevated serum levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG, interleukin-10 (IL-10), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) (P < 0.05). Furthermore, dietary SCFP tended to decrease ovarian cell apoptosis and enhanced antioxidant capacity in laying hens (P < 0.05). Compared to CON group, the SCFP1 and SCFP2 groups had lower total bacteria and Escherichia coli, higher Lactobacillus (P < 0.05), and a greater abundance of Streptococcus, Pedosphaerales, Christensenellales, and Prevotellaceae in cecum. Significant correlations were observed between egg quality, intestinal health, ovarian function, and cecal microbiota. In addition, cecal microbial functional prediction indicated that SCFP altered various nutritional metabolism pathways. Dietary SCFP supplementation effectively improved egg quality in post-peak laying hens by modulating intestinal health, ovarian function, and cecal microbiota. Collectively, SCFP could be used as a valuable feed additive for post-peak laying hens, with 1250 mg/kg SCFP showing the better effects.

Fatty liver hemorrhage syndrome (FLHS) is the most common metabolic diseases in laying hens during the late-laying period, and it causes a significant economic burden on the poultry industry. The competing endogenous RNA plays crucial roles in the occurrence and development of fatty liver. Based on the previously constructed lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks, we selected the axis of ENSGALT00000079786-LPL-miR-143-5p for further study to elucidate its mechanistic role in development of fatty liver. In this study, we identified a novel highly conserved lncRNA (ENSGALT00000079786) in poultry, which we designated as lncRNA A2ml2 based on its chromosomal location. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed that lncRNA A2ml2 was localized in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Dual-luciferase reporter assay validated the targeted relationship between lncRNA A2ml2, miR-143-5p, and the LPL gene. To further analyze the lncRNA A2ml2 and miR-143-5p function, lncRNA A2ml2 overexpression vector was successfully constructed and transfected into Leghorn male hepatocellular (LMH) cells, which could remarkably inhibit cellular lipid deposition was detected by oil red staining (P < 0.01), the opposite occurred for miR-143-5p (P < 0.01). qPCR demonstrated an inverse correlation between miR-143-5p expression and lncRNA A2ml2 expression, and confirmed that miR-143-5p directly target lncRNA A2ml2. Similarly, we found an inverse correlation between expression of LPL and the expression of miR-143-5p. To further investigate the interactions among these three factors and their effects on cellular lipid metabolism, we assessed the expression levels of LPL by co-transfecting lncRNA A2ml2 with miR-143-5p mimic and miR-143-5p mimic binding site mutants. Co-transfection experiments showed that miR-143-5p diminished the promoting effect of lncRNA A2ml2 on LPL. Meanwhile, miR-143-5p has the capacity to mitigate the suppressive impact of lncRNA A2ml2 overexpression on lipid accumulation in LMH cells. The results revealed that lncRNA A2ml2 attenuated hepatic lipid accumulation through negatively regulating miR-143-5p and enhancing LPL expression in LMH cells. Our findings offer novel insights into ceRNA-mediated in FLHS and identify a novel lncRNA as a potential molecular biomarker.

Avian coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria spp., is the main parasitic disease in the poultry industry, responsible for high economic costs worldwide. Faced with anticoccidial resistance and societal pressure to reduce inputs in livestock sector, insects could provide a relevant alternative to anticoccidial molecules. The larvae of the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) are easy to rear, and can be used to enhance the value of by-products and food waste. Here, anticoccidial activities of protein extracts solubilized in water and lipid extracts solubilized in methanol of H. illucens larvae were evaluated in vitro. Larvae were either blanched and freeze-dried or dried and pressed. The maximum noncytotoxic dose of each extract (20 g/L and 35 g/L of dry matter equivalent) was assessed in avian cells, using a series of tenfold dilutions. The parasite strain Et-INRAE was modified to express nano-luciferase reporter gene. Parasites were pre-treated with extracts. Then, avian cells were infected and incubated in the presence of the extracts. Inhibition of cell invasion and parasite development were assessed by quantification of the luminescence detected. Lipid extracts and protein extracts inhibit Eimeria growth at, at least, a 10⁻⁶ dilution. Further research is required to confirm these results in vivo, assess potential antinutritional effects, and possibly identify active compounds from fractionated extracts to optimize the observed anticoccidial activities.

Manuscript writing is an essential process in research; it is the vehicle through which knowledge dissemination occurs from experimental findings. This manuscript aims to equip students, researchers, and professionals alike with the necessary skills and insights for publishing in scientific journals. Each section of a scientific paper is discussed: abstract, introduction, materials and methods, results, discussion, and conclusion, along with advice on the order by which these are written. Various techniques are explored to best engage readers and convey research findings in a memorable and impactful manner. Lastly, adherence to journal guidelines is discussed, along with common mistakes made by authors when submitting to journals. The importance of clarity and innovation in conveying research findings effectively is emphasized. Practical strategies for organizing manuscripts and enhancing the overall impact of research publications are covered.

Chickens are covered with feathers, lack sweat glands, and are sensitive to the thermal environment. Previously, our group bred a novel dwarf chicken strain with frizzled feather, named as dwarf chicken with frizzled feather (DFC). The cumulative growth of the chicken body weight and size were analyzed with 3 mathematical models. Subsequently, chickens were grouped to investigate the impact of heat stress (HS) on their slaughter performance, histomorphological development and gene mRNA change (HSP70, muscle development and appetite-related factors) using quantitative real-time PCR, tissue sections and Western Blot. In the HS group, chickens were placed at 34 ± 1°C for 8 hours (9:00 am - 17:00 pm) a day and lasted for 2 weeks, while in the control group, chickens were fed at 26 ± 1°C. Chicken tissue samples were collected at the age of 120 days to evaluate production performance, histological changes, and gene expression changes. Our results found that the Gompertz model was the best for fitting the body weight of DFC. The integrity of muscle, liver, spleen, and small intestine tissues was affected under HS conditions. Correspondingly, the length of the ileum was significantly decreased (P < 0.05), the thigh muscle development factor MYOD1 expression was down-regulated (P < 0.05), while the expression of MSTN was up-regulated (P < 0.001). In addition, the jejunum VH / CD was reduced significantly (P < 0.05). The mRNA of appetite-promoting factors AMPKα-1 and AGRP in the gut-brain axis were down-regulated (P < 0.05), while appetite-restrain factors CCK, GHRL, and CART were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Moreover, the intestinal transport and absorption factors ZO1, OCLN, PepT1, SGLT1, and CAT1 were up-regulated (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), and GLUT1 was down-regulated (P < 0.05). These results indicated that HS mainly impacted the appetite of chickens and did not significantly disrupt the nutrient absorption function of these chickens. The DFC appeared to be more tolerant to the hot environments for their frizzled feathers, small body size, and low basal metabolic rate.

Laying hen responses to supplemental multiprotease on performance, egg quality, digestibility, gut histomorphology, nitrogen excretion, and economic performance of laying hens until 37 weeks of age were investigated. A total of 189 25-week-old Hy-Line Brown hens were housed in enriched cages (7 birds/cage) and randomly allocated to 1 of 3 diets with 9 replicates per treatment. Dietary treatments included: an adequate positive control- PC [met the breed and age standards for crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AA)]; negative control- NC (90 % CP and AA requirement); and NC supplemented with multiprotease - NCMP. Multiprotease was supplemented at 300 g/t of feed equating to 2400 U/kg. Egg production rate and feed intake were not altered (P > 0.10) by the dietary treatments. Between 25 and 37 weeks of age (woa), the NCMP diet reduced the feed conversion ratios by 3 % (1.91 vs 1.97; P < 0.05) in comparison to the NC diet while improving (P < 0.05) the egg weights by 3 % (58.56 vs 56.68); Haugh units by 2 % (91.78 vs 90.20); and breaking strength by 1 % (4.65 vs 4.61). Marginally intensified yolk color and albumen height (P < 0.10) were also observed with the NCMP diet. Furthermore, the NCMP diet marginally improved the villus height, width, and absorptive surface area (P < 0.10) relative to NC. Multiprotease-supplemented NCMP diet improved (P < 0.05) the digestibility of crude protein; and amino acids including lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, leucine, glutamine, tyrosine, relative to the NC diet. Lowered AA/CP diets (NC and NCMP) reduced the N excreted and feed costs (P < 0.05) relative to the PC diet. Multiprotease increased the returns on investment (P < 0.10), and nitrogen retained in egg (P < 0.05) from 25- 37woa. Conclusively, feeding reduced CP/AA diets maintained the egg production rate while reducing the N excreted and feed costs. Multiprotease modulation of ileal absorptive capacity and nutrient digestibility is linked to improved feed efficiency, egg quality, and revenue estimates of supplemented hens.

Broiler breeder fertility is the bedrock on which modern broiler production rests. Over the last decade, fertility and hatchability issues have emerged as key topics of interest for both breeders and producers. In this study, we took an analytical approach to interrogate declining fertility trends among U.S. broiler breeders from 2013 to 2022, leveraging data from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Despite an increase in the number of eggs set and broilers raised to meet the rising demand for poultry, projections indicate that hatchability rates could decrease to approximately 60 % by 2050 without corrective action. Our Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) analysis reveals significant declines in essential production metrics, including hatchability, chick livability, and production efficiency. The analysis also includes 95 % credible intervals that confirm a persistent downward trend across these parameters. We developed the Broiler Breeder Performance Index (BBPI) to deepen our understanding of these trends, utilizing both Gaussian and Cauchy models to evaluate predictive performance. The BBPI projections suggest a decline below baseline values over time, underscoring the urgent need for interventions to counteract the fertility crisis in the broiler industry. Several factors contribute to this decline, including management practices and genetic selection strategies. Effective flock management techniques, such as sex-separate feeding and careful weight monitoring, are vital for improving reproductive viability among broiler breeders. Our findings highlight the necessity of addressing these fertility issues to ensure the long-term sustainability of U.S. poultry production. As the global demand for poultry meat grows, the poultry industry faces significant challenges in maintaining productivity. By pinpointing the causes of fertility decline and implementing effective management strategies, stakeholders can better navigate the complexities of poultry production and contribute to food security. This study aims to draw attention to the urgency of addressing broiler breeder fertility issues. It encourages further research into solutions that can enhance reproductive performance across various genetic stocks in the industry.

This study aimed to explore the effects of chili meal (CM), a by-product of chili pepper oil extraction, on the productive performance, intestinal health, and lipid metabolism of laying hens fed low-protein (LP) diets. A total of 384 Hy-Line brown laying hens (32 weeks old) were divided into six groups: control (CON) diet with 16.5 % crude protein (CP), LP diet with 15 % CP, and LP diets supplemented with 3 %, 5 %, 7 %, and 9 % CM. Results showed that dietary CM supplementation of up to 5 % did not negatively affect the productive performance of laying hens fed LP diets. However, the groups receiving 7 % and 9 % CM exhibited a significant increase in the feed-to-egg ratio (P < 0.05). Additionally, dietary CM supplementation effectively enhanced egg yolk color in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Intestinal morphology analysis indicated that the 5 % CM group had a higher villus height-to-crypt depth ratio than the LP and 9 % CM groups (P < 0.05), with no significant differences among the other groups. Dietary supplementation with 3 %-7 % CM did not significantly affect serum and jejunal antioxidant capacity, and the 9 % CM group exhibited the highest levels of serum and jejunal malondialdehyde among the groups (P < 0.05). Dietary CM supplementation significantly increased anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) in the serum and jejunal tissue of laying hens (P < 0.05). Moreover, CM supplementation significantly altered the cecal microbiota composition in laying hens, increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Desulfovibrio and Megamonas. Furthermore, dietary CM supplementation significantly decreased serum triglyceride levels; downregulated liver mRNA levels of ACC, FAS, and SREBP-1C/2; and upregulated the mRNA levels of ACOX1, PPAR-α, Apob, and CPT in laying hens fed LP diets. In conclusion, CM supplementation should not exceed 5 % to avoid negative impacts on performance while supporting intestinal health and lipid metabolism.

In mammals, tissues other than liver and intestine are known to possess functional MTTP (microsomal triglyceride transfer protein) and apoB (apolipoprotein B) capable of VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein) assembly. Birds are oviparous and possess unique capabilities in lipid biology to accommodate yolk formation through massive deposition of hepatically assembled yolk-targeted VLDLy into ovarian follicles. Following identifications of MTTP and ApoB expression within chicken ovarian stroma, granulosa, theca, and epithelial cells of various classes of follicles, we sought to define the functionality of ovarian MTTP and ApoB in VLDL assembly. In situ hybridization analysis found that ApoB transcripts are most abundant in thecal layers, whereas immunohistochemistry showed that MTTP predominates in the granulosa layers. MTTP lipid transfer activity was greater in small yellow follicles than in hierarchical follicles. Metabolic labeling, electron microscopy, and Western blot studies confirmed the functionality of ovarian apoB and MTTP as newly assembled VLDL around 50-200 nm in diameter and lacking ApoVLDL-II dissimilar to VLDLy, were secreted from cultured follicular cells. Lomitapide and the ApoB-antisense oligonucleotide Mipomersen dose-dependently decreased MTTP activity and VLDL-apoB secretion from cultured follicular cells, while oleate addition or acute heat stress enhanced VLDL-apoB secretion. Ultrastructural images showed VLDL assembly and trafficking toward the secretion route. The findings support the notion that VLDL assembly and secretion within avian ovarian tissues functions as a protective mechanism against fuel and physical stressors to secure follicle development and/or nutritional quality control of yolk for embryo development.

Two in vivo and in vitro studies were conducted to investigate the effects of supplementation of a natural polyherbal mixture (PHM) manufactured from selected herbs in broiler chickens challenged with coccidiosis. For the in vitro trial, E. tenella and E. maxima sporozoites were used to test how PHM affected sporozoites viability at 24, 48, and 72 h. The treatments were as follows: negative control with phosphate buffered saline (NC-PBS), solvent control containing 1 % dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), salinomycin at 12 mg/kg with 1 % DMSO in PBS (SAL), and 500 mg/kg PHM in PBS (PHM). For the in vivo trial, a total of 288 0-day-old male Cobb 500 were randomly distributed into 3 treatments with 8 replicates, and study lasted for 28 days. Treatments were as follows: non-challenge control with a basal diet (NC), Eimeria spp. challenge with a basal diet (CC), and Eimeria spp. challenge with a basal diet containing 500 mg/kg of the PHM (PHM). Chickens in challenged groups were inoculated with 62,500 oocyst of E. acervulina, 12,500 oocyst of E. maxima and E. tenella on 14 days. In vitro results showed that PHM increased (P < 0.001) a Eimeria sporozoite reduction percentage. As for in vivo results, the PHM group had similar body weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency compared to the NC group. The use of PHM reduced fecal oocyst counts of E. tenella and E. maxima from 6 to 9 days post inoculation (DPI; P < 0.05). Moreover, PHM supplementation decreased duodenum and ceca lesion scores (P < 0.001). The PHM group also had reduced expression levels of claudin 1 (CLDN-1), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the jejunum compared to the CC group (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the supplementation with 500 mg/kg of polyherbal mixture both in vitro and in vivo reduced the viability of E. tenella and E. maxima sporozoites, and this could explain that PHM effectively mitigated negative effects caused by the challenge with Eimeria spp., suggesting that it could be a dietary strategy to improve performance and gut health in broilers under coccidiosis.

Chick embryo eggs have a complete system of iron release, delivery, and uptake and thus provide a useful tool to study the fast transportation and absorption of iron. Based on this, the regulatory genes and pathways of iron transportation and uptake at the four key stages of chick embryo incubation, days 6, 9, 12, and 15 (E6, E9, E12, and E15), were investigated. Throughout these four key stages, the iron content decreased in egg yolk, increased in chick embryos, and first increased and then decreased in the yolk sac membrane (YSM) with the highest value of 110.38 mg/kg at E12. A total of 87,499 expressed genes were detected by transcriptome, where the specifically expressed genes at E6, E9, E12, and E15 were 312, 466, 280, and 185 respectively. Mineral absorption pathways involved in mineral uptake, transportation, utilization, and metabolism were significantly enriched in stages E9 to E15. The expression of divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) and ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1) related to iron transportation was up-regulated considerably from E9 to E12. Heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1), FTH1, Solute Carrier Family 40 Member 1 (SLC40A1), and hephaestin (HEPH) mainly responsible for the regulation of iron transportation and uptake were up-regulated from E12 to E15. Therefore, stage E9 to E12 was the crucial period for iron initiation and transportation, and DMT1 and FTH1 played an important role in regulating the initiation of iron transportation at the early stage of incubation.

In order to explore the effects of acute dichlorvos exposure on cerebellar autophagy and cecal microbes in broilers and to analyze the relationship between autophagy-related genes and cecal microbes. Broilers were randomly divided into three groups (with 16 broilers in each group)and respectively given distilled water and dichlorvos (2.48 mg / kg, 11.3 mg / kg). The cecal contents and cerebellum samples were collected after poisoning symptoms of broilers, and the antioxidant indexes such as SOD and CAT in cerebellum were detected. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of cerebellum and cecum, and immunofluorescence sections of cerebellum LC3 were made. RT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the expression of oxidative stress and autophagy-related genes in cerebellar tissue. The cecal contents were analyzed by 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing, and then the correlation between the expression of autophagy-related genes and the abundance of intestinal microbes was analyzed. It was concluded that dichlorvos exposure destroyed the normal morphological structure of the cerebellum and cecum in broilers, which induced oxidative stress and autophagy in the cerebellum of broilers, reduced the diversity of cecal microorganisms, and destroyed the steady state of the cecal microbial structure. In addition, The changes of mRNA expression of autophagy-related genes is related to some specific bacteria. In summary, this study found that dichlorone exposure can cause cerebellar oxidative stress and autophagy, and the mechanism of cerebellar injury in broilers is linked to cecal microbiota changes, potentially offering a new direction for researching dichlorone's pathogenic mechanism.

This study conducted a comprehensive survey of Fowl Adenovirus (FAdV), Astrovirus (CAstV), and Avian Reovirus (ARV) in Brazilian poultry, aiming to understand their epidemiological aspects. A total of 1,988 commercial flocks were analyzed across various Brazilian states, resulting in 4,568 analyses. The findings indicated a 25.5 % positivity rate among flocks showing suggestive symptoms, with at least one virus detected in all industrial poultry-producing states. Single-agent infections were more prevalent than co-infections. Among states with over 100 flocks analyzed, the highest FAdV prevalence was found in Santa Catarina and Paraná, while Rio Grande do Sul and Goiás showed the highest CAstV prevalence. For ARV, São Paulo, Rio Grande do Sul, Paraná, and Goiás had the highest rates. FAdV or CAstV were primarily isolated from the intestine (79.69 % and 78.17 %, respectively), whereas ARV was often detected in both the intestine (58.61 %) and tendons (48.01 %). All positive flocks were under 70 days old; chicks younger than 14 days were more likely to test positive for CAstV, while those aged 15 to 70 days showed higher positivity for ARV or co-infections of FAdV and ARV. Notably, strong associations were found between leg problems and ARV (OR = 5.33) or mixed infections (OR = 10.60), as well as between white chicks and CAstV (OR = 5.15) and diarrhea linked to CAstV (OR = 7.27). Regarding gross lesions, significant associations included gizzard erosion with FAdV (OR = 8.20), liver lesions with FAdV (OR = 4.28), and arthritis with ARV (OR = 2.84). In 2023, FAdV strains identified included Aviadenovirus A (A. ventriculi), B (A. quintum), D (A. gallinae), and E (A. hepatitidis). This research underscores the substantial impact of these viruses on Brazilian poultry farming and emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and control measures to mitigate their effects on poultry production.