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The livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) strains are prevalent in the poultry farming environment and are a common component of the bacterial microbiota on the skin and mucous membranes of healthy animals. The origin and spread of LA-MRSA are attributed to the use of antibiotics in animals, and close contact between people and different animal species increases the risk of animal exposure to humans. The epidemiology of LA-MRSA in poultry significantly changed when ST398 and ST9 were found in food-producing animals. The significance of LA-MRSA and zoonotic risk associated with handling and processing foods of avian origin is highlighted by the LA-MRSA strain's ability to infect chickens. People who work with poultry are more prone to contract LA-MRSA than the general population. There is scientific consensus that individuals who have close contact with chickens can become colonized and subsequently infected with LA-MRSA; these individuals could include breeders, medical professionals, or personnel at chicken slaughterhouses. The prevention of LA-MRSA infections and diseases of poultry origin requires taking precautions against contamination across the entire chicken production chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing animal welfare concerns regarding poultry production have led to the rearing of slow-growing meat type chickens also known as free-range chickens. In Zimbabwe these slow-growing chickens are gaining popularity as an alternative to the commercial broiler chickens owing to their preferred sensory attributes comparatively. Little is known regarding the quality of the meat versus that of the conventional broilers. We evaluated the physical characteristics and nutritional composition of meat from dual purpose slow-growing hybrids, Sasso C431 and TR51 in comparison with the commercial broiler breed Ross 308, under intensive feeding conditions. Birds were fed the standard commercial chicken feed produced by Hamara, a local chicken and chicken feed producing company. Birds were slaughtered on days 42, 56 and 70 of life where carcass and breast yield were measured. The pH, drip loss and cooking losses were determined for all carcasses. Proximate composition (dry matter, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate) and mineral composition (iron, zinc and phosphorus) were determined for all the meat samples. The fast-growing broiler breed had a higher breast yield; than the slower-growing breeds, Sasso C431 and TR51 breeds (P<0.05). The highest cooking and drip loss were observed in the faster growing breed Ross 308 and the lowest ones for Sasso C431 and TR51 breeds (P<0.05). Shear texture values were higher in the Sasso C431 and TR51 than the Ross 308 breed (P<0.05). The Sasso C431 and TR51 breeds can produce more meat with a lower fat and a higher protein compared to the Ross breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innate immunity is considered the first line of immune defense and is typically an unmeasured response. Here we report a method for evaluating the innate immune response in chickens by using whole blood which has been activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce IL-6 release by innate immune cells. It was found that a 24-h LPS activation time interval was the optimum time interval for inducing the IL-6 response. An activation index, defined as the PBS activated control response subtracted from the LPS activated response and then divided by the PBS activated control response and expressed as a percentage, was useful for demonstrating and comparing the magnitude of the innate immune response. Results indicated that there was wide variation between the IL-6 response between individual birds although statistically significant results were obtained for all individual birds at the 24-h activation time interval. The activation indices from all birds were greatest at the 24-h activation time interval. Statistically significant results were achieved when all the data from all birds at the 24-h activation time interval were combined. The cells responsible for the IL-6 response were identified as the peripheral blood monocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ciliopathies are characterized by the absence or dysfunction of primary cilia. Despite the fact that cognitive impairments are a common feature of ciliopathies, how cilia dysfunction affects neuronal development has not been characterized in detail. Here, we show that primary cilium-mediated signaling is required cell-autonomously by neurons during neural circuit formation. In particular, a functional primary cilium is crucial during axonal pathfinding for the switch in responsiveness of axons at a choice point or intermediate target. Using different animal models and in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro experiments, we provide evidence for a crucial role of primary cilium-mediated signaling in long-range axon guidance. The primary cilium on the cell body of commissural neurons transduces long-range guidance signals sensed by growth cones navigating an intermediate target. In extension of our finding that Shh is required for the rostral turn of post-crossing commissural axons, we suggest a model implicating the primary cilium in Shh signaling upstream of a transcriptional change of axon guidance receptors, which in turn mediate the repulsive response to floorplate-derived Shh shown by post-crossing commissural axons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A variety of bioactive compounds isolated from various botanical sources have been found to have therapeutic and immunotherapeutic effects on chicken coccidiosis. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the anti‐coccidial potential of Enteromorpha prolifera polysaccharide (EP) in indigenous chickens in Northwest Ethiopia. Materials and Methods: A total of 78 male indigenous chickens were used for this study. The study had two treatment groups: (1) the EP non‐supplemented group (those fed on diets without EP and Eimeria oocyst inoculated) and (2) the EP group (those receiving diets supplemented with 400 mg EP/kg diet and Eimeria oocyst inoculated). Each treatment group had five replications. Following fourteen days of EP supplementation, 1.5 × 104 oocysts of mixed Eimeria species were inoculated into individual birds. Results: EP‐supplemented chicken showed significantly lower (p < 0.05) oocyst counts compared to non‐supplemented ones on 9 and 11 days post‐challenge. In addition, chickens in the EP‐supplemented group showed less severe lesion scores, with an average score of 1.33. Chickens that received EP showed a maximum of 27.27% protection against lesions. In contrast, the non‐supplemented chickens had a lower percentage of protection (19.83%). The maximum anti‐coccidial index value (146.98) was obtained from EP‐supplemented chickens. Chickens in the EP‐supplemented group exhibited a significantly higher (p < 0.05) weight gain. Conclusion: Overall, the inclusion of EP in chickens' diets shows promise as a potential anti‐coccidial strategy. However, additional research is required to explore the mechanisms by which EP in chickens' diet could involve in increasing the protection ability of chickens against coccidiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are essential transcription factors found in many eukaryotes. In this study, the focus is on identifying and analyzing the KLF gene family members in chickens using bioinformatic tools, and comparing them with representative classes such as fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals. The analysis includes the structural characterization, evolutionary relationship assessment, and functional predictions. Additionally, in this study, the impact of miRNA-22 is explored, associated with lipid metabolism, on the expression of KLF genes in the liver, heart, and muscle tissues of Qingyuan partridge chickens. The results indicate that the avian KLF gene family is evolutionarily closer to that of mammals, and all chicken KLFs are non-transmembrane proteins. Moreover, the effect of miRNA-22 on KLF expression varies across different tissues. These findings provide a scientific basis for further research into the functions of KLFs in chickens. Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a class of fundamental transcription factors that are widely present in various eukaryotes from nematodes to humans, named after their DNA binding domain which is highly homologous to the Krüppel factor in fruit flies. To investigate the composition, organization, and evolutionary trajectory of KLF gene family members in chickens, in our study, we leveraged conserved sequences of KLF genes from representative classes across fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals as foundational sequences. Bioinformatic tools were employed to perform homology alignment on the chicken genome database, ultimately identifying the KLF family members present in chickens. The gene structure, phylogenetic analysis, conserved base sequences, physicochemical properties, collinearity analysis, and protein structure were then analyzed using bioinformatic tools. Additionally, the impact of miRNA-22, related to poultry lipid metabolism, on the expression of the KLF gene family in the liver, heart, and muscle of Qingyuan partridge chickens was explored. The results showed that: (1) compared to fish, the KLF family in birds is more closely related to mammals and amphibians; (2) KLFs within the same subgroups are likely to be derived from a common ancestral gene duplication; (3) KLF3/8/12 in the same subgroup may have some similar or overlapping functions; (4) the motif 4 of KLF5 was most likely lost during evolution; (5) KLF9 may perform a similar function in chickens and pigs; (6) there are collinear relationships between certain KLF genes, indicating that there are related biomolecular functions between these KLF genes; (7) all members of the KLF family in chickens are non-transmembrane proteins; and (8) interference and overexpression of miRNA-22 in Qingyuan partridge chickens can affect the expression levels of KLF genes in liver, heart, and muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive antibiotic use in the poultry industry has given rise to concerns of the proliferation and potential zoonotic transmission of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. To mitigate the extent of antibiotic dosing, probiotics have been proposed as an alternate means of enhancing chick immune function by boosting host defense peptide (HDP) production. This study measured chick immune response to in ovo supplementation of a commercial poultry probiotic when subsequently exposed to a mimicked viral threat using polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)). To assess systemic immune responses to these conditions, real-time PCR was conducted to measure changes in expression of five immune-related genes in the spleen: TLR-3, AvBD-2, IFN-a, IFN-b, and IL-6. The chicks that received only the probiotic treatment saw a downregulation of TLR-3 (p50.0013) and an upregulation of AvBD-2 (p50.0105). The expression of IL-6 tended towards downregulation (p50.06) with a potential interaction between the probiotic and poly(I:C) treatments (p50.0794). Upregulation of AvBD-2 indicates a higher basal output of the chick's innate immune system upon early exposure to probiotics. These results suggest that enhanced systemic immune response in chicks can be achieved through early application of probiotics and is occurring through immunomodulation pathways that have not been fully elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and protease activities of red kiwifruit (RK), green kiwifruit (GRK), and gold kiwifruit (GOK) and determine the effects of various packaging methods on the quality of chicken breast injected with various kiwifruit types during storage. The physicochemical and textural properties of chicken breasts containing various kiwifruit types were evaluated. Chicken breasts were injected with brine solution containing 5% kiwifruit powder, and their product quality was measured every 3 days until day 9. GOK and RK addition to chicken breast delayed oxidation during storage. Adding GOK and GRK to chicken breast was found to increase tenderness. Modified‐atmosphere packaging (MAP) delayed microbial growth more effectively than over‐wrap packaging (OWP). These findings suggest that the combination of GOK and MAP potentially extends shelf‐life without deteriorating quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the effects of propofol, ketamine–propofol and isoflurane, at similar anesthetic depth, on cardiopulmonary variables in unpremedictated chickens. Prospective, randomized, crossover experimental trial. A total of 10 male Leghorn domestic chickens, aged 3 months and body mass 1.4–2.0 kg. Birds were randomly assigned to each of three anesthetic protocols, 7 days apart: intravenous propofol, intravenous ketamine–propofol or isoflurane. Anesthesia was induced (indicated by loss of righting reflex and tracheal intubation) and maintained with propofol (10 mg kg–1 minute–1, then 1.1 mg kg–1 minute–1), ketamine–propofol (5 mg mL–1 ketamine and 5 mg mL–1 propofol combined; 10 mg kg–1 minute–1, then 1.1 mg kg–1 minute–1) or isoflurane [5% vaporizer setting initially, then end-tidal concentration (F e ′Iso) of 2%] for 65 minutes. Anesthesia was maintained at a similar anesthetic depth based upon positive or negative responses to toe pinch. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (f R), noninvasive arterial blood pressure and arterial blood gases were measured during anesthesia. Propofol or ketamine–propofol infusion rates and F e′ Iso required to prevent movement in response to a noxious stimulus and recovery times were recorded. Anesthesia induction dose was 9.0 ± 0.8 (mean ± SD) and 12.2 ± 0.3 mg kg–1 for propofol and ketamine–propofol, respectively. Propofol and ketamine–propofol infusion rates and F e′ Iso required to prevent movement in response to the noxious stimulus were 0.88 ± 0.14 mg kg–1 minute–1, 0.92 ± 0.14 mg kg–1 minute–1 and 1.45 ± 0.28%, respectively. Cardiopulmonary variables remained clinically acceptable, but ketamine–propofol was associated with a significantly higher HR (p = 0.0001) and lower f R (p = 0.0001). Time to extubation did not differ among treatments. Cardiovascular and respiratory variables were maintained within normal ranges in all treatments. Coadministration of ketamine with propofol significantly reduced the induction and maintenance dose of propofol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cell cultures are models in biological and medical research to understand physiological and pathological processes. Cell lines are not always available depending on cell type and required species. In addition, the immortalization process often affects cell biology. Primary cells generally maintain a greater degree of similarity in short-term culture to the cells in tissue. Goal of this study was to verify the suitability of chicken primary epithelial caecal cells (PECCs) for in vitro investigations of host‒pathogen interactions. Epithelial nature of PECCs was confirmed by detection of tight and adherens junctions and cobblestone-like cell morphology. Sialic acids distribution was similar to that in caecal cyrosections. To understand the capacity of PECCs to respond to microbial challenges, the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) repertoire was determined. Exposure of PECCs to polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) led to upregulation of type I and III interferon (IFN) as well as interleukin (IL-) 1β, IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA expression. Overall, the PECCs showed properties of polarized epithelial cells. The presence of TLRs, their differential expression, as well as pattern recognition receptor dependent immune responses enable PECCs to act as suitable in vitro model for host‒pathogen interaction studies, which are difficult to conduct under in vivo conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is an extraintestinal pathotype of E. coli that leads to a range of clinical manifestations, including respiratory, systemic and reproductive infections of chickens in both egg and meat production. Unlike most E. coli pathotypes, APEC is not defined by specific virulence genes but rather is a collection of several distinct genotypes that can act as both primary and secondary pathogens leading to colibacillosis. Recent measures to reduce antimicrobials both as growth promoters and as flock-level therapeutics are considered to have led to increased numbers of animals affected. Nevertheless, antimicrobial resistance is a considerable problem in APEC, with resistance to third and fourth-generation cephalosporins via extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), fluoroquinolones and colistin seen as a particular concern. The need to control APEC without antimicrobial use at the flock level has seen an increased focus on vaccination. Currently, a few commercial vaccines are already available, and a range of approaches are being applied to develop new vaccines, and other controls, such as bacteriophage or probiotics, are attracting interest. The lack of a single defined APEC genotype presents challenges to these approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stick-tight fleas, Echidnophaga gallinacea (Westwood), are major ectoparasites of domesticated chickens and can cause serious diseases and even death if left untreated. In the present study the flea samples were collected from three traditional chicken-raising farms in the Al-Baha region. The samples were examined under a stereomicroscope and identified using classification keys. After extracting DNA from the insects, the polymerase chain reaction technique was used to identify the hereditary gene, cytochrome oxidase, present in the insect biopics. The gene was purified, its nucleotide sequence was obtained, and the accession number (OR161051) has been assigned in GenBank. After determining its nucleotide sequence, it was compared with other insects in GenBank, where it was found to be identical (99.82%) to the E. gallinacea isolate from Thailand recorded in GenBank [OQ291364 and MW492259 (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nucleotide/MW492259.1?report=genbank&log$=nucltop&blast%5frank=1&RID=VJR9ZAEE013)]. The match was 94.33% with Echidnophaga iberica from Spain (KF479239) and 93.97% with Echidnophaga oschanini from China (KU880666). The phylogenetic tree also showed similarities between the Saudi Arabian isolates and other isolates. This genetic study of sticktight fleas is the first of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, therefore will be valuable for assessing the prevalence and geographical distribution of this parasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was to determine the number of chickens in intensively managed poultry farms and to assess the relationship between the number of chickens and risk factors in specific poultry farm. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Adele town between December 2014 and November 2015. The presence of oocysts in the fecal samples was examine by floatation methods and post-mortem examinations looked for intestinal lesions. Results: Out of the 262 chicken sample sources examined, 29 (11.01%) were positive for coccidian oocysts, and out of the 84 total Environmental sample source examined, 12 (14.4%) were positive for coccidian parasites. There were no statistically significant differences in prevalence across the sample type and source (p>0.05). There were no changes in the prevalence of coccidiosis between the sexes of birds. P<0.05 indicates a statistically significant difference between the age groups. Furthermore, a strong correlation was found between the sample times. The prevalence of coccidia was considerably higher in chicks than in adults (P<0.05). The environment had a greater prevalence of coccidiosis than faeces did. Of the environmental samples, the majority of coccidial infections are linked to management issues, and the prevalence of water and feed is higher than that of litter material. Conclusions: This study showed that coccidiosis is a significant disease affecting poultry in the studied area and that effective control measures must be developed to reduce the illness's impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Maternal germ plasm determines the germline in birds. Previously, we proposed the chicken-specific Bucky ball (cBuc) as a functional equivalent of the zebrafish germ plasm organizer. This study demonstrated the maternal cBuc synthesis, and verified a highly dynamic distribution of Bucky ball from oocyte nests to maturing follicles using specific antibodies. The dynamic re-localization of cBuc from the ovarian stroma to the granulosa cells, and the Balbiani structure of the oocyte was revealed. Following the accumulation of cBuc in the Balbiani body, an increased signal of chicken vasa homolog (CVH) in close contact to cBuc could be detected. Highest transcription of cBuc was recorded in follicles with diameters up to 500 µm. First RNA-interference experiments in an in-vivo follicle culture assay revealed inhibiting effects on cBuc in small follicles. These data demonstrate the maternal origin of cBuc, and underpin its role as germ plasm organizer.

Abstract Frequent extreme heat events around the world not only pose a major threat to human health but also cause significant economic losses to the livestock industry. The existing management practices are insufficient to fully prevent heat stress with an urgent need to develop preventive medicines. The aim of this study was to develop an anti-heat stress Chinese herbal formula (CHF) via big data analysis techniques and to evaluate its anti-heat stress effect and mechanism of action via pharmacodynamic evaluation and network pharmacology analysis. Many anti-heat stress CHFs were collected from the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database. Three alternative CHFs were obtained via unsupervised entropy hierarchical clustering analysis, and the most effective CHF against heat stress, Shidi Jieshu decoction (SJD), was obtained by screening in a mouse heat stress model. In dry and hot environments, SJD significantly improved the heat tolerance of AA broilers by 4–6°C. In a humid and hot environment, pretreatment with 2% SJD resulted in 100% survival of Wenchang chickens at high temperatures. The main active ingredients of SJD were identified as muntjacoside E, timosaponin C, macrostemonoside H and mangiferin via ultra-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS) and database comparison. The active ingredients of SJD were found to target tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), signal transducer activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Finally, the safety of the new formulation was assessed in an acute oral toxicity study in rats. The SJDs developed in this study provide a new option for the prevention of heat stress in animal husbandry and offer new insights for further research on anti-heat stress.

Burgers are proposed as an ideal way to increase rabbit meat consumption among young people in a context where it is declining in several countries, mainly due to less familiarity with and appetite for rabbit meat and greater demand for easy-to-cook preparations. This study compared the acceptance and preference of commercial rabbit burgers with those of pork, chicken and turkey using an untrained panel of 45 young Spanish consumers (23.5 years; 55.6% male). A first trial evaluated on cooked burgers: a) acceptance of organoleptic characteristics and overall assessment, using a 9-point hedonic scale and b) order of preference of burgers (1st to 4th position). For this purpose, the panellists were presented with a dish with 2  5 cm blind-coded samples of each of the four burgers, randomly placed and to be tasted and evaluated from left to right. Overall acceptance and sensory attribute ratings differed between cooked burgers, except for texture (6.9 points for rabbit burger). Odour was rated better in the cooked rabbit (6.8 points) and turkey burgers, worst in the pork burger, and intermediate in the chicken burger. The colour, appearance, juiciness and overall acceptance of the cooked rabbit (6.5, 6.8, 6.9 and 7.1 points, respectively), pork and turkey burgers were rated better than the chicken burger. The flavour of the cooked rabbit (7.2 points) and turkey burgers was better accepted than that of pork and chicken burgers. The elasticity of the cooked rabbit (6.6 points) and pork burgers was rated better than that of the chicken, while that of the turkey burger was intermediate. The cooked turkey burger was preferred first, followed by the rabbit (second position; average order 2.27) and pork burgers, while the chicken burger was ranked last. A second trial evaluated on raw burgers: a) acceptance of colour and visual appearance and b) order of preference for burgers. For this purpose, the panellists were presented with a dish containing a 3  3 cm blind-coded raw sample of each of the four burgers, arranged in random order, to be visually evaluated in a clockwise direction. The colour of the raw turkey burger was rated best, the chicken burger was rated worst, and the rabbit and pork burgers were rated in between. Visual evaluation of appearance scored best for raw turkey, rabbit and pork burgers and worst for chicken burger. The visual appearance of the raw turkey burger was ranked first, followed by the rabbit and pork burgers, while the raw chicken burger was ranked last. In both trials, the gender of the consumer had no effect, and there was no interaction with the type of cooked burger. In conclusion, rabbit burgers were rated at the same level as pork and turkey burgers and better than chicken burgers, showing the potential to increase rabbit meat consumption among young people, which would benefit from promotion using this presentation format targeted at this specific audience.

Abstract Objectives Chicken (Gallus gallus), as the most economically important poultry, is a classical and ideal model for studying the mechanism of vertebrate developmental biology and embryology. However, the sex determination and differentiation in chicken is still elusive, which limited the application and slowed down many basic studies in chicken. Data description We applied PacBio Iso-seq to multiple spatiotemporal embryo-gonad tissues in the male and female chicken, which contain the blastoderm (E0, un-differentiation stage), genital ridge (E3.5–6.5, sex-differentiation stage) and gonads (E18.5, full-sex-differentiation stage). We obtained 51,479 and 48,356 full-length transcripts in male and female chicken embryo, respectively. The comprehensive annotated and evaluated these transcripts. The 1,293 and 1,556 candidate lncRNAs, 5,766 and 4,211 AS events in male and female. Collectively, our data constitutes a grand increase in the known number of lncRNA, AS (Alternative splicing) and Poly(A) during chicken embryo sex-differentiation and plays an important role in improving current genome annotation. In the meantime, the data will be enriched the functional studies in other birds.

Abstract Both the quality of chicken meat and the quality of chicks are influenced by the level of breast muscle glycogen reserves. In order to study the role of digestive metabolism in establishing this muscular phenotype, we compared two divergent chicken lines for the ultimate pH (pHu) of the breast meat, a proxy for glycogen reserves. Males aged 4 weeks had twice the breast muscle glycogen content in the pHu- line (low pHu) than in the pHu + line (high pHu). The increase in glycogen reserves (pHu-) was associated with a higher relative weight of the proventriculus and gizzard, as well as better apparent ileal digestibility of nitrogen and calcium. The diversity of the cecal microbiota was comparable, but three bacterial genera (Lachnospira, Lachnospiraceae UCG-010, Caproiciproducens) varied between the lines. The differences observed could lead to down-regulation of carbon fixation in prokaryotes and of the citrate cycle in the pHu + line. RNA-seq analysis of the jejunum, the major site of nutrient absorption, revealed 149 genes differentially expressed (DE) between the lines, including several genes linked to immunity, hormonal response and circadian rhythms that are less expressed in pHu + animals. Others involved in cell migration and proliferation, and more generally tissue morphogenesis, also differed between the lines. Among the DE genes, several co-localized with Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) controlling pHu and selection signatures identified in the divergent lines, such as the gene coding for ghrelin, a hormone regulating appetite.

The livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) strains are prevalent in the poultry farming environment and are a common component of the bacterial microbiota on the skin and mucous membranes of healthy animals. The origin and spread of LA-MRSA are attributed to the use of antibiotics in animals, and close contact between people and different animal species increases the risk of animal exposure to humans. The epidemiology of LA-MRSA in poultry significantly changed when ST398 and ST9 were found in food-producing animals. The significance of LA-MRSA and zoonotic risk associated with handling and processing foods of avian origin is highlighted by the LA-MRSA strain's ability to infect chickens. People who work with poultry are more prone to contract LA-MRSA than the general population. There is scientific consensus that individuals who have close contact with chickens can become colonized and subsequently infected with LA-MRSA; these individuals could include breeders, medical professionals, or personnel at chicken slaughterhouses. The prevention of LA-MRSA infections and diseases of poultry origin requires taking precautions against contamination across the entire chicken production chain. [Open Vet J 2024; 14(9.000): 2116-2128]

Abstract Background and objectives Apart from known factors such as irrational use of antibiotics and horizontal gene transfer, it is now reported that clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) are also associated with increased antimicrobial resistance. Hence, it is critical to explore alternatives to antibiotics to control economic losses. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine not only the association of CRISPR-Cas system with antibiotic resistance but also the potential of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) for avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) isolated from poultry market Lahore. Materials and methods Samples (n = 100) were collected from live bird markets of Lahore, and isolates were confirmed as Escherichia coli (E. coli) using the Remel One fast kit, and APEC was identified using PCR. The antibiotic resistance pattern in APEC was determined using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), followed by genotypic confirmation of antibiotic-resistant genes using the PCR. The CRISPR-Cas system was also identified in multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates, and its association with antibiotics was determined using qRT-PCR. The potential of ZnO-NPs was evaluated for multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates by MIC. Results All isolates of APEC were resistant to nalidixic acid, whereas 95% were resistant to chloramphenicol and 89% were resistant to streptomycin. Nineteen MDR APEC were found in the present study and the CRISPR-Cas system was detected in all of these MDR isolates. In addition, an increased expression of CRISPR-related genes was observed in the standard strain and MDR isolates of APEC. ZnO-NPs inhibited the growth of resistant isolates. Conclusions The findings showed the presence of the CRISPR-Cas system in MDR strains of APEC, along with the potential of ZnO-NPs for a possible solution to proceed. This highlights the importance of regulating antimicrobial resistance in poultry to reduce potential health consequences.

Abstract Background Concurrent emerging and reemerging avian infectious diseases cause multiple risk factors in poultry. A body amount studies attempted to understand pathogen-associated immunity in chickens. Recent research has made progress in identifying immune functions in chicken, there are still gaps in knowledge, especially regarding immune responses during infectious diseases. A deeper understanding in chicken immune system is critical for improving disease control strategies and vaccine development. Results This study proposes analytical method for chicken splenocytes, enabling the tracking changes in T cells, monocytes, and B cells across three ages. Optimized lymphocyte-activating conditions were suggested using concanavalin A and chicken interleikin-2, which facilitate immune cell activation and proliferation. Next, splenocytes from embryonic day 18, day 5, and day 30 were compared using surface markers and flow cytometry analysis. We observed an increase in T cell subsets, including activated T cells (CD4+CD44+ and CD8+CD44+), and B cells, along with a reduced monocyte population after hatching. However, morphological changes and genetic expression of functional immune molecules were limited. Conclusions The present findings on chicken immune system development offer valuable insights into the avian immune system, including analytical methods and the phenotypic and functional changes in immune cells. Updated immune-boosting strategies during the early stages of life are crucial for developing preventive measures against major infectious diseases in the poultry industry.

Abstract Background Sodium butyrate is a potential antibiotic growth promoter and has had advantageous effects on the poultry industry. Methods Evaluating the effect of sodium butyrate on the intestinal villi and the humoral part of innate immunity of the male Cobb 500 broiler using scanning electron microscopy and quantitative real-time PCR analysis, the control group and treated group of Cobb 500 with SB supplemented received water containing 0.98 mg sodium butyrate. Results The administration of sodium butyrate changed the villi characters, as the shape changed from tongue to long tongue. They were mainly parallel to each other and long finger-like at the duodenum. The tips of the villi in the control group appeared thin-slight curved with a prominent center in the duodenum, thin rectangular in the jejunum, and ileum in the control group. In contrast, in the treatment group, they changed to thick rectangular in the duodenum and ileum zigzag shape in the jejunum. The epithelium lining of the duodenal villi showed a dome shape, the jejunal villi showed a polygonal shape, and the ileal villi appeared scales-like. The epithelium lining showed irregular microfolds and many different-sized pores, and the treatment group showed islands of long microvilli in the duodenum and solitary long microvilli in the ileum. Real-time PCR of AvBD 1, 2, 10, and 12 significantly (P

The intracellular lipids in muscle cells of farm animals play a crucial role in determining the overall intramuscular fat (IMF) content, which has a positive impact on meat quality. However, the mechanisms underlying the deposition of lipids in muscle cells of farm animals are not yet fully understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the roles of carbohydrate-response element binding protein (ChREBP) and fructose in IMF deposition of chickens. For virus-mediated ChREBP overexpression in tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of chickens, seven 5-d-old male yellow-feather chickens were used. At 10 d after virus injection, the chickens were slaughtered to obtain TA muscles for analysis. For fructose administration trial, sixty 9-wk-old male yellow-feather chickens were randomly divided into 2 groups, with 6 replicates per group and 5 chickens per replicate. The chickens were fed either a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 10% fructose (purity ≥ 99%). At 4 wk later, the chickens were slaughtered, and breast and thigh muscles were collected for analysis. The results showed that the skeletal ChREBP mRNA levels were positively associated with IMF content in multiple species, including the chickens, pigs, and mice (P

We announce the genome sequence of the Staphylococcus gallinarum MTR_B001 strain isolated from the breast muscle of a chicken in 2022 in Bangladesh. This assembled genome had an estimated length of 2,889,393 bp (with 50× genome coverage), 15 contigs, 36 predicted antibiotic resistance genes, and 27 predicted virulence factor genes.

Partridge tea extract (PTE) extracted by hot-water was blended with Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch gum (ASKG) to prepare ASKG-PTE composite films for packaging cooked chicken and extending the shelf life. The morphologies, interactions among components and microstructures of the films were determined by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, respectively. Chromaticity, optical, mechanical, barrier performances and antioxidant activity of the films were also measured to explore the effects of PTE amount on the structure and the properties. The results showed that the interactions among ASKG molecules weakened, the flexibility, ultraviolet shielding performance, and antioxidant activity improved after PTE was added. Compared with ASKG film, the tensile strength of the film was 6.65 MPa, the elongation at break was 76.80% and the water vapor permeability was 1.80×10−10 g/(m·s·Pa) when the content of PTE was 2.5%. DPPH free radical scavenging rate of ASKG-2.5%PTE film still increased by 647.99% under 100 times of dilution. The cooked chickens packaged in the films via heat-sealing were stored at 4 ℃ and the TBARS was measured at the 3rd, 6th and 9th day. It was found that the TBARS was effectively inhibited, indicating that lipid oxidation was delayed. Therefore, the composite films are potential in preservation packaging cooked meat.

AbstractEscherichia coli O157:H7 is a pathogen associated with severe diarrhoeal diseases that lead to hemorrhagic colitis, hemolytic uremic syndrome, and death, especially in immunocompromised patients. The source of this bacterium is mainly beef cattle in which the pathogen seeps into the food chain from improper hygienic practices either during the slaughtering of the animal or during the after-processing. In addition, this pathogen gets introduced into other parts of the food chain such as vegetables and fruits, as well as dairy products. This document presents the first review of articles published on the prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 in foods in the MENA region in the last 20 years. Indeed E. coli O157:H7 was isolated from many foods of plant and animal origin. The presence of E. coli O157:H7 in meat products necessities good cooking procedures for these products to eliminate the pathogen and prevent foodborne illnesses. In addition, the presence of the pathogen in fruits and vegetables which are consumed mainly without cooking indicates a high risk of E. coli O157:H7 foodborne outbreaks. Thus, estimating the prevalence of this pathogen in these types of food will certainly help health authorities impose good agricultural and manufacturing practices to minimize the risk of such outbreaks. In this review, Google scholar and PubMed were used as the main search engines for our literature search using the following key words: Prevalence—E. coli O157:H7—Food—MENA—Meat—Chicken—Dairy products—Beef etc. and the names of the countries included in the MENA region were used as keywords.

Summary: Most dietary fibres improved rheological properties but negatively impacted digestibility. However, the effect of psyllium husk powder (PHP) on digestibility has not been yet reported. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the rheological properties and digestibility of chicken myofibrillar protein (MP) containing different concentrations of PHP (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%) at 0.45 m NaCl. To assess the rheological properties of MP, viscosity, hydrophobicity, disulphide bond, SDS–PAGE, cooking yield and gel strength were evaluated. The addition of PHP enhanced water retention capacity and protein–protein interactions in the MP system. To evaluate the effect of PHP on digestibility, protein digestibility, SDS–PAGE and microstructure observations were performed. It was confirmed that the addition of PHP improved the protein digestibility of MP by measuring the differences in protein content (%). Therefore, the addition of PHP into MP gel improved not only the rheological properties but also the protein digestibility during in vitro digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanosensory hair cell of the vertebrate inner ear responds to the mechanical deflections that result from hearing or change in the acceleration due to gravity, to allow us to perceive and interpret sounds, maintain balance and spatial orientation. In mammals, ototoxic compounds, disease, and acoustic trauma can result in damage and extrusion of hair cells, without replacement, resulting in hearing loss. In contrast, non-mammalian vertebrates can regenerate sensory hair cells. Upon damage, hair cells are extruded and an associated cell type, the supporting cell is transformed into a hair cell. The mechanisms that can trigger regeneration are not known. Using mosaic deletion of the hair cell master gene, Atoh1, in the embryonic avian inner ear, we find that despite hair cells depletion at E9, by E12, hair cell number is restored in sensory epithelium. Our study suggests a homeostatic mechanism can restores hair cell number in the basilar papilla, that is activated when juxtracrine signalling is disrupted. Restoration of hair cell numbers during development may mirror regenerative processes, and our work provides insights into the mechanisms that trigger regeneration. [Display omitted] • Mosaic deletion of Atoh1 in the chick depletes hair cell number at E9. • Hair cells are restored by E12, suggesting a homoeostatic mechanism that regulates hair cell number. • Explant studies show a role for Notch and Wnt signalling in HC restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry meat is an integral part of human diet due to its high protein content, amino acids, low cholesterol, unique flavor, and affordable price. The production of chicken carried out all over the world. In Pakistan, the poultry industry is a notable and dynamic part of agricultural industry. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of chicken consumption in people attending University of Okara. The questionnaire was designed to collect the data of about 500 people. It was found that 34% males and 66% females contributed. People consuming desi and poultry chicken shows significant difference and (166.67 ± 119.30) while the frequency of chicken consumption was (125±92.1710). People consumed chicken showed their interest by buying through different sites (125±127.72). People feel energy changes after consumption and those who felt no change shows nonsignificance. Chicken consumption relation with social bonding and impact on habits show significant differences. The Biochemical analysis including Endocrinology test, Lipids profile, and Liver function of people show variation in both groups. To conclude, mostly people consume poultry chicken rather than desi due to availability. Chicken consumers show positive response according to effect on behavior, but reduced chicken consumption due to increased prices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to develop a protective probiotic coculture to inhibit the growth of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium in the simulated chicken gut environment. Bacterial strains were isolated from the digestive mucosa of broilers and screened in vitro against Salmonella Typhimurium ATCC 14028. A biocompatibility coculture test was performed, which identified two biocompatible strains, Ligilactobacillus salivarius UO.C109 and Ligilactobacillus saerimneri UO.C121 with high inhibitory activity against Salmonella. The cell-free supernatant (CFS) of the selected isolates exhibited dose-dependent effects, and the inhibitory agents were confirmed to be proteinaceous by enzymatic and thermal treatments. Proteome and genome analyses revealed the presence of known bacteriocins in the CFS of L. salivarius UO.C109, but unknown for L. saerimneri UO.C121. The addition of these selected probiotic candidates altered the bacterial community structure, increased the diversity of the chicken gut microbiota challenged with Salmonella, and significantly reduced the abundances of Enterobacteriaceae, Parasutterlla, Phascolarctobacterium, Enterococcus, and Megamonas. It also modulated microbiome production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) with increased levels of acetic and propionic acids after 12 and 24 h of incubation compared to the microbiome challenged with S. Typhimurium. Furthermore, the selected probiotic candidates reduced the adhesion and invasion of Salmonella to Caco-2 cells by 37–39% and 51%, respectively, after 3 h of incubation, compared to the control. These results suggest that the developed coculture probiotic strains has protective activity and could be an effective strategy to control Salmonella infections in poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to determine the effects of various fruit juices used as impregnation solutions on the physicochemical, textural and sensory properties of dried chicken meat cubes. The pH, color parameters, total phenolic, antioxidant activity, water holding capacity, textural (TPA) and sensorial properties of the cubes were tested. Impregnation solutions used in the treatment groups were prepared with pomegranate, black grape and black mulberry juices, and salt solution (control). Impregnation was performed in two replicates and two samples were analyzed per replicate. The cubes were immersed in the solutions and the 10 min vacuum (250 mbar absolute pressure) − 10 min atmospheric pressure cycle was repeated at 4 °C for 2 h. pH values decreased (P < 0.01) by impregnation with various anthocyanin-rich fruit juices. Total phenolic and antioxidant activity were the highest (P < 0.01) in samples impregnated with pomegranate juice and were 720.71 mg GAE/kg and 840.22 mg TE/kg, respectively. The use of anthocyanin-rich fruit juices as impregnation solution decreased a* and b* values of samples (P < 0.01; P < 0.05, respectively). The TPA results indicated that impregnation with pomegranate, black grape and black mulberry juices induced lower (P < 0.01) hardness and higher (P < 0.05) adhesiveness values compared to the control. Consequently, the impregnation with anthocyanin-rich fruit juices such as pomegranate, black grape and black mulberry has the potential to improve the quality properties of dried chicken cubes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Leucocytozoon parasites are one of the important protozoa species affecting domestic poultry and wild birds. Though there are frequent reports about the incidence of Leucocytozoon in wild birds, the information regarding the occurrence of commercial poultry is underestimated. From October 2015 to August 2022, ailing and dead birds from 39 commercial layer flocks were submitted to the Poultry Disease Diagnosis and Surveillance Laboratory, Namakkal, with a history of brief illness, followed by mortality with oozing of blood from oro-nasal orifice. The presence of Leucocytozoon caulleryi was confirmed in all the flocks by laboratory examination and PCR. All the Leucocytozoon-positive cases were reported after heavy rainfall and the affected farms were inhabited with Culicoides flies. The infected birds were dull and depressed, exhibited labored breathing, and blood-tinted ropy mucous from the oro-nasal cavity. Necropsy examination revealed pale-anaemic comb and wattles, massive haemorrhagic clot over the surface of the kidney, peritoneum, and trachea, and scattering of greyish-white/reddish military megaloschizonts throughout the serosa of viscera and skeletal muscles. Histopathological examination revealed many spherical cysts or megaloschizonts in the intestine, pancreas, gizzard, spleen, liver, kidney, heart, and breast muscles. The cysts were deeply seated within the above organ's parenchyma or embedded in the serosa. There was extensive connective tissue proliferation with mononuclear cell infiltration around the cyst. Leucocytozoon-specific DNA was detected in all the flocks by PCR. Phylogenetic analysis of the cytochrome b gene of L. caulleryi reported from various parts of the world revealed that L. caulleryi is grouped into two major clusters (Cluster I & II). Further, Indian L. caulleryi sequences fall under sub-cluster I and II along with L. caulleryi reported from Taiwan, Egypt, China, Myanmar, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) is the most predominant serovar in poultry and eggs, and it poses a significant threat to public health worldwide as it is a leading cause of salmonellosis in humans, which is transmitted through the consumption of contaminated poultry products like eggs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of S. Enteritidis in household chicken eggs collected from Erzurum Province, Türkiye. A total of 168 household chicken eggs were collected from 168 small family poultry farms. Salmonella spp. was not isolated from any of the examined egg internal contents; however, successful isolation and identification of Salmonella spp. were achieved in 4 of the shell samples. Further characterization of the identified Salmonella spp. isolates was performed at the serovar level using 16S rDNA sequence analysis, and all 4 isolates were identified as S. Enteritidis. In conclusion, this study highlights the inherent risk of S. Enteritidis contamination in household chicken eggs and emphasizes the vital significance of implementing stringent food safety measures to safeguard consumer well-being and ensure the protection of public health.

Abstract Background Colibacillosis in broiler chickens is associated with economic loss and localized or systemic infection. Usually, the last resort is antibacterial therapy. Insight into the disease pathogenesis, host responses and plausible immunomodulatory effects of the antibacterials is important in choosing antibacterial agent and optimization of the treatment. Selected responses of broiler chickens experimentally infected with Escherichia coli (E. coli) and also those treated with florfenicol are evaluated in this study. Chickens (n = 70, 5 weeks old) were randomly assigned to four groups. The control groups included normal control (NC) and intratracheal infection control (ITC) (received sterile bacterial medium). The experimental groups consisted of intratracheal infection (IT) that received bacterial suspension and intratracheal infection with florfenicol administration (ITF) group. Results Florfenicol reversed the decreased albumin/globulin ratio to the level of control groups (p > 0.05). Serum interleukin 10 (IL-10) and interferon‐gamma (IFN-γ) concentrations decreased in IT birds as compared to NC group. Florfenicol decreased the serum interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentration as compared to IT group. Milder signs of inflammation, septicemia, and left shift were observed in the leukogram of the ITF group. Florfenicol decreased the severity of histopathological lesions in lungs and liver. Depletion of lymphoid tissue was detected in spleen, thymus and bursa of IT group but was absent in ITF birds. The number of colony forming units of E. coli in liver samples of ITF group was only slightly lower than IT birds. Conclusions Experimental E. coli infection of chickens by intratracheal route is associated with remarkable inflammatory responses as shown by changes in biochemical and hematological parameters. Histopathological lesions in lymphoid organs (especially in the spleen) were also prominent. Florfenicol has positive immunomodulatory effects and improves many of the lesions before the full manifestation of its antibacterial effects. These effects of florfenicol should be considered in pharmacotherapy decision-making process.

Innate immunity is considered the first line of immune defense and is typically an unmeasured response. Here we report a method for evaluating the innate immune response in chickens by using whole blood which has been activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce IL-6 release by innate immune cells. It was found that a 24-h LPS activation time interval was the optimum time interval for inducing the IL-6 response. An activation index, defined as the PBS activated control response subtracted from the LPS activated response and then divided by the PBS activated control response and expressed as a percentage, was useful for demonstrating and comparing the magnitude of the innate immune response. Results indicated that there was wide variation between the IL-6 response between individual birds although statistically significant results were obtained for all individual birds at the 24-h activation time interval. The activation indices from all birds were greatest at the 24-h activation time interval. Statistically significant results were achieved when all the data from all birds at the 24-h activation time interval were combined. The cells responsible for the IL-6 response were identified as the peripheral blood monocytes.

Abstract Background Scavenging indigenous village chickens play a vital role in sub-Saharan Africa, sustaining the livelihood of millions of farmers. These chickens are exposed to vastly different environments and feeds compared to commercial chickens. In this study, we analysed the caecal microbiota of 243 Ethiopian village chickens living in different altitude-dependent agro-ecologies. Results Differences in bacterial diversity were significantly correlated with differences in specific climate factors, topsoil characteristics, and supplemental diets provided by farmers. Microbiota clustered into three enterotypes, with one particularly enriched at high altitudes. We assembled 9977 taxonomically and functionally diverse metagenome-assembled genomes. The vast majority of these were not found in a dataset of previously published chicken microbes or in the Genome Taxonomy Database. Conclusions The wide functional and taxonomic diversity of these microbes highlights their importance in the local adaptation of indigenous poultry, and the significant impacts of environmental factors on the microbiota argue for further discoveries in other agro-ecologies. Video Abstract

Introduction. The intestinal microbiocenosis is the most complex and important bio-tope of the body formed in the process of individual development. Material and methods. The study was conducted on groups of 20-25-day-old chicks. The first group was housed under standard vivarium conditions with artificially maintained optimal climatic parameters. The second group was raised in a rural homestead in the Kyiv region, on pasture with access to water, and fed twice daily with a blend of grains supplemented with kitchen wastes. Samples of chicken droppings (10 per group) were analyzed according to current international ISO standards using certified nutrient media and equipment. Results. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterococcus spp. were isolated from 100% of samples from chickens kept in simulated conditions of an industrial poultry house, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated from 70% of samples. E. coli and Enterococcus spp. were isolated from free-range chickens in 100% of cases. The analysis revealed that in pasture-raised chickens, Klebsiella spp. and P. aeruginosa were absent from the litter, with significantly higher levels of normal microflora (Enterococcus spp.). Conclusions. Backyard-raised chickens showed no pathogenic zoonotic bacteria, in contrast to those raised under controlled conditions with optimal climate and standard diets.

One of the poultry commodities that have a very good prospect to be developed is broiler chicken, because it is supported by the characteristics of its products that can be accepted by all circles of Indonesian society. This study aims to analyze the rights and obligations of the parties (independent and partnership) in the implementation of livestock business, the influence of production factors (seedlings, feed, medicine, labor, technology, independent and partnership business patterns, and land area) on production, and the technical efficiency and economic efficiency of the use of production factors in broiler farming in partnership pattern. The research location is in Semarang City. The research method used survey method, purposive sampling with the number of samples determined as many as 100 respondents taken in each sub-district that has a population of independent and partnership broiler farms in Gunung Pati District, Ngaliyan District and Mijen District. Using mixed method analysis, which is a combination of descriptive qualitative analysis methods and quantitative analysis methods with multiple linear regression transformed into the Cobb Douglas model production function. The data used is primary data collected through interviews to broiler farmers as respondents based on questionnaires, while secondary data as supporting research. The results of this study are the rights and obligations of the parties have been implemented and mutually beneficial. Then, for the factors that affect texturally on production results, namely the amount of labor, the amount of feed, the number of chicken seeds, the quantity of drugs and vitamins, and the status of the farming pattern, while the variables of technology and cage areas have no significant effect. Then, economically, all variables have not significantly influenced in increasing production yields in broiler livestock businesses in Semarang City.

Background. Еhe study of the reaction of the organs of the immune system of birds with nematodes is relevant for the development of treatment regimens. Numerous models have been developed for laboratory animals (mice and rats), carnivores (hori, etc.) and birds (quails, chickens). In the latter, a capsule-free type of trichinella parasitizes, which has a number of reproduction features. In this study, a model of experimental invasion of T. pseudospiralis was used. The role of the spleen in the formation of anti-nematodosis immunity and its reaction to the introduction of the parasite in chicken (Gallus domesticus) has been studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate morphological changes in the structure of the spleen in trichinellosis caused by T. pseudospiralis in chickens in the muscular stage of the invasive process. Materials and methods. By the method of analogues, 2 groups of 6 heads were formed. The birds of the experimental group were weighed and T. pseudospiralis larvae isolate was injected into the goiter at a dose of 2 lich. / g of body weight (3200-3600 thousand larvae per bird). T. pseudospiralis larvae used for experimental infection of poultry were previously isolated from the muscles of birds, and were maintained on laboratory animals. All chickens were kept and fed under identical conditions. In order to determine the distribution of larvae in the muscles of T. pseudospiralis poultry, 6 chickens of the experimental group were euthanized 3.5 months after experimental infection. The birds were removed from the experiment in accordance with the "Rules for carrying out work using experimental animals" and in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki, and approved by the Institutional Review Board. The intensity of invasion (AI, lich./g) for each chicken and the average for the group and AI by the distribution of larvae in the slice were determined. Histological preparations of the spleen were prepared according to the classical method and stained with hematoxylin – eosin. Results. After digestion of muscle mass in artificial gastric juice, the number of larvae was 2570+640 l./g of muscles (average AI from muscle samples of the studied groups), no trichinella larvae were found in the control group. By CT, the largest AI was found in the muscles of the head (5.5+1.5 larvae in the section). The parenchyma of the organ of the spleen is represented by red and white pulp, in healthy birds the area of the red pulp was 10 + 5% of the area of the organ, and the white pulp 76.5 + 5% of the mass of the organ. In chickens infected with trichinella larvae, the area of the white pulp increased dramatically to 90% of the organ area and more. Conclusion. The chicken spleen is actively involved in the pathogenesis of helminthiasis of birds. The follicles of the white pulp, as in the trichinosis of white mice, grow, merging into large conglomerates. In birds, as well as in mammals, the number of large lymphocytes and plasmocytes increases, which indicates the similarity of intercellular interactions and the reaction of immunocompetent cells to the introduction of the parasite.

This study assessed the husbandry practices, egg production performances, egg quality traits, and constraints and opportunities for chicken production in Baka Dawula district. Six kebeles were selected based on production practices and availability of different chicken breeds. A total of 168 respondent households were interviewed and 108 eggs (36 from each breed) were evaluated based on their internal and external qualities. The majority of respondent households (86.9%) practiced scavenging type of feeding with maize, wheat and sunflower supplementation. All the respondent households provided free water access to their chickens. The majority (66%) of respondents kept their chickens in separate houses. The health care practiced was mainly traditional using plants extracts. The main purpose for chicken keeping was income generation followed by stock replacement. The average ages at first-egg laying for local and exotic (Sasso and Bovans brown) breeds were 7 and 5 months, respectively. The total number of eggs produced per hen per year was 206.79, 192.35 and 55.75 for Sasso, Bovans brown, and local breeds respectively. Most external and internal egg quality traits varied significantly (P

In recent decades, a lot of research has been conducted to explore poultry feeding behavior. However, up to now, the processes behind poultry feeding behavior remain poorly understood. The review generalizes modern expertise about the hormonal regulation of feeding behavior in chickens, focusing on signaling pathways mediated by insulin, leptin, and ghrelin and regulatory pathways with a cross-reference to mammals. This overview also summarizes state-of-the-art research devoted to hypothalamic neuropeptides that control feed intake and are prime candidates for predictors of feeding efficiency. Comparative analysis of the signaling pathways that mediate the feed intake regulation allowed us to conclude that there are major differences in the processes by which hormones influence specific neuropeptides and their contrasting roles in feed intake control between two vertebrate clades.

Abstract Background Previous studies have demonstrated the role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation in various biological processes, our research is the first to elucidate its specific impact on LCAT mRNA stability and adipogenesis in poultry. Results The 6 100-day-old female chickens were categorized into high (n = 3) and low-fat chickens (n = 3) based on their abdominal fat ratios, and their abdominal fat tissues were processed for MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq. An integrated analysis of MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq omics data revealed 16 differentially expressed genes associated with to differential m6A modifications. Among them, ELOVL fatty acid elongase 2 (ELOVL2), pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4), fatty acid binding protein 9 (PMP2), fatty acid binding protein 1 (FABP1), lysosomal associated membrane protein 3 (LAMP3), lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) and solute carrier family 2 member 1 (SLC2A1) have ever been reported to be associated with adipogenesis. Interestingly, LCAT was down-regulated and expressed along with decreased levels of mRNA methylation methylation in the low-fat group. Mechanistically, the highly expressed ALKBH5 gene regulates LCAT RNA demethylation and affects LCAT mRNA stability. In addition, LCAT inhibits preadipocyte proliferation and promotes preadipocyte differentiation, and plays a key role in adipogenesis. Conclusions In conclusion, ALKBH5 mediates RNA stability of LCAT through demethylation and affects chicken adipogenesis. This study provides a theoretical basis for further understanding of RNA methylation regulation in chicken adipogenesis.

Abstract Background Virome studies on birds, including chickens are relatively scarce, particularly from the African continent. Despite the continuous evolution of RNA viruses and severe losses recorded in poultry from seasonal viral outbreaks, the information on RNA virome composition is even scantier as a result of their highly unstable nature, genetic diversity, and difficulties associated with characterization. Also, information on factors that may modulate the occurrence of some viruses in birds is limited, particularly for domesticated birds. Viral metagenomics through advancements in sequencing technologies, has enabled the characterization of the entire virome of diverse host species using various samples. Methods The complex RNA viral constituents present in 27 faecal samples of asymptomatic chickens from a South African farm collected at 3-time points from two independent seasons were determined, and the impact of the chicken’s age and collection season on viral abundance and diversity was further investigated. The study utilized the non-invasive faecal sampling method, mRNA viral targeted enrichment steps, a whole transcriptome amplification strategy, Illumina sequencing, and bioinformatics tools. Results The results obtained revealed a total of 48 viral species spanning across 11 orders, 15 families and 21 genera. Viral RNA families such as Coronaviridae, Picornaviridae, Reoviridae, Astroviridae, Caliciviridae, Picorbirnaviridae and Retroviridae were abundant, among which picornaviruses, demonstrated a 100% prevalence across the three age groups (2, 4 and 7 weeks) and two seasons (summer and winter) of the 27 faecal samples investigated. A further probe into the extent of variation between the different chicken groups investigated indicated that viral diversity and abundance were significantly influenced by age (P = 0.01099) and season (P = 0.00099) between chicken groups, while there was no effect on viral shedding within samples in a group (alpha diversity) for age (P = 0.146) and season (P = 0.242). Conclusion The presence of an exceedingly varied chicken RNA virome, encompassing avian, mammalian, fungal, and dietary-associated viruses, underscores the complexities inherent in comprehending the causation, dynamics, and interspecies transmission of RNA viruses within the investigated chicken population. Hence, chickens, even in the absence of discernible symptoms, can harbour viruses that may exhibit opportunistic, commensal, or pathogenic characteristics.

Omics approaches have significantly contributed to our understanding of several aspects of chicken reproduction. This review paper gives an overview of the use of omics technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to elucidate the mechanisms of chicken reproduction. Genomics has transformed the study of chicken reproduction by allowing the examination of the full genetic makeup of chickens, resulting in the discovery of genes associated with reproductive features and disorders. Transcriptomics has provided insights into the gene expression patterns and regulatory mechanisms involved in reproductive processes, allowing for a better knowledge of developmental stages and hormone regulation. Furthermore, proteomics has made it easier to identify and quantify the proteins involved in reproductive physiology to better understand the molecular mechanisms driving fertility, embryonic development, and egg quality. Metabolomics has emerged as a useful technique for understanding the metabolic pathways and biomarkers linked to reproductive performance, providing vital insights for enhancing breeding tactics and reproductive health. The integration of omics data has resulted in the identification of critical molecular pathways and biomarkers linked with chicken reproductive features, providing the opportunity for targeted genetic selection and improved reproductive management approaches. Furthermore, omics technologies have helped to create biomarkers for fertility and embryonic viability, providing the poultry sector with tools for effective breeding and reproductive health management. Finally, omics technologies have greatly improved our understanding of chicken reproduction by revealing the molecular complexities that underpin reproductive processes.

Abstract Background Several core breeding and supporting lines of the Qingyuan partridge chicken, a representative local chicken breed in China, have been developed over 20 years. Consequently, its economic traits related to growth and reproduction have been significantly improved by breeding selection and commercial utilization, but some characteristic traits, such as partridge feathers, high meat quality and sufficient flavor, have always been retained. However, effective methods for genetic assessment and functional gene exploration of similar trait groups are lacking. The presence of identical haplotype fragments transmitted from parent to offspring results in runs of homozygosity (ROH), which offer an efficient solution. In this study, genomes of 134 Qingyuan partridge chickens representing two breeding populations and one preserved population were re-sequenced to evaluate the genetic diversity and explore functional genes by analyzing the diversity, distribution, and frequency of ROH. Results The results showed a low level of genomic linkage and degree of inbreeding within both the bred and preserved populations, suggesting abundant genetic diversity and an adequate genetic potential of the Qingyuan partridge chicken. Throughout the long-term selection process, 21 genes, including GLI3, ANO5, BLVRA, EFNB2, SLC5A12, and SVIP, associated with breed-specific characteristics were accumulated within three ROH islands, whereas another 21 genes associated with growth traits including IRX1, IRX2, EGFR, TPK1, NOVA1, BDNF and so on were accumulated within five ROH islands. Conclusions These findings provide new insights into the genetic assessment and identification of genes with breed-specific and selective characteristics, offering a solid genetic basis for breeding and protection of Qingyuan partridge chickens.

Abstract The myostatin (MSTN) gene is considered a potential genetic marker to improve economically important traits in livestock, since the discovery of its function using the MSTN knockout mice. The anti-myogenic function of the MSTN gene was further demonstrated in farm animal species with natural or induced mutations. In poultry species, myogenesis in cell culture was regulated by modulation of the MSTN gene. Also, different expression levels of the MSTN gene in poultry models with different muscle mass have been reported, indicating the conserved myogenic function of the MSTN gene between mammalian and avian species. Recent advances of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing techniques have led to development of genome-edited poultry species targeting the MSTN gene to clearly demonstrate its anti-myogenic function and further investigate other potential functions in poultry species. This review summarizes research conducted to understand the function of the MSTN gene in various poultry models from cells to whole organisms. Furthermore, the genome-edited poultry models targeting the MSTN gene are reviewed to integrate diverse effects of the MSTN gene on different traits of poultry species.

Objective This study was conducted to investigate the differential expression of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene region in Eimeria-infected broiler. Methods We profiled gene expression of Eimeria-infected and uninfected ceca of broilers sampled at 4, 7, and 21 days post-infection (dpi) using RNA sequencing. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between two sample groups were identified at each time point. DEGs located on chicken chromosome 16 were used for further analysis. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis was conducted for the functional annotation of DEGs. Results Fourteen significant (false discovery rate

1. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) on feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broilers.2. Data from 75,594 broilers were extracted from 17 articles (19 trials) published between January 2010 and March 2023. The main criteria for the publication selection were as follows, at least three treatments applied (negative control group without MOS or AGP versus MOS or AGP supplementation), presence of performance results, and intra-experimental variation associated with the mean of response (such as standard error). Treatments were classified as control, MOS, or AGP, and adjusted means of treatment were compared. Additionally, the average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of each type of supplementation were calculated relative (Δ) to the control group (ΔADFI and ΔADG) and expressed as a percentage of the difference.3. Broilers receiving a diet supplemented with MOS had a 3.7% better BWG and 3% better FCR compared to the control diet (P < 0.001), but these variables were similar to the group receiving AGP supplementation. No significant difference was detected in FI among treatments (P > 0.050). The relationship between ΔADG and ΔADFI was linear for the MOS and AGP-supplemented group (P < 0.050). The ΔADG of broilers fed diets supplemented with MOS or AGP was 6.4% and 4.54% when ΔADFI was zero, respectively. The ΔADG of MOS increased by 0.58% for every 1% of increasing observed in ΔADFI. The corresponding value for the increased ΔADG for the AGP group was 0.69%.4. The results of this meta-analysis indicated that MOS supplementation is effective in increasing BWG and reducing FCR, similar to broilers fed a diet supplemented with AGP. Therefore, MOS is a safe and sustainable alternative for AGP-free poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractNecrotic enteritis (NE) is a severe gastrointestinal disease that poses a significant threat to poultry, leading to progressive deterioration of the small intestine, reduced performance, and increased mortality rates, causing economic losses in the poultry industry. The elimination of antimicrobial agents from chicken feed has imposed a need to explore alternative approaches for NE control, with vaccination emerging as a promising strategy to counteract the detrimental consequences associated with NE. This comprehensive study presents an overview of the extensive efforts made in NE vaccination from 2004 to2023. The study focuses on the development and evaluation of vaccine candidates designed to combat NE. Rigorous evaluations were conducted in both laboratory animals and broiler chickens, the target population, to assess the vaccines’ capacity to elicit an immune response and provide substantial protection against toxin challenges and experimental NE infections. The review encompasses the design of vaccine candidates, the antigens employed, in vivo immune responses, and the efficacy of these vaccines in protecting birds from experimental NE infection. This review contributes to the existing knowledge of NE vaccination strategies, offering valuable insights for future research and development in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]