Work

Influence of a multi-strain probiotic and zinc-glycine chelate, administered in ovo, on immune response in newly hatched chicks

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: co-supplementation with a multi-strain probiotic and zinc-glycine chelate on the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, acute-phase proteins, and immunoglobulins in the peripheral blood and tissues of broiler chickens on the day of hatching and 7 days post hatching. The effect of supplementation on the growth parameters of chickens was assessed as well. Methods: The study was conducted on 1,500 hatching eggs from a broiler breeding flock (Ross × Ross 308) at 36 weeks. ELISA kits were used to determine levels of acute-phase proteins and immunoglobulins. Expression of immunoglobulins was determined by means of qRT-PCR. Results: The results indicate enhanced synthesis of acute-phase proteins in the liver and increased levels of serum amyloid A in the small intestine tissue, as well as IgA and IgM mRNA and suppressed synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α. During the cumulative experimental period (days 0-42), the mean body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI) in the group supplemented with a multi-strain probiotic were statistically significantly lower than the control group. Discussion: It may be concluded that the combined in ovo use of a multi-strain probiotic and Zn-Gly chelate modulates the immune response, helps maintain the balance between the synthesis of Th1 and Th2 cytokines, inhibits inflammatory processes, and stimulates immune system development.

Source: Frontiers in Physiology

DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2025.1646143