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Reduction of ascites mortality in broilers by coenzyme Q10
1Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100094, P. R. China.
Poultry Science
|September 24, 2004
Summary
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation reduced ascites mortality in broilers without affecting growth performance. Higher doses of CoQ10 showed greater efficacy in mitigating ascites-related issues and improving broiler health.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Avian Physiology
Background:
- Ascites, a condition of fluid accumulation in the body cavity, poses a significant economic challenge in broiler production.
- Environmental stressors, such as low ambient temperatures, can exacerbate ascites development in broilers.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential component of the electron transport chain and an antioxidant, with potential benefits for cardiovascular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on growth performance and ascites incidence in broiler chickens.
- To determine the optimal dosage of CoQ10 for mitigating ascites and improving broiler health.
- To evaluate the impact of CoQ10 on physiological parameters related to ascites.
Main Methods:
- One hundred eighty male broiler chicks were divided into three groups receiving 0, 20, or 40 mg/kg CoQ10 in their diets from day 8.
- Ascites was induced by exposing chicks to low ambient temperatures (15-18°C) from day 15 to 21.
- Growth performance (feed intake, BW gain, feed conversion ratio), mortality, erythrocyte osmotic fragility, blood packed cell volume, pulmonary arterial pressures, right ventricular pressure, and ascites heart index were measured.
Main Results:
- CoQ10 supplementation did not significantly affect broiler growth performance (feed intake, BW gain, FCR).
- Mortality due to ascites was significantly reduced in CoQ10-supplemented groups (P < 0.05).
- The 40 mg/kg CoQ10 dose significantly decreased erythrocyte osmotic fragility and ascites heart index, and reduced pulmonary arterial diastolic pressure.
Conclusions:
- Coenzyme Q10 supplementation demonstrates a beneficial effect in reducing ascites mortality in broilers.
- A dosage of 40 mg/kg CoQ10 appears more effective than 20 mg/kg in mitigating ascites-related issues.
- CoQ10 supplementation may offer a viable strategy to improve broiler health and reduce economic losses associated with ascites.