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Early post-hatch fasting induces satellite cell self-renewal
D T Moore1, P R Ferket, P E Mozdziak
1Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7608/Scott Hall, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
Summary
Early fasting in poults reduces muscle growth but preserves satellite cell reserves. This impacts meat production and muscle development strategies.
Area of Science:
- Poultry Science
- Muscle Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Satellite cell kinetics are crucial for muscle development.
- Understanding fasting's impact on muscle is key for meat production and recovery from illness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of immediate post-hatch fasting on satellite cells in turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo).
Main Methods:
- Two groups of poults: fed and fasted (3 days).
- Injected 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) to label dividing cells.
- Analyzed pectoralis thoracicus muscle using immunohistochemistry for BrdU, Pax7, Bcl-2, and myofiber size.
Main Results:
- Fed poults showed higher body and muscle mass.
- Fed poults had greater satellite cell proliferation (BrdU labeling) at 3 and 4 days.
- Fasted poults exhibited higher Pax7 and Bcl-2 labeling, indicating conserved satellite cell reserve.
Conclusions:
- Post-hatch fasting depletes proliferating satellite cells but conserves the satellite cell pool.
- Fasting negatively impacts early muscle growth and mass in poults.