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Factors affecting intestinal health in poultry
1Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2P5, Canada.
Poultry Science
|September 24, 2008
Summary
The chicken gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a complex barrier affected by diet and disease. Antibiotic growth promoter removal may alter gut health and increase disease risks like necrotic enteritis and coccidiosis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Animal Nutrition
- Microbiology
Background:
- The gastrointestinal (GI) tract serves as a critical barrier in poultry, protecting against harmful substances.
- Its integrity relies on physical, chemical, immunological, and microbiological components.
- Dietary factors and infectious agents can disrupt this balance, impacting bird health and productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the chicken GI tract's development, immunology, and microbiology.
- To discuss factors influencing GI tract health in poultry.
- To examine the consequences of removing antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) on gut health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of GI tract development, immunology, and microbiology.
- Analysis of factors affecting poultry gut health.
- Discussion of specific diseases (necrotic enteritis, coccidiosis) and AGP removal impacts.
Main Results:
- The GI tract's barrier function is crucial for poultry health.
- Disruption of the gut's microbial profile due to AGP removal can have significant health implications.
- Interactions between diseases like necrotic enteritis and coccidiosis are exacerbated by changes in the gut environment.
Conclusions:
- Maintaining gut health is paramount in poultry production.
- The removal of AGPs necessitates alternative strategies to manage gut health and prevent diseases.
- Further research is needed to understand and mitigate the risks associated with AGP-free poultry production.
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