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Published on: June 18, 2020
Transgenerational epigenetic effects on innate immunity in broilers: an underestimated field to be explored?
T V L Berghof1, H K Parmentier, A Lammers
1Section of Immunology, Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University, De Elst 1, 6708 WD Wageningen, the Netherlands.
Transgenerational epigenetics influences offspring traits through environmental memory. Studies on chickens suggest more research is needed on how parental environments affect innate immunity in broilers.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics
- Immunology
- Poultry Science
Background:
- Transgenerational epigenetics explains inherited physiological responses beyond DNA sequence.
- Parental environmental exposures can alter offspring phenotypes.
- Little is known about transgenerational effects on innate immunity in chickens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of transgenerational epigenetic effects on innate immunity in chickens.
- To propose strategies for studying and modulating these effects in poultry.
- To address the gap in knowledge regarding innate immunity inheritance in chickens.
Main Methods:
- Reviewing existing literature on transgenerational epigenetics and immunity.
- Illustrating examples of transgenerational epigenetic effects.
- Proposing experimental strategies for poultry research.
Main Results:
- Transgenerational epigenetic effects are documented in immune responses in various species.
- Innate immunity is crucial for chickens due to their short lifespan.
- Innate immunity is linked to metabolic disorders in broilers.
Conclusions:
- More research is needed on transgenerational epigenetic impacts on chicken innate immunity.
- Environmental mismatches between breeder and broiler generations may negatively affect immunity.
- Developing strategies to positively influence breeder birds can enhance broiler innate immunity.
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