Vaccine to fibroblast growth factor 23 peptides increases eggshell strength

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Eggshell quality is crucial for egg producers, impacting profitability and product integrity.
• Enhancing eggshell quality can be achieved through various nutritional and management strategies.
• Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) plays a role in phosphate homeostasis and bone metabolism, potentially influencing eggshell formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) peptide vaccines in improving eggshell quality in Single Comb White Leghorn laying hens.
• To assess the impact of FGF-23 vaccination on plasma phosphate levels, egg specific gravity, eggshell strength, thickness, and weight.
• To determine the effect of FGF-23 peptide vaccination on the hatchability of fertilized eggs.

Main Methods:

• Laying hens were vaccinated with either a control vaccine or one of two FGF-23 peptide vaccines (NP1 or NP7).
• Eggshell and internal quality parameters were analyzed during peak antibody titers.
• Hatchability of fertilized eggs was assessed across multiple incubation periods.

Main Results:

• Vaccination with FGF-23 peptides (NP1 and NP7) significantly increased plasma phosphate levels, egg specific gravity, and eggshell strength compared to controls.
• FGF-23 peptide NP1 vaccination led to increased eggshell thickness and shell index.
• Hatchability was not significantly affected, though NP1 vaccination showed a tendency towards decreased hatchability in one incubation period.

Conclusions:

• FGF-23 peptide vaccines effectively enhance eggshell quality in laying hens, particularly in terms of strength and thickness.
• The observed improvements in eggshell quality were achieved with minimal adverse effects on internal egg quality.
• Further research is needed to fully clarify the impact of FGF-23 peptide vaccination on hatchability.