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Effects of different stocking densities on tracheal barrier function and its metabolic changes in finishing broilers
Yuanyuan Wang1, Dianchun Wang1, Jiangshui Wang1
1College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Poultry Science
|November 29, 2020
Summary
High stocking density in broilers negatively impacts tracheal barrier integrity and alters metabolic profiles. Specific pathways like pentose and glucuronate interconversions may help mitigate these adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Poultry Physiology
- Metabolomics
Background:
- Stocking density is a critical management factor influencing broiler welfare and performance.
- High stocking density can induce physiological stress, potentially affecting the respiratory system and metabolic status.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing broiler production and health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of varying stocking densities on the tracheal barrier function in finishing broilers.
- To analyze plasma metabolic profiles in broilers subjected to different stocking densities.
- To identify metabolic pathways associated with high stocking density-induced stress.
Main Methods:
- 1,440 Lingnan Yellow broilers were assigned to five stocking densities (8–16 birds/m²).
- Tracheal tissue was analyzed for inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-10, IL-4) and gene expression (Claudin1, Muc2, Caspase3).
- Plasma metabolic profiles were assessed using metabolomics, followed by pathway analysis.
Main Results:
- High stocking density (16 birds/m²) increased interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-10 concentrations and tracheal mucosal thickness.
- Gene expression showed decreased Claudin1 and increased Muc2 and Caspase3 levels under high stocking density.
- Metabolomic analysis revealed significant alterations in 17 metabolites, primarily involved in biosynthesis and energy metabolism, with pentose and glucuronate interconversions and the pentose phosphate pathway being key.
Conclusions:
- High stocking density compromises the tracheal barrier integrity in broilers, indicated by inflammatory and structural changes.
- Significant metabolic disturbances occur under high stocking density, affecting biosynthesis and energy metabolism.
- The pentose phosphate pathway and pentose and glucuronate interconversions may play a role in the broiler's adaptive response to high stocking density stress.
