Long Bone Mineral Loss, Bone Microstructural Changes and Oxidative Stress After Eimeria Challenge in Broilers

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Animal Science
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria parasites, is a significant disease in broiler chickens.
• The impact of coccidiosis on bone quality and systemic antioxidant status requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of varying Eimeria oocyst doses on broiler bone quality.
• To assess the impact of Eimeria infection on antioxidant status in broiler liver and bone marrow.

Main Methods:

• 360 male broiler chickens were orally gavaged with different concentrations of Eimeria oocysts.
• Bone 3-D structural analysis using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT).
• Gene expression analysis (real-time qPCR) and enzyme activity assays in liver and bone marrow.

Main Results:

• Increased Eimeria challenge dose reduced metaphyseal bone mineral density and trabecular bone traits.
• Eimeria infection altered gene expression related to osteogenesis, adipogenesis, and oxidative stress.
• Elevated oxidative stress markers (SOD, HMOX1) and altered antioxidant levels (GSH) were observed in liver and bone marrow.

Conclusions:

• High-dose Eimeria infection negatively affects broiler long bone development, particularly trabecular bone.
• Eimeria infection induces oxidative stress and impairs antioxidant status in broiler liver and bone marrow.
• Findings highlight the detrimental effects of coccidiosis on bone health and systemic redox balance in chickens.