Valgus-varus deformity induced abnormal tissue metabolism, inflammatory damage and apoptosis in broilers

Area of Science:

• Poultry Science
• Animal Metabolism
• Immunology

Background:

• Valgus-valgus deformity (VVD) is a significant concern in broiler production.
• Understanding the metabolic and inflammatory consequences of VVD is crucial for improving flock health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of VVD on tissue metabolic status.
• To examine the relationship between VVD and inflammation in broilers of increasing age.

Main Methods:

• Collected tissue and blood samples from VVD and healthy broilers at 2, 4, and 5 weeks of age.
• Utilized automated biochemical analysis, real-time PCR, HE staining, and ELISA.
• Assessed metabolic indexes, inflammatory and apoptotic cytokine mRNA levels, histological changes, and serum protein content.

Main Results:

• VVD affected liver and kidney function markers (ALT, AST, Urea, Creatine Kinase) and protein levels.
• Upregulated gene expression of inflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and apoptotic factors (FAS, Caspase-3) in immune organs.
• Increased serum inflammatory proteins (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and decreased immunoglobulins (IgY, CD3+) were observed.

Conclusions:

• VVD broilers exhibit significant metabolic disturbances in the liver and kidneys.
• Immune organs in VVD broilers show signs of inflammation and apoptosis.
• Elevated serum inflammatory factors and altered immune markers indicate a compromised immune status in VVD broilers.