Tannins-Based Extracts: Effects on Gut Chicken Spontaneous Contractility

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Drug use in farm animals is restricted, necessitating alternative health strategies.
• Tannins, natural phytocomplexes, offer potential for animal health and human safety.
• Feed supplements are crucial for maintaining animal well-being in poultry farming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of two distinct tannin-based extracts on chicken intestinal contractility.
• To compare the efficacy of hydrolysable (Castanea sativa) and condensed (Quebracho Colorado) tannins.
• To identify alternative feed supplements for enhancing gastrointestinal function in chickens.

Main Methods:

• Studied spontaneous contractility of isolated chicken intestinal tissues.
• Utilized tannin extracts from Castanea sativa wood and Schinopsis balansae hardwood.
• Performed chemical analysis to determine tannin composition (hydrolysable vs. condensed).

Main Results:

• Tannin extracts differentially modulated spontaneous intestinal contractility.
• Castanea sativa extract (hydrolysable tannins) exhibited a more favorable activity profile.
• Quebracho Colorado extract (condensed tannins) also affected intestinal motility.
• Effects were linked to the regulation of smooth muscle tone and food bolus progression.

Conclusions:

• The chemical composition of tannins significantly impacts their effect on gastrointestinal smooth muscle.
• Castanea sativa wood tannins present a promising alternative for improving chicken gut health.
• Tannin-based feed supplements can be a viable strategy to maintain animal health without drugs.