Beta-glucans induce cellular immune training and changes in intestinal morphology in poultry

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Animal Science
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Beta-glucans are recognized as biological response modifiers that stimulate the immune system.
• Understanding the impact of various beta-glucan sources on poultry health is crucial for optimizing animal nutrition and welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dietary beta-glucans from diverse sources (algae, mushrooms, yeast) on the immune status and intestinal morphology of chickens.
• To investigate the effects of beta-glucans on chicken macrophage immune responses and intestinal development.

Main Methods:

• In vitro studies using the chicken macrophage cell line HD-11 to assess immune gene expression and activity in response to algae and mushroom beta-glucans.
• In vivo experiments feeding chickens diets supplemented with yeast or a yeast-mushroom beta-glucan mix to analyze intestinal morphology.

Main Results:

• In vitro: Algae and mushroom beta-glucans significantly upregulated immune genes (TNFα, IL4, IL6, IL8, IL10, iNOS2), increased nitric oxide release, and enhanced phagocytosis in HD-11 cells.
• In vivo: Beta-glucan supplementation led to significantly increased villi length and goblet cell counts in the ileum and jejunum of chickens.
• No adverse effects were mentioned, suggesting safety.

Conclusions:

• Dietary beta-glucan supplementation positively impacts both immune activity and intestinal morphology in poultry.
• Beta-glucans from yeast, mushrooms, and algae represent a promising strategy for improving poultry health and performance.