Nutrigenomics of Natural Antioxidants in Broilers

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The broiler industry faces challenges with antibiotic restrictions for growth promotion.
• Phytochemicals and natural antioxidants are emerging as potential alternatives.
• Understanding their impact on gene expression is crucial for broiler health and productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of natural antioxidants in broiler diets.
• To explore their effects on gene expression, particularly redox homeostasis regulators like nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB).
• To examine their influence on oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, heat stress response, lipid metabolism, and intestinal barrier function.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on natural antioxidants in broiler diets.
• Analysis of gene expression data related to oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways.
• Identification of key antioxidant compounds from various natural sources (fruits, vegetables, spices, etc.).

Main Results:

• Natural antioxidants modulate the expression of genes involved in redox homeostasis, inflammation, and stress response.
• Compounds like rutin, curcumin, resveratrol, and astaxanthin show significant effects at the genomic level.
• Evidence suggests a dose-dependent action of these compounds.

Conclusions:

• Natural antioxidants are effective in managing stressors and improving broiler health by influencing gene expression.
• Phytogenic compounds represent a viable alternative to antibiotic growth promoters.
• Further research should investigate their interaction with gut microbiota for enhanced eubiosis.