Immune modulation and cecal microbiome changes in broilers fed with fenugreek seeds and Bacillus-based probiotics

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Immunology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Intensive broiler production faces enteric disease challenges, necessitating alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters.
• Enhancing broiler gut health and immunity is critical for sustainable global food security.
• Fenugreek seeds (FS) and direct-fed microbials (DFM) are explored for their potential benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the combined effects of fenugreek seeds and Bacillus-based DFM on broiler ileal immune gene expression.
• To analyze alterations in cecal microbial populations in broilers fed FS and DFM.
• To evaluate the synergistic potential of FS and DFM in modulating broiler gut health.

Main Methods:

• 160 broiler chicks were divided into four groups: Control, FS, FS+DFM, and DFM.
• Birds received diets with or without 5g/kg fenugreek seeds and/or 0.1g/kg Bacillus-based DFM for 42 days.
• Ileal gene expression and cecal microbiome analysis were performed on day 42.

Main Results:

• Both FS and DFM individually downregulated inflammatory genes (IL-6, IL-8L2, CASP6, PTGS2, IRF7) in the ileum.
• Avian beta-defensin gene regulation was complex and requires further study.
• Cecal microbiome diversity was stable, but specific taxa, including Clostridiales vadin BB60, were modulated, especially by the combination treatment.

Conclusions:

• Fenugreek seeds and Bacillus-based DFM show potential for reducing inflammation and improving broiler immunity.
• The combination of FS and DFM exhibits synergistic effects on immune and microbial modulation.
• Further research, including pathogen challenge models, is recommended to fully understand the combined benefits.