The effect of aflatoxin on complement activity in broiler chickens

Area of Science:

• Veterinary immunology
• Toxicology
• Poultry science

Background:

• Aflatoxins are toxic metabolites produced by certain fungi.
• Immunosuppression by mycotoxins is a significant concern in poultry production.
• Complement (C) is a crucial component of the innate and adaptive immune systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of dietary aflatoxin on the total complement activity in broiler chickens.
• To determine if aflatoxin exposure impacts humoral immune function in poultry.

Main Methods:

• Broiler chickens were fed diets containing varying levels of aflatoxin (0.625, 1.25, or 2.5 µg/g) from 1 to 42 days of age.
• Serum was collected at 14-day intervals for total complement (C) activity assays using a radial hemolytic procedure.
• Complement titers were compared between treatment groups and control groups, with segregation by sex.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in C titers were observed between male and female chickens within the same age group.
• Significant reductions in mean C titers were found in chickens fed 2.5 µg/g aflatoxin compared to control groups.
• A dose-dependent effect of aflatoxin on complement activity was suggested, with higher levels causing more pronounced effects.

Conclusions:

• Dietary aflatoxin exposure can suppress the humoral immune response in broiler chickens, specifically affecting complement activity.
• The immunosuppressive effect of aflatoxin is evident at a dose of 2.5 µg/g in feed.
• These findings highlight the potential risks of aflatoxin contamination in poultry feed for immune health.