The comparative physiological, biochemical and whole transcriptome analysis of Ross 308 broilers under different wind...

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Production
• Environmental Stress Physiology

Background:

• Global livestock importance of chickens.
• Vulnerability of poultry to environmental stressors impacting growth and stability.
• Need for strategies to mitigate heat stress in broiler production.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the impact of varying wind speeds on broiler chickens under high-temperature conditions.
• Evaluate effects on growth performance, physiological responses, blood profiles, and transcriptomic adaptations.
• Determine wind speed's role in ameliorating heat stress.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 240 Ross-308 broilers divided into three groups: low, medium, and high wind speed (0, 1, and 2 m/s) at high temperature (33°C, 60% RH).
• Monitored feed intake, body weight gain, rectal temperature, and respiration rates.
• Analyzed serum electrolyte levels and performed transcriptomic analysis to identify gene expression changes.

Main Results:

• Higher wind speeds (medium and high) significantly increased feed intake and body weight gain compared to low wind.
• Improved thermoregulation observed in higher wind groups, evidenced by lower rectal temperatures and respiration rates.
• Elevated serum potassium and phosphorus levels indicated enhanced metabolic stability; transcriptomic analysis revealed key heat stress response genes and pathways.

Conclusions:

• Wind speed is a critical factor in mitigating heat stress in broiler chickens.
• Enhanced wind flow improves growth, thermoregulation, and metabolic stability.
• Findings support optimized environmental management strategies for poultry production and resilience.