Review on the hepatic osteodystrophy in poultry: From pathogenesis to management implications

Area of Science:

• Poultry Science
• Animal Physiology
• Veterinary Medicine

Background:

• Intensive broiler selection for growth causes bone abnormalities, impacting welfare and economics.
• Broiler leg disorders are increasingly linked to liver dysfunction, affecting bone metabolism.
• The liver synthesizes vital factors (e.g., vitamin D, IGF-1) crucial for bone health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review risk factors affecting broiler bone and liver health.
• To explore mechanisms linking liver dysfunction to bone damage.
• To discuss detection, prevention, and management strategies for improving poultry bone health via liver protection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific studies on broiler bone and liver health.
• Analysis of factors impacting broiler physiology, including genetics, nutrition, and environment.
• Examination of pathophysiological mechanisms connecting liver function to bone metabolism.

Main Results:

• Genetic selection, nutrition, toxins, pathogens, and heat stress negatively impact bone and liver health.
• Liver dysfunction disrupts vitamin D metabolism, protein synthesis, and lipid metabolism, leading to bone issues.
• Toxin accumulation in the liver exacerbates bone damage.

Conclusions:

• Liver health is pivotal for maintaining broiler bone integrity.
• Addressing liver health through improved management is essential for preventing bone disorders.
• Integrated strategies focusing on liver protection can enhance poultry welfare and industry economics.