Combination Effects of Bacillus subtilis and Chito-Oligosaccharides on Antioxidant Function, Immune Function and...

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Broiler production faces challenges in optimizing growth, immunity, and gut health.
• Bacillus subtilis (BS) and chito-oligosaccharides (COS) are known for their potential benefits in animal nutrition.
• Investigating synergistic effects of BS and COS is crucial for enhancing broiler performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of combined Bacillus subtilis (BS) and chito-oligosaccharides (COS) supplementation on broiler growth.
• To assess the effects on antioxidant, immune, and intestinal barrier functions in broilers.
• To determine dose-dependent and tissue-specific regulatory effects of BS and COS.

Main Methods:

• 288 one-day-old broilers were divided into six groups: control, BS (two doses), COS, and two BS+COS combinations.
• Supplementation lasted for 42 days, covering starter and grower periods.
• Growth performance, serum/hepatic antioxidant indicators, immune-related gene expression, and intestinal barrier markers were analyzed.

Main Results:

• BS and COS, alone or combined, improved body weight and average daily gain during the starter period.
• COS supplementation significantly reduced the feed conversion ratio over 42 days.
• Combinations modulated antioxidant enzyme activity, inflammatory cytokine expression, and intestinal tight junction protein expression in a dose- and tissue-specific manner.

Conclusions:

• Dietary BS and COS supplementation positively influences broiler growth performance.
• Combined BS and COS enhance antioxidant and immune functions, with notable effects on hepatic and jejunal gene expression.
• Supplementation improves intestinal barrier integrity, highlighting the potential of BS and COS as feed additives for broilers.