In the heart of Moscow, researchers at the Russian State Agrarian University are revolutionizing the way we think about poultry farming. Led by Marina I. Selionova from the Department of Animal Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology, a groundbreaking study has unveiled the potential of plant extracts to boost the health and productivity of broiler chickens. The findings, published in Veterinary Sciences, could reshape the poultry industry’s approach to growth promotion and disease prevention, offering a sustainable alternative to antibiotics.
The study, titled “Effects of Dietary Supplementation Using Phytobiotics with Different Functional Properties on Expression of Immunity Genes, Intestinal Histology, Growth, and Meat Productivity of Broiler Chickens,” delves into the world of phytobiotics—plant-derived compounds with powerful biological activities. Selionova and her team explored how different plant extracts could enhance the immune response, improve intestinal health, and ultimately, increase meat production in broiler chickens.
The researchers fed chickens a variety of plant extracts, each standardized to different biologically active components. Common chicory with inulin, St. John’s wort with flavonoids, maral root with ecdysterone, and creeping thyme with flavonoids and tannins were among the extracts tested. The results were striking. “The application of the studied phytobiotics increased the expression of the pro-inflammatory gene IL8,” Selionova explained. This suggests that these plant extracts can stimulate the chickens’ immune systems, making them more resilient to diseases.
But the benefits didn’t stop at immunity. The study also found significant improvements in intestinal health. The height of epithelial cells in the cecum mucous membrane decreased, and the depth of crypts reduced across all experimental groups. This indicates better intestinal integrity and function, which is crucial for nutrient absorption and overall health.
The commercial implications are vast. As the global trend moves towards reducing antibiotic use in livestock, phytobiotics offer a promising alternative. “The results of the study indicate the possibility of replacing feed antibiotics in poultry rearing with natural growth stimulants,” Selionova noted. This could lead to healthier chickens, safer meat products, and a more sustainable poultry industry.
The study also highlighted the potential of nutrigenomics—the study of how nutrition affects gene expression. By understanding how different plant extracts influence gene activity, researchers can develop targeted feed supplements that optimize chicken health and productivity. This approach could revolutionize the way we think about animal nutrition, moving away from one-size-fits-all solutions towards personalized, precision feeding.
The findings also suggest that different plant extracts have unique effects. While extracts like chicory and maral root showed significant benefits, St. John’s wort had a less pronounced impact. This underscores the need for further research to fully understand the potential of each plant extract and to develop optimal feeding strategies.
As the poultry industry grapples with the challenges of antibiotic resistance and sustainability, this study offers a beacon of hope. By harnessing the power of plant extracts, we can create a healthier, more productive, and more sustainable future for poultry farming. The research by Selionova and her team, published in Veterinary Sciences, is a significant step in this direction, paving the way for innovative solutions that benefit both the industry and consumers. The future of poultry farming is green, and it’s rooted in the power of plants.