The immune system of poultry is one of the most important factors in maintaining health and increasing the efficiency of poultry production. Proper nutrition with the use of essential nutrients, especially amino acids, plays an essential role in strengthening this system. Amino acids, as the structural units of proteins, have significant effects on the growth, production and immune function of poultry.
Importance of amino acids in poultry immune system Amino acids play a vital role in strengthening the immune system through the production of antibodies, cytokines and other immune-related molecules. Some essential amino acids such as methionine, lysine, arginine and glutamine are especially important for supporting the immune system.
- you must: Methionine is one of the sulfur-containing amino acids that plays a role in the production of antioxidants such as glutathione. These compounds help to reduce oxidative stress and strengthen the resistance of poultry against diseases. Methionine also has a direct effect on poultry growth and production performance.
- lysine: Lysine is important in the production of antibodies and strengthening the function of lymphocytes. This amino acid plays an important role in maintaining tissue integrity and repairing damage caused by infection. Lysine deficiency can decrease immunity and increase susceptibility to diseases.
- arginine: Arginine is known as a precursor for the production of nitric oxide, a key molecule in the immune response. This substance helps to improve antibacterial and antiviral responses and has a special role in increasing the efficiency of poultry farming.
- Glutamine: Glutamine acts as an energy source for immune cells such as macrophages and lymphocytes. Also, this amino acid helps to reduce metabolic stress and maintain the health of the intestines and is effective in dealing with intestinal diseases.
The effect of amino acids on intestinal immunity
The health of the intestines plays an important role in preventing pathogens from entering the poultry body. Amino acids create an effective defense barrier by strengthening intestinal tissues and producing protective proteins. For example, threonine has a significant effect on the production of intestinal mucus that has a protective role. Adequate supply of amino acids prevents the reduction of intestinal infections and improves the overall health of the herd.
The effect of amino acids on performance under stress conditions
In stress conditions such as vaccination, temperature changes and poultry transportation, the need for amino acids increases. Adequate supply of these nutrients can reduce the negative effects of stress and facilitate the improvement of immune function. Amino acids such as glycine and cysteine are also effective in managing environmental stress.
Sources of supply of amino acids
Amino acids come from a variety of sources, including:
- Balanced diets: Using diets that contain sufficient amounts of protein and essential amino acids.
- Food supplementsAdding commercial supplements containing essential amino acids such as methionine and lysine to the diet.
- Natural resources: Using natural food such as soybean meal and fish powder.
- New nutrition technologies: The use of enzymes and probiotics to improve the absorption of amino acids and increase the efficiency of nutrition
conclusion
Amino acids play an irreplaceable role in improving the performance of the poultry immune system. A balanced supply of these nutrients in the diet not only improves poultry health, but also increases efficiency and reduces costs related to diseases. Therefore, using nutritional programs based on the real needs of poultry is the key to success in the poultry industry.
References:
1.Li, P., Yin, Y. L., Li, D., Kim, S. W., & Wu, G. (2007). Amino acids and immune function. British Journal of Nutrition, 98(2), 237-252.
2. Wu, G. (2009). Amino acids: metabolism, functions, and nutrition. Amino Acids, 37(1), 1-17.
3. Calder, P. C., & Yaqoob, P. (2018). Amino acids and immune function: relevance to human health. Clinical Nutrition, 37(2), 504-512.
4. Kidd, M. T. (2004). Nutritional modulation of immune function in broilers. Poultry Science, 83(4), 650-657.
