Effects of in ovo injection of microalgae on hatchability, antioxidant and immunity-related genes expression, and post-hatch performance in broilers and Japanese quails

The effects of in ovo injection of Arthrospira (Spirulina) Platensis on hatchability, antioxidant and immunity-related genes expression, and hatchling performance of broilers and Japanese quails was assessed in 2 separate experiments. In experiment 1, a total of 240 fertilised quail eggs were divided into six groups: control (without injection), sham control (0.02 CC distilled water/egg), 0.75 mg Spirulina Platensis (SP)/egg, 1.5 mg SP/egg, 2.5 mg SP/egg, 3.5 mg SP/egg. In experiment 2, a total of 192 fertilised broiler breeder were divided into four groups: control, sham control (0.2 CC distilled water/egg), 25 mg SP/egg, 35 mg SP/egg. In experiment 1, in ovo injection of SP (1.5-3.5 mg/egg) increased hatchability of chicks (p < .01). In the groups received 2.5 and 3.5 mg SP/egg the expression of HSP70 and GPx genes was lower and higher than control groups, respectively (p < .001). The expression of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in the chicks consumed 1.5-3.5 mg SP/egg was higher than control groups (p < .001). The groups received 1.5-3.5 mg SP had lower feed conversion ratio (FCR, p < .05). Catalase activity in hatchlings consumed 2.5 or 3.5 mg SP was the highest (p < .05). In experiment 2, in ovo injection of 25 or 35 mg SP caused the lowest HSP70 in chicks (p < .0001). During the whole period of rearing, feed intake (FI) and FCR of the broilers in ovo fed with 35 mg SP was higher than control groups (p < .01). SP can be considered as an organic supplement in hatcheries for improving hatchability and anti-oxidant status of quail and broiler hatchlings.

Automated summary

The study showed that in ovo injection of Spirulina can improve hatchability, regulate antioxidant status, and enhance performance of Japanese quails and broilers.