Effect of L-carnitine, emulsifier, and their combination on lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide production, and heterophil/lymphocyte ratio in chickens under high altitude

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran

2 Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objective: High-altitude environments pose challenges for broiler chickens, causing hypoxia, reduced growth rates, and increased disease susceptibility. This stress affects their cardiovascular and respiratory systems. This study explores the impact of L-carnitine and emulsifiers on lipid peroxidation, nitrite production (as an indicator of nitric oxide), and the heterophil/lymphocyte ratio in chickens experiencing high-altitude stress.
Materials and Methods: Broiler chicks were raised at high altitudes (2100 m) for 42 days, divided into a control and three treatment groups receiving L-carnitine, emulsifier, or both. Blood samples were collected to analyze nitrite and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio was determined from blood smears
Results: Nitrite levels were increased in the L-carnitine and L-carnitine + emulsifier groups compared to controls, while MDA levels decreased in both treatment groups compared to controls (P<0.05). Additionally, the H/L ratio was significantly reduced in all treatment groups compared to the control group (P<0.05).
Conclusion: This study determined the significant benefits of L-carnitine and emulsifiers in improving the adverse effects of high-altitude conditions such as oxidative stress, vasoconstriction, and hypertension in broiler chickens.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Basic and Clinical Pathophysiology
Volume 13, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
February 2025
Pages 30-35

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