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Volume 15 (2); June 2025

-The Interplay of Litter Types, Blends of L-selenomethionine, and Vitamin E in Broiler Chicken’s Performance and Health

Research Paper

The Interplay of Litter Types, Blends of L-selenomethionine, and Vitamin E in Broiler Chicken’s Performance and Health

Rady EM, EL-Gendi G, El-Garhy O, and Okasha H.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 139-150, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500014-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.14

ABSTRACT: The choice of litter type (LT) in broiler chicken production can significantly influence overall performance and health. Adding specific combinations of L-selenomethionine and Vitamin E (L-SeMet + V.E) to drinking water can impact broiler chickens’ health. This study aimed to explore the effects of two LT types, wood shavings (WS) and perforated plastic litter (PL) as well as water supplementation with L-SeMet + V.E, on growth performance, blood parameters, antioxidant capacity, and thyroid hormone levels in broiler chickens. A total of 312 one-day-old male broiler chickens were randomly assigned to two different LT groups (WS and PL), with 156 chicks in each. Within each LT group, the chickens were further divided into four subgroups: a control group (T0) that received plain water, and three treatment groups that received drinking water supplements. Each subgroup consisted of three replicates, with 13 broiler chickens per replicate. The water treatments involved varying levels of supplementation with L-SeMet and vitamin E: T1 (0.5 mg/L + 250 mg/L), T2 (1 mg/L + 250 mg/L), and T3 (1.5 mg/L + 250 mg/L). Chickens were assessed for growth performance, feed efficiency, and blood biochemical parameters including lipids, liver enzymes, antioxidants, and thyroid hormones. Chickens raised on PL and receiving T3 exhibited significantly enhanced performance and feed efficiency, outperforming those raised on WS and given different supplementation levels. Significant enhancements were observed in the blood lipid profile and liver enzyme levels across the different LT groups, with the highest values recorded in the PL group. Additionally, broiler chicken in the T2 group, along with the WS × T2 and PL × T3 interactions, showed a notable improvement in blood biochemical parameters. Similarly, chickens raised on PL and given T3-supplemented water, along with the interactions WS × T2 and PL × T3, showed a significant improvement in antioxidant status and thyroid hormone levels in comparison to chickens raised on WS and the other treatment combinations. The use of PL and supplemenation with L-SeMet + V.E in drinking water were found to enhance growth performance, improve blood parameters, increase antioxidant capacity, and influence thyroid hormone levels in broiler chickens.
Keywords: Antioxidant, Broiler chicken, L-selenomethionine and Vitamin E, Productivity, Thyroid hormone

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Effects of Dietary Inclusion of Maggot (Hermetia illucens) and Corn on Productivity of Starter-Stage Native Chickens

Research Paper

Effects of Dietary Inclusion of Maggot (Hermetia illucens) and Corn on Productivity of Starter-Stage Native Chickens

Panuntun S, Utama C, and Sulistiyanto B.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 151-157, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500015-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.15

ABSTRACT: Native chickens require innovative feeding strategies to enhance productivity. This study aimed to examine the dietary effects of using maggot and corn meal (MCM) on the performance and feed digestibility of native chickens. The study used a complete randomized design, with a total of 200 one-day-old native chicks randomly allocated into four groups, each with five replicates. The first group received 100% basal feed (T0). The second group received 95% basal feed and 5% MCM (T1), the third group received 90% basal feed and 10% MCM (T2), and the fourth group received 85% basal feed and 15% MCM (T3). Group T1 exhibited significantly higher live weight, daily body weight gain, crude protein digestibility, crude fiber digestibility, and crude fat digestibility compared to other treatments. The T3 group showed the highest feed intake, whereas the best feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in the T0 group. It is concluded that a 5% inclusion of MCM in the feed has beneficial effecta on growth performance and digestibility of native chickens.
Keywords: Black soldier fly, Combination feed, Corn, Digestibility, Native chicken, Performance

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Obtaining High Yields of Bacillus species During Solid-State Fermentation of Plant Raw Materials for Use as a Feed Additive

Research Paper

Obtaining High Yields of Bacillus species During Solid-State Fermentation of Plant Raw Materials for Use as a Feed Additive

Khardziani T, Metreveli E, and Elisashvili V.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 158-165, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500016-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.16

ABSTRACT: Bacillus spp. are a natural alternative to antibiotic therapy and are most suitable for use as probiotic feed additives to improve the growth and productivity of farm animals. The present study aimed to establish culture conditions suitable for the maximal production of probiotic bacteria spores and enzymes of Bacillus subtilis IMB-73 and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens IMB-79 in solid-state fermentation (SSF) of wheat bran, soybean flour, and cilantro. The tested lignocellulosic materials ensured rapid and abundant growth of bacilli; however, wheat bran proved to be the most suitable growth substrate, yielding the highest spore counts of 5.1 × 10¹¹/g and 5.5 × 10¹¹/g in the cultivation of B. amyloliquefaciens IMB-79 and B. subtilis IMB-73, respectively. Supplementation of an additional nitrogen source to the wheat bran medium resulted in a significant increase in spore productivity. In particular, peptone at a concentration of 67 mg/g substrate provided the maximum spore yield in the fermented product. Both strains secreted high endoglucanase and xylanase activities in the SSF of wheat bran. Additional nitrogen sources slightly suppressed the secretion of enzymes during the SSF of wheat bran by B. subtilis IMB-73 but increased cellulase activity in cilantro SSF by approximately 2-5 times. The ease of production and the high spore yield achieved by scaling up production in polypropylene bags demonstrated the feasibility of using the developed technology for commercialization on local agricultural farms.
Keywords: Bacillus, Cellulase, Lignocellulose fermentation, Probiotic, Spore production

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Biosecurity and Health Management Practices in Duck Farming in Coastal and Haor Regions of Bangladesh

Research Paper

Biosecurity and Health Management Practices in Duck Farming in Coastal and Haor Regions of Bangladesh

Islam S, Islam MA, Sultana S, Sarker MSK, and Khatun R.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 166-174, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500017-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.17

ABSTRACT: Duck farming has become a profitable venture in Bangladesh due to its economic potential and adaptability. This study aimed to assess the current state of native duck health, disease prevalence, and biosecurity management in selected regions of Bangladesh. Data were collected from 180 duck-rearing farmers from six upazilas of the Coastal and Haor regions using a standard questionnaire. The study investigated vaccination practices, disease prevalence, biosecurity management, and available treatment facilities. Approximately 60% of farmers in the Haor regions and 40 % in the Coastal regions reported vaccinating their ducks, while 56.67% in Haor and 34.44% in Coastal regions practiced deworming. Duck plague was the most prevalent disease in duck farms, with 83.33% and 90.00% prevalence rates in the Haor and Coastal areas, respectively. In the Haor region, 81.11% of farms reported disease incidence among growing ducks. Disease outbreaks (Duck plague and Cholera) were highest during the monsoon season at 77.78% of farms in Haor areas. In the Coastal region, 63.33% of farmers reported a higher duckling mortality rate. The frequent contact between ducks and wild birds was more common in Haor areas, as indicated by 32.22% of farmers. Disease outbreaks were identified as the major constraint to duck farming, and affordable feed price was the most pressing concern in both study areas. Despite these challenges, improvements in disease management, vaccination coverage, and biosecurity measures, alongside efforts to reduce feed costs, could significantly enhance the sector’s growth. It can be concluded that duck farming holds considerable potential and promising opportunities in the Haor and Coastal regions of Bangladesh.
Keywords: Biosecurity practice, Constraint, Deworming, Disease management, Vaccination

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External and Internal Quality Characteristics of Eggs Sourced in Supermarkets, General Dealers, and Vendors in Gaborone, Botswana

Research Paper

External and Internal Quality Characteristics of Eggs Sourced in Supermarkets, General Dealers, and Vendors in Gaborone, Botswana

Moreki JC, Motiki BK, Bhawa S, and Manyeula F.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 175-183, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500018-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.18

ABSTRACT: Egg quality characteristics influence consumer acceptance and preference of one egg over another. Several factors that impact egg quality include storage before and after dispatch, rearing conditions, temperature, handling, diseases, and the age of the eggs. The present study evaluated internal and external quality traits of eggs sourced from supermarkets, general dealers, and vendors in Gaborone, Botswana. One hundred and twenty eggs (24 eggs per location) were sourced from four supermarkets, seven general dealers, and 10 vendors in Gaborone. Parameters measured were egg weight (g), length (mm), width (mm), average shell thickness (mm), shell weight (g), surface area (cm²), volume (cm³), shape index, Haugh unit (HU), and shell weight per unit surface area (SWUSA, mg/cm²) of the eggs. The current results indicated that egg weight and surface area were the highest for eggs sourced from supermarkets. Heavier eggs correlated with better HU scores, indicating richer and denser yolk, while surface area plays a role in moisture loss and potential shell strength. Eggs purchased from supermarkets and general dealers had noticeably greater egg weights, egg volumes, shell percentages, and SWUSA. Eggs from supermarkets had the greatest egg content weight, whereas those purchased from vendors had the lowest. The HU was highest for supermarket eggs compared to other egg sources. It was observed that eggs bought from supermarkets had superior internal and external quality traits compared to those from general dealers and vendors. It was concluded that eggs from vendors had lower quality due to inadequate storage and cooling facilities compared to supermarkets and general dealers.
Keywords: External quality, Haugh unit, Internal quality, Supermarket, Vendor

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Effects of Supplementation of Oregano Essential Oil on the Growth Efficiency and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Broiler Chickens

Research Paper

Effects of Supplementation of Oregano Essential Oil on the Growth Efficiency and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Broiler Chickens

Islam MS, Mir DA, Nazir ME, Islam S, Hossain SMI, Hasan MI, Zaman S, Swar DK, and Sultana S.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 184-193, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500019-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.19

ABSTRACT: Oregano essential oil (OEO) has emerged as a safe, effective, and bioactive additive, increasingly incorporated into feed formulations to enhance the growth performance and overall well-being of broiler chickens. This experiment aimed to investigate the consequences of the dietary supplementation of OEO regarding the growth efficiency, carcass characteristics, and blood biochemical profiles of broiler chickens. The 35-day feeding trial involved 200 unsexed Hubbard Classic broiler chickens with an average initial body weight of 42.79 g. The broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four experimental groups, each comprising five replicates of ten birds. The treatment groups were fed basal diets supplemented with 300 mg/kg (OEO_-1), 400 mg/kg (OEO_-2), and 500 mg/kg (OEO_-3) of OEO, while the untreated group (OEO_-0) was fed a basal diet without any additives. Weekly assessments of growth performance metrics were conducted for 5 weeks, and blood parameters were examined once on day 35. The results revealed that OEO_-3treatment had a significant impact on the body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio of broilers. A considerably increased dressing percentage was observed in the OEO_-3 group. The findings indicated that OEO-supplemented groups significantly influenced both high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, especially OEO_-3, whichshowed higher HDL and lower LDL levels compared to other treatment and control groups. However, no significant effect was observed on total blood cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in the experimental broilers. Incorporating OEO into the diet suggested that the higher doses (500 mg/kg) enhanced growth efficiency, increased HDL cholesterol, and decreased LDL and triglycerides in the blood of broiler chickens.
Keywords: Blood parameter, Broiler chicken, Feed conversion ratio, Growth efficiency, Oregano oil

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Impact of Polyherbal Formulation on Transcriptome Profiling of Chicken Breast Muscle: Elucidation of Molecular Mechanisms for the Enhanced Cellular Feed Efficiency in Broiler Chickens

Research Paper

Impact of Polyherbal Formulation on Transcriptome Profiling of Chicken Breast Muscle: Elucidation of Molecular Mechanisms for the Enhanced Cellular Feed Efficiency in Broiler Chickens

Marimuthu S, Suresh S, and D'Souza P.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 194-207, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500020-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.20

ABSTRACT: To elucidate the cellular mechanisms underlying feed efficiency (FE) enhanced by polyherbal formulation (PHF), a combination of Andrographis paniculata, Punica granatum, and Emblica officinalis, the microarray technology was used to identify the genetic pathways related to feed utilization through genomical profiling of breast muscle in Cobb broiler chickens supplemented with or without PHF. 300 male day-old chicks were randomly distributed into two groups of 6 replicates with 25 each, including control (basal-diet) and PHF (Basal-diet+PHF-400g/ton), and their impact on performance parameters was assessed on day 42. Similarly, the global gene expression of breast muscles collected in each group was profiled using Agilent chicken whole genome microarray technology. Further, the Database for Annotation Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) Bioinformatics Resources and gene ontology (GO) analysis were used to identify the functional clustering of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and gene network pathways associated with FE. RT-qPCR was subsequently conducted to cross-validate the expression of genes identified by DAVID. The PHF supplementation significantly improved the body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio in broilers compared to the control. Totally, 1338 DEGs (756 up-regulated and 582 down-regulated) were identified, of which 732 DEGs of PHF were significantly different from the control group. However, bioinformatics analysis revealed a significant modulation of 198 DEGs (94 up-regulated and 104 down-regulated) after hierarchical clustering, whose collective expression indicates significant enrichment of FE-related biological processes in the PHF-treated group. Further, a deeper understanding of the following DEGs (ND1, ND2, ND3, ND4, ND4L, ND5, ND6 CYTB, COX1, COX2, COX3, ATP6, PGC1-α, PPAR, MEF2, PARK2, Wnt3A, Wnt11, Golgb1, and IGF1) was established by mapping with Kyoto-Encylopedia-of-Genes-and-Genomes (KEGG) pathway in relation to mitochondria cellular respiration, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitophagy, energy metabolism and muscle growth in the breast muscle. Moreover, validation of microarray analysis of selected genes using RT-qPCR showed that the genes (ND1, ND2, ND3, ND5, CYTB, ATP6, PGC1-α, and Wnt11) were expressed in the same direction as that of GO analysis. In conclusion, supplementation of PHF resulted in transcriptional modulation in the mitochondrial functions, which was correlated to the improvements of corresponding phenotypic traits (FE and BWG) in broiler chickens.
Keywords: Differentially expressed gene, Feed efficiency, Genome microarray, Mitochondrial respiration

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The Evaluation of MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Chicken Necrotic Enteritis Based on Microbiomics and Metabolomics

Research Paper

The Evaluation of MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Chicken Necrotic Enteritis Based on Microbiomics and Metabolomics

Xie C, Sun L, Li Y, Chu Y, Liu X, Tong Q, and Gu C.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 208-223, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500021-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.21

ABSTRACT: Chicken necrotic enteritis is a prevalent intestinal disease caused by Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) in chickens. Previous research has confirmed the close relationship between the gut microbiota and its metabolites in connection with chicken necrotic enteritis. However, it remains unclear how the gut microbiota of the host influences host metabolism following the onset of necrotic enteritis (NE). The close relationship between gut microbiota and their metabolites in chicken necrotic enteritis (NE) has been established, yet the metabolic influence of microbiota post-NE onset remains unclear. In this study, 1-day-old White Leghorn chickens were divided into three groups (n=10/group), a negative control (CON) fed a basal diet, a fishmeal-supplemented group (F) receiving 50% fishmeal, and an NE group inoculated orally with C. perfringens alongside fishmeal supplementation. Growth performance, intestinal lesions, and morphological changes were recorded. Cecal contents were subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing for microbiota profiling, while serum metabolomics was analyzed via LC-MS.No noticeable damage was observed in the small intestines of the F group, whereas the NE group exhibited marked body weight reduction. Cell necrosis and jejunal mucosal shedding were identified, accompanied by ileal villi atrophy and significant reductions in tight junction proteins (Claudin-1 and ZO-1). Both F and NE groups showed decreased cecal abundances of Lactobacillus and Blautia, alongside increased Clostridium and Escherichia coli. Serum metabolomics revealed distinct glycerophospholipid and arginine-proline metabolism alterations in the F group versus CON. In contrast, NE-associated metabolic shifts were linked to pathways regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration, particularly MAPK signaling. Downregulation of MAPK/ERK pathway genes was detected in the jejunal mucosa of infected chickens compared to CON and F groups. Concurrently, jejunal PCNA expression was quantified and found to be significantly reduced in the NE cohort relative to controls. Drawing upon the experimental results, it was concluded that necrotic enteritis in chickens was linked to a disruption in the intestinal epithelial barrier. Additionally, alterations in the gut microbiota hindered the activation of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, which in turn reduced the proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells and impaired the repair processes crucial for intestinal barrier restoration.
Keywords: Chicken, Necrotic enteritis, Microbiomics, Metabolomics, MAPK/ERK, Signaling pathway

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The Evaluation of MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Chicken Necrotic Enteritis Based on Microbiomics and Metabolomics

Research Paper

Assessing the Efficiency of Different Coccidiostats against Eimeria spp. in Broiler Chickens Grown in the Floor Pen System

Rahman MA, Wasef A, Das NC, Islam MR, Islam MN, Mannan MA, Sarker NB, Aftabuzzaman M, and Mohanta UK.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 224-232, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500022-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.22

ABSTRACT: Coccidiosis is a critical parasitic disease that affects poultry through severe impairment in growth and yield. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combined coccidiostats in broiler chickens reared in floor pen systems. A total of 1200 Cobb500 broiler chickens were divided into five treatment groups, each group consisting of eight replications, which were based on different coccidiostats, including Treatment 1 (Control), Treatment 2 (Maduramicin-Nicarbazin), Treatment 3 (Narasin-Nicarbazin), Treatment 4 (Semduramicin-Nicarbazin), and Treatment 5 (Monensin-Nicarbazin). Performance parameters were recorded on days 7, 14, 21, 28, and 33. Treatment 3 exhibited the lowest feed consumption per chicken (2.797 kg), followed by Treatment 5 (2.825 kg) and Treatment 2 (2.835 kg). The control group consumed the highest amount of feed (2.880 kg), followed by Treatment 4 (2.888 kg). During week five, Treatment 5 demonstrated the highest body weight gain (1915 g), whereas Treatment 2 showed the lowest (1808 g). The lowest feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in Treatment 5 (1.500), followed by Treatment 3 (1.504), Treatment 4 (1.547), Treatment 2 (1.571), and the control group (1.576). However, the maximum intestinal lesion scores were noted in the control group, compared to the experimental groups observed on the culling day. Treatment 5 indicated the lowest lesion scores, followed by treatments 3, 4, and 2. Among the observed species, Eimeria (E.) tenella exhibited the highest lesion scores compared to E. maxima and E. acervulina in all the groups. Therefore, the effective use of these coccidiostats is crucial for preventing and managing coccidiosis outbreaks in poultry.
Keywords: Broiler chicken, Eimeria, Feed conversion ratio, Floor pen system, Monensin, Narasin

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The Evaluation of MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Chicken Necrotic Enteritis Based on Microbiomics and Metabolomics

Research Paper

Molecular Characterization of Infectious Laryngotracheitis Virus Circulating in Egypt during 2023

Yehia N, Omar S, Hassan W, Mossad Z, Said D, and Abdelhalim A.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 233-250, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500023-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.23

ABSTRACT: Since its discovery in Egypt in 1983, the infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) has continued to spread, leading to substantial losses for poultry farms. This study aimed to identify and molecularly characterize the ILTV currently in circulation in Egypt in 2023. Fifteen pooled trachea and lung samples were collected from affected vaccinated and non-vaccinated layer farms (Shiver, Lohhman, Brown layer, and Aviagel) aged from 10-30 weeks old spread throughout eight governorates in Egypt. A real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used to detect ILTV. Ten positive samples representing various governorates were chosen for partial sequencing of the ICP4 gene, and four positive samples were chosen for sequencing of the TK, gD, and gG genes. Using phylogenetic analysis, the ICP4 clusters into chicken embryo origin vaccine and vaccine-like strains (CEO) and tissue culture origin vaccine and vaccine-like strains (TCO) and wild type. The GAHV-1-Egy-WO5-2023, GAHV-1-Egy-WO7-2023, and GAHV-1-Egy-WO8-2023 strains cluster in the CEO group with the CEO vaccine and vaccine-like strains with 98.9%–100% amino acid identity (A.A.); However, the remaining strains (GAHV-1-Egy-WO1-2023, GAHV-1-Egy-WO2-2023, GAHV-1-Egy-WO3-2023, GAHV-1-Egy-WO4-2023, GAHV-1-Egy-WO6-2023, GAHV-1-Egy-WO9-2023, and GAHV-1-Egy-WO10-2023) were clustered in the TCO group with TCO vaccine strains and vaccine-like strains with 100 % A.A. By analysis of gD, gG, and Tk genes, there is no difference between the TCO and CEO groups. Compared with several reference CEO and TCO vaccine strains and vaccine-like strains, some new specific mutations (Q161H and Q182H) were recorded in the ICP4 in GAHV-1- Egy-WO8-2023. In addition, A34G, and P276L were recorded in the gD gene in the GAHV-1-Egy-WO1-2023 and GAHV-1-WO4-2023. Also, the R115I, G126A, and S163I were recorded in the TK gene in GAHV-1-Egy-WO8-2023 and A99E in GAHV-1-Egy-WO5-2023, which can affect the virulence and pathogenicity of the virus, which may be due to the reactivation of the vaccine strain by the bird-to-bird transmission or viral recombination. In conclusion, the ILTV outbreaks in poultry farms across several regions of Egypt during 2023 were induced by vaccine strains derived from TCO and CEO. Thus employing innovative vector vaccines and reassessing the current vaccination regimens is necessary.
Keywords: Infectious laryngotracheitis, Diagnosis, isolation, Genetic characterization

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The Evaluation of MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Chicken Necrotic Enteritis Based on Microbiomics and Metabolomics

Research Paper

Sero-marker and Detection of Avian Leukosis and Marek’s Disease Viruses in Commercial Chicken Flocks in Egypt During 2019 to 2022

Safwat M, Amer F, Ali M, Morsy MM, Samy MM, Mohamed M, Mohamed W, and Selim AA.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(2): 251-262, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500024-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.24

ABSTRACT: In the poultry industry, oncogenic disease viruses result in significant financial losses. This study aimed to update incidence data in Egyptian chicken flocks from 2019 to 2022. The prevalence of Marek’s disease virus (MDV) and Avian leukosis virus (ALV) was monitored during the passive surveillance program in commercial poultry flocks, including (43) breeders, (45) layers, and (7) broiler flocks during 2019-2022 in Egypt. This passive surveillance was adopted depending on molecular detection of MDV and ALV viruses using PCR tests and serological detection of ALV using ELISA test kits. The histological and post-mortem results for clinically diseased birds have been recorded in different organs, including the Liver, spleen, kidney, ovary, intestine, and brain. Ninety-five flocks were reported and tested using PCR for monitoring ALV viruses (subtypes A, B, C, D, and J) and vvMDV. Samples used for PCR were prepared from liver and spleen tissues (5 chickens/pool). The tested flocks were negative for ALV subtypes A, B, C, and D, while only two cases were positive for ALV-J (2/95, 2.1%), including one breeder flock in 2021 and one-layer flock in 2022, both from Sharqia governorate. Although the overall detection rate of vvMDV was 18.9% (18/95), breeder flocks showed the highest detection rate (25.6%), compared to layer flocks (15.6%). Furthermore, the vvMDV virus detection rate varied from one year to another, including 4/13 (30.8%), 7/43 (16.3%), 4/24 (16.7%), and 3/15 (20 %) in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. The vvMDV-positive cases were reported in eight governorates, including Sharqia, Menofia, Daqahlia, Gharbia, Qualiobia, Al Beheira, Giza, and Damietta. Moreover, the study indicated that vvMDV was detected in chickens aged 5 to 61 weeks. The ELISA test was used to detect ALV antibodies serologically. The seroprevalence of ALV was 4.7% in the study area. In conclusion, among the tested samples, only two cases of ALV-J were reported in Egyptian commercial chicken flocks during 2019-2022. During the same period, vvMDV showed an 18.9% prevalence rate. Further studies are recommended to evaluate the MDV vaccination program, including vaccine quality and efficacy.
Keywords: Avian leukosis virus, Detection rate, Egypt, Marek’s disease virus, Prevalence

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The Evaluation of MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Chicken Necrotic Enteritis Based on Microbiomics and Metabolomics

Research Paper

Pathogenicity of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1) in Different Duck Breeds

El Tantawy RI, Hussein HA, El Deeb AH, Ahmed B, and Arafa A.

J. World Poult. Res. 15(1): 263-274, 2025; pii: S2322455X2500025-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.36380/jwpr.2025.25

ABSTRACT: Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) pose a global threat, with wild waterfowl serving as key reservoirs for transmission to poultry. The present study investigated the pathogenicity, viral shedding patterns, tissue distribution, and pathological effects of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) in two duck breeds, including Muscovy and Sudani ducks. An Egyptian H5N1 strain (A/ibis/Egypt/RLQP-229S/2022), originally isolated from a wild ibis, was used. Forty ducks (20 Muscovy and 20 Sudani) were divided into infected and control groups (10 per group per breed). At four weeks of age (Average weight of 1.2 ± 0.1 kg), each infected duck received a single intranasal dose of 10⁶ EID₅₀. Cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs were collected at 3, 5, 7, and 10 days post-infection (DPI) to monitor viral shedding, while clinical signs were recorded daily. Mortality was higher in Muscovy ducks, which exhibited higher mortality (70%) than Sudani ducks (50%), with both breeds showing neurological signs and lethargy. Viral load analysis of cloacal swabs via RT-PCR (Targeting the AIV M gene), exceeded oropharyngeal shedding, peaking by five DPI and persisting longer in Muscovy ducks (Seven DPI compared to five DPI in Sudani ducks), suggesting that fecal-oral transmission is the primary route of spread and that viral replication is more active in the intestinal tract. Tissue distribution analysis revealed broader viral dissemination in Muscovy ducks, particularly in the brain, lung, kidney, and spleen. These findings demonstrated differential susceptibility between breeds, with Muscovy ducks posing a higher transmission risk due to prolonged viral shedding and tissue tropism. The virus used in the present study carried pathogenicity markers across several proteins, including hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA), polymerase basic 1 (PB1), polymerase basic 2 (PB2), nucleoprotein (NP), non-structural protein 1 (NS1), and polymerase acidic (PA) protein. Overall, while both duck breeds are vulnerable to the circulating H5N1 HPAI strain, their susceptibility and clinical outcomes differ. These findings demonstrated that both Muscovy and Sudani ducks are susceptible to H5N1 HPAIV infection, Muscovy ducks showing higher mortality and more extensive viral shedding and histopathological alterations. However, both duck breeds are variable in their susceptibility to H5N1 infection.
Keywords: Avian influenza viruses, Duck breeds, H5N1, Histopathological changes, Pathogenicity, Virus shedding