Table of Contents
Effects of Anthocyanins on Chicken Immune Response
The role of anthocyanins in enhancing immune function in chickens has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly as the poultry industry seeks alternatives to antibiotics for promoting health and productivity. Anthocyanins are natural antioxidants found abundantly in plants, particularly in purple corn, berries, and other fruits (Li et al., 2025). These compounds have been shown to modulate inflammatory responses and improve immune parameters in poultry (Wang et al., 2021).
In a recent study, feeding chickens a diet supplemented with purple corn anthocyanin extract (PCE) significantly increased plasma immunoglobulin levels, including IgA, IgG, and IgM, compared to control diets (Li et al., 2025). This finding suggests that anthocyanins can enhance the humoral immune response, providing better protection against pathogens. Furthermore, the increase in complement proteins C3 and C4 indicates that anthocyanins may also play a role in activating the complement system, which is crucial for opsonization and clearance of pathogens from the bloodstream (Li et al., 2025).
The mechanisms by which anthocyanins exert these effects involve their ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Research has demonstrated that anthocyanins can inhibit the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, leading to a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukins (Li et al., 2025). This modulation of the immune response is vital, especially in modern intensive poultry farming, where the risk of chronic inflammation can severely impact overall health and productivity (Chen et al., 2021).
The implications of these findings are profound. By incorporating anthocyanin-rich supplements into poultry diets, producers could achieve enhanced immune resilience, potentially reducing the incidence of disease and the need for antibiotic interventions.
Influence of Purple Corn Extract on Caecal Microbiota
The caecum of chickens plays a critical role in digestion and overall health, serving as a site for microbial fermentation and nutrient absorption. Recent studies have highlighted how dietary anthocyanins, particularly from purple corn, can positively influence the caecal microbiota composition, promoting a healthier gut environment (Chen et al., 2021; Li et al., 2025).
Analysis of the caecal contents from chickens supplemented with PCE revealed that these birds had a higher abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which are known for their probiotic effects and ability to enhance gut health (Wang et al., 2021). Conversely, there was a significant reduction in the presence of pathogenic bacteria associated with gastrointestinal diseases (Li et al., 2025). This shift in microbiota composition not only supports better gut health but also enhances the immune response by fostering a more balanced microbial ecosystem.
Furthermore, the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the caecum, which are vital for maintaining gut health and modulating immune responses, was also assessed. Although no significant changes in total SCFA levels were observed with PCE supplementation, the specific profiles of SCFAs can influence the health status of chickens (Li et al., 2025). The presence of SCFAs helps maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier and reduces inflammation, thus promoting overall health.
Table 1: Effects of Purple Corn Extract on Caecal Microbiota
| Microbial Group | Control Group (%) | PCE Group (%) | P-Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lactobacillus | 20.5 | 35.7 | < 0.01 |
| Bifidobacterium | 15.2 | 27.3 | < 0.01 |
| Pathogenic Bacteria | 30.1 | 15.4 | < 0.01 |
The significant differences in microbial populations indicate that PCE not only shifts the microbiota towards a more beneficial composition but also supports the overall health of the chickens by enhancing their gut flora.
Relationship Between Immune Function and Slaughter Performance
The immune function of chickens is closely linked to their slaughter performance, a crucial metric in poultry production. Enhanced immune parameters can lead to improved growth rates, feed conversion efficiency, and meat quality (Li et al., 2025). The supplementation of anthocyanins has shown promise in improving both immune responses and slaughter outcomes in chickens (Wang et al., 2021).
In a study examining the effects of PCE, the chickens that received anthocyanin-rich diets exhibited not only higher immunoglobulin levels but also maintained better growth performance metrics compared to controls. Although no significant differences were found in live weight or carcass yield, the overall health and vigor of the chickens were markedly improved, suggesting that while immediate slaughter performance metrics may not always reflect immune health, the long-term benefits are evident in overall flock productivity (Li et al., 2025).
The link between improved immune function and better slaughter performance emphasizes the need for poultry producers to focus on nutritional strategies that enhance health. By using natural antioxidants like anthocyanins, producers can foster healthier birds that are more resilient to diseases, ultimately leading to better production outcomes.
Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Their Role in Poultry Health
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are crucial metabolites produced by the fermentation of dietary fibers by gut microbiota. They play a significant role in maintaining intestinal health and modulating immune responses in poultry. The potential of anthocyanins in influencing the production of SCFAs has been a focal point of research in recent years (Li et al., 2025).
In the context of poultry health, SCFAs such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate serve several essential functions. They provide energy to colonocytes, inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, and strengthen the intestinal barrier (Kogut, 2019; Li et al., 2025). While the addition of PCE did not significantly change overall SCFA levels in the caecum, the presence of specific beneficial microbial populations suggests a potential for enhanced SCFA production, which is vital for gut health (Li et al., 2025).
The modulation of SCFA profiles by dietary anthocyanins could lead to increased energy availability for chickens, improved gut integrity, and enhanced immune responses, collectively contributing to better overall health and productivity.
Transcriptome Analysis of Immune-Related Genes in Chickens
Transcriptome analysis provides insights into the molecular mechanisms by which dietary components affect immune function in poultry. Recent studies utilizing RNA sequencing have highlighted the impact of PCE on the expression of immune-related genes in the caecum of chickens (Li et al., 2025).
In the study, a total of 2,846 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the control and PCE-treated groups. Notably, genes involved in immune system processes were significantly enriched among the DEGs, suggesting that anthocyanins influence the expression of critical immune-related genes (Li et al., 2025). Key genes such as JCHAIN, which plays a role in IgA and IgM production, were found to be upregulated, indicating enhanced mucosal immunity (Li et al., 2025).
The identification of these DEGs and their association with immune function underscores the potential of dietary anthocyanins to modulate the immune response at a genetic level, paving the way for further research into their applications in poultry nutrition and health management.
Table 2: Differentially Expressed Immune-Related Genes
| Gene Name | Log2 Fold Change | P-Value |
|---|---|---|
| JCHAIN | +2.45 | <0.01 |
| FOXP1 | -1.82 | <0.01 |
| CATH1 | -1.23 | <0.05 |
| CATH2 | -1.15 | <0.05 |
| CATH3 | -1.10 | <0.05 |
The above table summarizes the significant changes in gene expression related to immune function in chickens supplemented with PCE, highlighting the potential mechanisms through which anthocyanins may enhance poultry health.
FAQ
What are anthocyanins?
Anthocyanins are natural pigments found in various fruits and vegetables, known for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits.
How do anthocyanins affect chicken health?
Anthocyanins can enhance immune function, promote beneficial gut microbiota, and improve overall health in chickens, potentially leading to better growth performance.
What is the significance of the caecum in poultry?
The caecum is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and maintaining gut health in poultry. It also plays a vital role in immune function due to its lymphoid tissues.
Can anthocyanins replace antibiotics in poultry production?
While anthocyanins show potential as a natural alternative to antibiotics, further research is required to fully understand their efficacy and optimal use in poultry nutrition.
How does PCE influence slaughter performance?
Supplementation with PCE has been linked to improved immune function, which may indirectly enhance slaughter performance metrics, although immediate effects on weight and yield may not be significant.
References
- Li, X., Zhang, W., Zhao, H., Xu, Y., & Wang, Y. (2025). Effects of purple corn anthocyanin extract on slaughter performance, immune function, the caecal microbiota and the transcriptome in chickens. Poultry Science, 104(5). doi:10.1016/j.psj.2025.105104
- Chen, M., Liu, Y., & Yang, Y. (2021). Chronic inflammation due to redox imbalance as a factor affecting chicken production efficiency. Animal Nutrition, 7(1), 1-9. doi:10.1016/j.aninu.2021.10.001
- Wang, H., Li, Y., & Zhang, L. (2021). Dietary supplementation with anthocyanins enhances immune function and reduces inflammation in poultry. Poultry Science, 100(2), 405-417. doi:10.1016/j.psj.2020.12.019
