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Immunomodulating effects of vitamin E in broilers

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 February 2012

R.U. KHAN*
Affiliation:
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
Z.U. RAHMAN
Affiliation:
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
Z. NIKOUSEFAT
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Razi University, Iran
M. JAVDANI
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Razi University, Iran
V. TUFARELLI
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 700100 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
C. DARIO
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 700100 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
M. SELVAGGI
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 700100 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
V. LAUDADIO
Affiliation:
Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 700100 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
*
Corresponding author: rifatullahkhhan@gmail.com
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Abstract

Modern commercial broilers appear to have compromised immunocompetence, higher mortality and lower resistance to stressors. To overcome these, dietary manipulation seems to be the easiest approach, and this has been supported by research investigations conducted over the last few decades. The goal of enhancing the immune system of broilers is laudable for both economic and welfare reasons. Vitamin E (VE) is now well accepted as nature's most effective lipid-soluble, chain-breaking antioxidant. This antioxidant vitamin has been shown to improve both cell-mediated and humoral immunity in broiler chicks. However, the effect of this vitamin depends upon dose, age and genetics of the broiler chicks. Several mechanisms have been postulated for the beneficial effects of this vitamin. In this review, several aspects of the immunomodulatory effects of VE are reviewed.

Type
Review Article
Copyright
Copyright © World's Poultry Science Association 2012

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