Effect of flavonoids from eupatorium odoratum l. On immunoglobulins and cecal microflora in broilers

Abstract

The effects of total flavonoids from Eupatorium odoratum L. (TFEO) on serum (IgM, IgG) and duodenal mucosa (Secretory IgA-SIgA) immunoglobulins and cecal microflora composition in broiler chicken were investigated. Test groups received diets supplemented with 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg TFEO for 21 and 42d. At 21d, IgM levels were higher in the 200 and 400 mg/kg groups compared to control group. IgG and SIgA levels were increased in all test groups (P<0.05). At 42d, IgG content in all test groups were higher (P<0.05), IgM in all test groups was higher (P>0.05). SIgA in all test groups increased at 200 and 400 mg/kg (P<0.01) >100 mg/kg (P<0.05) compared to the controls. Significant increases (P<0.05) in Firmicutes phylum and Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus and Lachnospira genera gut microbes and significant decreases in pathogenic Escherichia and Clostridium of the test groups were observed at 21 and/or 42d. TFEO flavonoids are suggested for use as a feed additive for broilers to improve cecal microflora and humoral immunity.