Comparative effects of Myrmecodia sp. extract and infusion on organ function biomarkers, lipid metabolism, and meat lipid profile in avian pathogenic Escherichia coli-infected broiler chickens: Implications for sustainable poultry production within a One Health framework.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is a major cause of colibacillosis in broiler chickens, leading to systemic inflammation, organ dysfunction, disrupted lipid metabolism, and compromised meat quality. Growing concerns about antimicrobial resistance necessitate the development of sustainable alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters. Myrmecodia sp., a medicinal plant rich in bioactive flavonoids, tannins, and phenolics, has demonstrated antibacterial and antioxidant properties. However, limited information is available on the comparative effects of different preparation forms on organ function and lipid metabolism under APEC challenge conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Myrmecodia sp. extract and infusion on liver and kidney biomarkers, serum lipid profile, and meat lipid composition in APEC-infected broiler chickens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 56 male Lohmann MB 202 broiler chickens were randomly assigned to seven groups: negative control, positive APEC-infected control, antibiotic control (zinc bacitracin), two extract treatments (15% and 30%), and two infusion treatments (1% and 2%). Treatments were administered from day 8 to day 35, and APEC infection was induced orally on day 21. Measured parameters included serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and meat LDL and HDL. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan's multiple range test (p < 0.05).

RESULTS: APEC infection significantly increased SGPT, SGOT, BUN, creatinine, and LDL levels while decreasing HDL levels (p < 0.05). Supplementation with Myrmecodia sp. extract and infusion significantly improved all evaluated parameters compared with the positive control (p < 0.05). Among treatments, the 1% infusion consistently produced the most favorable effects, including reduced liver enzyme activity, improved renal function, decreased LDL levels, and increased HDL levels in both serum and meat.

CONCLUSION: Myrmecodia sp., particularly in infusion form, demonstrated protective effects on organ function and lipid metabolism in broilers infected with APEC. These findings support its potential as a phytogenic alternative to antibiotics in sustainable poultry production systems within a One Health framework.