Applications of Enteroendocrine Cells (EECs) Hormone: Applicability on Feed Intake and Nutrient Absorption in Chickens

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Normal feed intake and efficient nutrient absorption are prerequisites for achieving rapid growth, high body weight and dimensions, high carcass and meat yield, and feed efficiency in chickens. Gut hormones released from enteroendocrine cells (EECs) have been recognized as regulators for appetite as well as nutrient absorption in other species. However, the underlying regulation mechanisms of appetite control and nutrient absorption by gut hormones are not fully understood in chickens. This review suggests that gut hormones released from EECs play important roles in appetite and nutrient absorption, and these hormones are considered to be able to influence the reduction of feed intake by infection (e.g., Eimeria spp. and Salmonella spp.) and environmental stresses (e.g., heat stress and high stock density). ABSTRACT: This review focuses on the role of hormones derived from enteroendocrine cells (EECs) on appetite and nutrient absorption in chickens. In response to nutrient intake, EECs release hormones that act on many organs and body systems, including the brain, gallbladder, and pancreas. Gut hormones released from EECs play a critical role in the regulation of feed intake and the absorption of nutrients such as glucose, protein, and fat following feed ingestion. We could hypothesize that EECs are essential for the regulation of appetite and nutrient absorption because the malfunction of EECs causes severe diarrhea and digestion problems. The importance of EEC hormones has been recognized, and many studies have been carried out to elucidate their mechanisms for many years in other species. However, there is a lack of research on the regulation of appetite and nutrient absorption by EEC hormones in chickens. This review suggests the potential significance of EEC hormones on growth and health in chickens under stress conditions induced by diseases and high temperature, etc., by providing in-depth knowledge of EEC hormones and mechanisms on how these hormones regulate appetite and nutrient absorption in other species.