Effects of dietary yeast beta-1,3-1,6-glucan on growth performance, intestinal morphology and chosen immunity parameters changes in Haidong chicks

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effects of 1,3-1,6 beta-glucan added to the diet of Haidong chicks reared under hypoxic conditions, to ascertain the growth performances, immunity and intestinal morphology changes. METHODS: A total of 750 chicks were divided into five groups and fed diets containing 0.5 g/kg, 1.0 g/kg, and 2.0 g/kg 1,3-1,6 beta-glucan from yeast (G1, G2, G3, respectively), 0.2 g/kg Taylor rhizomorph and a control feed. RESULTS: The body weight and body weight gain were higher in chicks fed 1,3-1,6 beta-glucan and Taylor rhizomorph than in control group. Feed conversion ratio significantly differed for G2 and G3 groups in comparison to control group. The relative weight of bursa was higher in G1, G2, and G3 groups. The white blood cells and lymphocytes were significantly increased in groups fed 1,3-1,6 beta-glucan. The immunoglobulin G of serum peak appeared in the G3 group. The villous height of the duodenum was higher in 1,3-1,6 beta-glucan feed groups. In the jejunum, the villous height was higher in G2 and G3 groups and crypt depth for all the groups fed β-glucan. At ileum level the villous height and crypt depth was higher for groups G1, G2, and G3. CONCLUSION: The growth performance of Haidong chicks is improved when 10 and 20 g/kg 1,3-1,6 beta-glucan is included in the diet; hence, it is suggested that 1,3-1,6 beta-glucan be included in poultry diet to reduce and replace the use of antibiotics.