Curcumin Attenuates Escherichia coli-Induced Enteritis and Macrophage Inflammation in Broilers
TL;DR
Cell experiments showed that curcumin reduced inflammation by suppressing a cellular signaling pathway known as p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, which indicates that curcumin may be a useful natural feed additive for reducing intestinal inflammation and improving gut health in broiler production.
Abstract
Simple Summary Escherichia coli infection can damage the intestine of broiler chickens, trigger excessive inflammation, and reduce growth performance. This study examined whether dietary curcumin could protect broilers against this intestinal injury. Curcumin supplementation improved body weight, feed intake, and weight gain, reduced intestinal inflammatory signals, and helped maintain the structure and protective function of the intestinal lining. It also restored mucus-producing goblet cells and improved the balance and inflammatory activity of intestinal macrophages, which are immune cells involved in controlling infection and tissue damage. Cell experiments further showed that curcumin reduced inflammation by suppressing a cellular signaling pathway known as p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. These findings indicate that curcumin may be a useful natural feed additive for reducing intestinal inflammation and improving gut health in broiler production, thereby supporting animal health and sustainable poultry farming.