The ameliorative effects of L-carnitine and synbiotics on induced hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress in broilers

Background: Hyperlipidemia is a serious problem in broilers as it is associated with an increase in the oxidative biomarkers level. Fasting and refeeding cycles is an important cause of hyperlipidemia. Fasting and refeeding is a special feeding regimen in tropical countries. It is used as a method for decreasing the heat stress.Consequently, it leads to hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress. Methods: 120 (one day old) broiler chicks were kept at optimal conditions. The chicks were received water & feed ad libitum. At 20th day old, the chicks were divided into 4 groups, 3 replicates of 10 birds each. The first group was reared at optimal conditions till the end of experiment. The second group was subjected to repeated fasting and refeeding cycles and high temperature (35oC). The third and fourth groups were received L-carnitine and synbiotics in drinking water respectively before and during the challenge by repeated fasting and refeeding cycles and high ambient temperature. Lipid profile (total lipids, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, LDL-C and HDL-C) in serum and oxidative-antioxidant biomarkers (GSH, glutathione reductase, SOD, MDA, NO and TAC) in liver were measured in all groups Results: birds in the second group showed hyperlipidemia with increased ROS production. L-carnitine and synbiotics received groups showed a significant amelioration in lipid profile and antioxidant parameters as compared to the second group. Conclusion: The repeated fasting and refeeding cycles in addition to heat stress induce hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress which can be ameliorated by using of L-carnitine or synbiotics.