Aflatoxin b1 induced toxicity in broiler chicks : protective effect of melatonin

الملخص EN

This study briefly summarizes the role of Melatonin (MLT) in real amelioration of the hematological ; Clinicobiochemical and histopath-ologic adverse effects caused by Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in broiler chicks.

One hundred and twenty eight, one-day old, commercial broiler chicks were randomly divided into 8 equal groups.

AFB1 treatment significantly decreased body weight gain in addition to other clinical signs represe-nted by, anorexia, depression, ruffled feathers and diarrhea.

RBCs and lymphocyte counts and Hb% and PCV % levels were significantly reduced by AFB1 treatment, while significant increases were seen in WBCs and heterophil counts.

Serum total protein and albumin contents were significantly decreased while creatinine and uric acid levels and amino-transferases (ALT ; AST) activities were significantly increased by AFB1 treatment.

Microscopically, the hepatic parenchyma in the groups undergoes AFB1 treatment showed a hepato-cellular cytoplasmic vacuolar change with congestion and swelling of the blood vessels.

The electron microscopic findings showed proliferation of duct epithelial cells which appeared very rich with free ribosomes and poor in cell organelles.

The addition of MLT to an AFB1-containing diet improves dramatically its adverse effects on histological, hemato-logical and Clinicobiochemical parameters.

Thus, melatonin as therapy should be considered in cases of aflatoxicosis.