Imidacloprid (IM) is a neonicotinoid insecticide being used extensively for crop
protection and pet flea control programs. Nevertheless, IM is a strong environmental
toxicant for both animals and humans. As a result, the present study aimed to assess the
ameliorative efficacy of Spirulina platensis (SP) against IM-induced oxidative stress and
immune damage in broiler chickens. Chicks (n=102) were divided randomly into six
equal groups (n= 17 each). Group I administered filtered water orally for 4 weeks. Group
II administered IM 10 mg/kg b. wt. orally daily for 4 weeks. Group III given SP 5 g/kg of
diet for 4 weeks. Group IV received IM plus SP for 4 weeks. Group V received IM for 2
weeks, followed by SP for another 2 weeks. Group VI received SP for 2 weeks, followed
by IM for another 2 weeks. Results revealed that IM significantly decreased body weight
while increased feed conversion rate, total leukocytic count and lymphocyte percent.
There was a decrease in serum Haemagglutination inhibition antibody titer against
Newcastle disease vaccine. Antioxidant enzymes such as reduced glutathione and
catalase significantly decreased; while malondialdehyde increased in bursa of Fabricius
tissue accompanied with histopathological changes. Administration of SP in
combination, before and after treatment with IM significantly ameliorated the IMinduced
oxidative stress and immune damage due to its antioxidant properties. |
