Capsanthin supplementation modulates the immune response in broiler chickens under Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide challenge.

Due to the legislation of antibiotic usage, natural substances are required for application in the poultry industry. Because of their potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, carotenoids are great sources. Capsanthin, a major carotenoid giving the red color of pepper, is a promising feed additive, as it can reduce chronic inflammation. This study was conducted to determine the effects of capsanthin supplementation at 80 mg kg${}^{-1}$ in feed on the immune response of broiler chickens under Escherichia coli O55:B5 lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Ross 308 male broilers were divided into treatments: control (basal diet) and feed-supplemented groups. At 42 d of age, chickens were weighed and then challenged with 1 mg LPS per kilogram of body weight intraperitoneally. Four hours after injection, birds were euthanized, and then spleen and blood samples were collected. Capsanthin supplement at 80 mg kg${}^{-1}$ did not change the growth parameters and the relative spleen weight. LPS immunization resulted in higher splenic interleukin-1$\beta$ (IL-1$\beta$), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interferon-$\gamma$ (IFN-$\gamma$) mRNA expressions. Capsanthin addition reached lower gene expression levels of IL-6 and IFN-$\gamma$ compared to the LPS-injected birds. At plasma level, dietary capsanthin resulted in lower IL-1$\beta$ and IL-6 levels. These results may indicate the potential anti-inflammatory effect of capsanthin supplementation in broiler chickens.