Dietary supplementation of protexin and artichoke extract for modulating growth performance and oxidative stress in broilers

Abstract

In this study, the effects of Protexin and artichoke extract (AE) were evaluated on the performance and oxidative stress of chickens. Totally, 300 chicks were divided into 4 groups that were fed a basal diet, a diet containing Protexin, AE, and Protexin plus AE all over the growing period. The growth indices were measured weekly and analyzed at 21 and 42 days of age. At 42 days of age, blood samples were collected from all chickens. The concentrations of liver enzymes, lipid profiles, and antioxidant status were measured in blood samples. Results showed that the weight gain (WG) was significantly higher and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly lower in chickens that received Protexin, or Protexin plus AE, in comparison with chickens that received AE and control chickens (P