Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the role of probiotics in enhancing the immune response in poultry. The poultry industry faces significant challenges in maintaining the health and productivity of flocks, with infectious diseases posing a major threat. Probiotics, defined as live microorganisms that confer a health benefit to the host when administered in adequate amounts, have gained attention as potential alternatives to antibiotics in promoting poultry health. This study aims to explore the mechanisms through which probiotics modulate the immune response in poultry, with a focus on enhancing disease resistance and overall well-being. The introduction provides background information on the poultry industry and the challenges associated with disease management. The problem statement highlights the need for sustainable and effective strategies to enhance immune function in poultry without relying solely on antibiotics. The objectives of the study include investigating the effects of probiotics on immune parameters, elucidating the mechanisms of action, and evaluating the overall impact on poultry health. The literature review encompasses ten key areas, including the importance of gut health in poultry, the role of probiotics in modulating the immune system, and the potential benefits of probiotic supplementation in poultry production. Research methodology details the experimental design, sample collection, and analytical techniques used to assess immune parameters and microbial populations in poultry treated with probiotics. The findings section presents a detailed analysis of the data obtained, including changes in immune markers, gut microbiota composition, and disease incidence in probiotic-treated poultry compared to control groups. The discussion interprets the results in the context of existing literature, discussing the implications for poultry health and production practices. The conclusion summarizes the main findings of the study, highlighting the potential of probiotics as a sustainable strategy for enhancing immune response in poultry. The significance of the study lies in its contribution to the development of alternative approaches to disease management in poultry production, reducing reliance on antibiotics and promoting sustainable practices. Future research directions include exploring different probiotic strains, optimizing dosages, and investigating long-term effects on poultry health. Overall, this thesis provides valuable insights into the role of probiotics in enhancing immune response in poultry, offering a promising avenue for improving health and productivity in the poultry industry while addressing concerns related to antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance.

Thesis Overview

The research project entitled "Investigating the role of probiotics in enhancing immune response in poultry" aims to explore the potential benefits of probiotics in boosting the immune response of poultry. With the increasing demand for poultry products worldwide, there is a growing need to improve poultry health and productivity in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. Probiotics, defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered in adequate amounts, have shown promise in various animal species, including poultry. The study will delve into the background of probiotics and their mechanisms of action in promoting immune function. By reviewing existing literature on probiotics in poultry production, the research aims to identify gaps in knowledge and areas for further investigation. The project will also address the problem statement related to the challenges faced in poultry farming, such as disease outbreaks and the excessive use of antibiotics, which can lead to antimicrobial resistance and environmental pollution. The objectives of the study include evaluating the effectiveness of probiotics in enhancing immune response, investigating the optimal dosage and administration of probiotics in poultry, and assessing the impact of probiotics on overall health and performance parameters. The research will be conducted with a focus on poultry species, considering factors such as age, breed, and environmental conditions that may influence the outcomes. While the study has its limitations, such as the need for controlled experimental conditions and potential variability in response among individual birds, the scope of the research will encompass both in vitro and in vivo experiments to provide a comprehensive analysis of probiotic effects on poultry immune function. The significance of the study lies in its potential to contribute to the development of sustainable and effective strategies for poultry health management, reducing the reliance on antibiotics and promoting animal welfare. The structure of the thesis will be organized into chapters covering introductory aspects, literature review on probiotics in poultry, research methodology detailing experimental design and data analysis, discussion of findings, and conclusion with a summary of key insights and implications for future research. By defining key terms related to probiotics, immune response, and poultry health, the research overview sets the stage for an in-depth investigation into the role of probiotics in enhancing immune function in poultry, aiming to provide valuable insights for the poultry industry and scientific community.