Ontogeny of energy and carbohydrate utilisation of the precocial avian embryo and hatchling

Authors: Foye, O.T.; Ferket, P.R.; Uni, Z.

Source: Avian and Poultry Biology Reviews, Volume 18, Number 3, December 2007 , pp. 93-101(9)

Publisher: Science Reviews 2000 Ltd

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Abstract:

Unlike the mammalian fetus, the developing chick embryo must rely upon the nutrients provided by the egg independently of maternal influence. Nutrient transfer from the mother to the embryo is completed before the egg is laid, with the egg containing all the nutrients needed for embryonic growth and development. The in ovo nutriture of the chick embryo consists mainly of yolk fat with traces of carbohydrates. However, glucose is the primary source of energy needed to fuel embryonic development and growth. Therefore, the avian embryo relies upon hepatic gluconeogenesis as the primary mechanism for glucose production. The gluconeogenic pathways are highly active during embryonic development and decline post-hatch. Post-hatch, glycolysis is critical for the survival of young hatchlings, while poults are adapting to an external carbohydrate-rich diet. It is often during this critical post-hatch period that glycogen reserves are rapidly depleted and may adversely affect growth and increase early mortality. However, with immediate access to feed, hatchlings may replenish their glycogen reserves, providing the energy needed for optimal growth performance post-hatch.

Keywords: turkey; ontogeny of energy; carbohydrate utilisation; precocial avian embryo and hatchling

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3184/147020607X296033

Affiliations: 1: United States Department of Agriculture-ARS, ANRI, ABBL, Beltsville MD 20705, USA

Publication date: 2007-12-10

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