Nucleotides in Poultry : An overview
As protein is made up of group of amino acids similarly DNA and RNA ,the genetic material of all living cells, are made up of nucleotides. There are many different individual amino acids which make protein similarly there are many different nucleotides which make DNA and RNA. Nucleotides chemically are made up of one part non-protein nitrogen, one part sugar and one part phosphorus. Nucleotides are divided into two categories: purines and pyrimidines.
Our bodies are continuously creating millions of new cells and are building and repairing worn out tissue. Body is making all those genetic code for new hormones, neurotransmitters, enzymes and millions of other essential body chemicals. Without adequate nucleotide levels, all of these processes can be disturbed.
Nucleotides can be synthesized endogenously; however, they may become essential nutrients during conditions of rapid growth, malnutrition or infections.
Non-protein nitrogen fraction of milk, yeast and other ingredients with high cellular density are major sources of Nucleotides. Yeast and yeast byproducts such as live yeasts and yeast extracts are typically the best nucleotide sources. While considering Nucleotide supplementation in Poultry one should obtain the certificate of analysis for total levels of all nucleotides present in the supplement.
Nucleotides supplementation in animal trials have shown improvement in villi length and crypt depth in the intestine. Addition of nucleotides may enhance immune function and gastrointestinal development and promote the development of beneficial intestinal flora. Because of improvement in gut health nucleotides improve growth and production in Poultry. Nucleotides may reduce antibiotic usage in Poultry.
Although poultry can synthesize nucleotides but in young birds production of nucleotides may not be enough to meet demand. Young birds are susceptible to stress. Nucleotides may help them to combat stress. Nucleotides are still in early stage in poultry production. Mass scale usage of Nucleotides is yet to be done to validate the benefits of small scale trials.
