Hendrix genetics researchers have found a gene that triggers
chicken’s immune response.
The
news from Wageningen University in the Netherlands says the discovery is a receptor
that is an important sensor for activating the chicken’s immune system,
specifically natural antibodies that fight pathogens and viruses.
The
team says this discovery may lead to improved vaccines, health-promoting
nutrition and breeding of birds and animals with a higher general disease
resistance.
They
said the benefits would include less antibiotic use, lower costs for farmers,
and improved animal welfare.
Hendrix
develops Hypor hogs, Hybrid turkeys, trout and salmon.
