Activation of chicken macrophages by isomalto/malto-polysaccharide (IMMP) is facilitated by toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)
- Author: mycolabadmin
- 8/14/2025
- View Source
Summary
Researchers studied how a natural carbohydrate called IMMP can boost chicken immune cells called macrophages. They found that IMMP activates these immune cells through a receptor called TLR4, making them more effective at fighting infections. This suggests IMMP could be added to poultry feed as a natural alternative to antibiotics to improve gut health and disease resistance in chickens.
Background
Isomalto/malto-polysaccharide (IMMP) is a prebiotic compound that escapes enzymatic digestion and reaches the colon where it can interact with immune cells. Previous studies showed IMMP binds to TLR4 on human macrophages, but its effects on chicken immune cells remain unclear.
Objective
This study investigated whether IMMP can activate chicken macrophages through TLR4 signaling and determine its immunomodulatory potential as a feed additive for poultry.
Results
IMMP stimulation induced morphological changes in HD11 cells and increased nitric oxide production in both HD11 cells and chicken MDMs in a dose-dependent manner. The extracellular TLR4 blocker LPS-RS significantly reduced IMMP-induced NO production, while the intracellular inhibitor TAK-242 had no effect. IMMP also enhanced bead uptake, indicating increased phagocytic activity.
Conclusion
IMMP activates chicken macrophages through TLR4-mediated signaling, demonstrating immunomodulatory potential. These findings suggest IMMP may serve as an alternative feed additive to strengthen immune responsiveness and control intestinal infections in poultry.
- Published in:Poultry Science,
- Study Type:In Vitro Experimental Study,
- Source: PMID: 40848484, DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2025.105690