Serum metabolomics profiling of broiler ascites syndrome: a comprehensive LC-MS/MS approach

ABSTRACT Fast-growing broilers are prone to pulmonary hypertension, which is the main cause of death in broilers with ascites syndrome (AS). The underlying mechanisms of AS and the role of metabolomics changes involved in this pathological process are still not fully understood. In this study, 180 1-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into the test group (injected intravenously with carboxymethyl cellulose CM-32 ion exchange suspension) and the control group (injected with the same volume of saline). A comprehensive metabolic analysis based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) on the sera of the test group and the control group was conducted to identify the metabolomics profiles. Results showed significant differences in packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin in blood (HGB), right ventricle wall/total ventricle (RV/TV) value, and body weight between the test group and control group. Significant variations in the levels of 29 metabolites were found between the two groups, among which 17 metabolites showed a remarkable increase and 12 metabolites significantly reduced. Metabolomics analysis showed that major alterations were related to purine metabolism, glycerol phospholipid metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism and biosynthesis of phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan. The study uncovered AS pathogenesis in broilers, offering new insights for diagnostic and therapeutic targets.