The comparative physiological, biochemical and whole transcriptome analysis of Ross 308 broilers under different wind conditions

Chickens are one of the most economically and nutritionally important livestock species globally, yet they are highly vulnerable to environmental stressors which compromise their growth and physiological stability. In this study we investigated the effect of wind speed on growth performance, physiological responses, blood profiles, and transcriptomic adaptations in Ross-308 broilers under high-temperature conditions. A total of 240 broilers were divided into three groups: low wind, high temperature (LWH; 33°C, 60% RH, 0 m/s), medium wind, high temperature (MWH; 33°C, 60% RH, 1 m/s), and high wind, high temperature (HWH; 33°C, 60% RH, 2 m/s). The results showed that broilers in the HWH and MWH groups had significantly higher feed intake, body weight gain, and improved thermoregulation, as indicated by lower rectal temperatures and respiration rates compared to the LWH group. Additionally, serum potassium and phosphorus levels were higher in the HWH and MWH groups, indicating enhanced metabolic stability under heat stress. Transcriptomic analysis identified differentially expressed genes associated with the heat stress response, such as HSPB9, THBS1, TLR2, EHHADH, and PDK4. Functional enrichment analysis identified pathways related to vital processes, innate immune responses, and biosynthetic pathways, which contribute to thermal resilience. Upregulated genes like PDK4 and heat shock proteins were associated with improved energy efficiency and stress response, whereas downregulated genes in LWH indicated compromised growth. This study underscores the vital role of wind speed in ameliorating heat stress effects in broilers, laying the groundwork for enhanced environmental management and potential genetic and nutritional strategies in poultry production.