Effects of Plantago major extract on serum protein fractions in broiler diet

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of Plantago major's (P.major) water extract added into broiler diets at different levels on serum protein fractions. A total of 112 Ross 308 broiler chicks were used in the study. Experiment consisted of control and 3 treatment groups with a 28 chicks within each group. Each experimental group was divided into four subgroups consisting of 4 chicks. A basal (control) diet was prepared and three experimental diets were established by addition of P.major into basal diet; P.major 1 (5 g/kg feed), P.major 2 (10 g/kg feed), P.major 3 (15 g/kg feed). Broiler chicks were fed with these diets for 42 days ad libitum. Total protein levels of P.major 3 group were lower than other groups and controls. It was determined that the albumin percentages and levels became decreased in a significant ratio in the P.major 1 and P.major 2, (P<0, 05), Alpha 1 globulin percentage and concentration were found significantly high in P.major 2 group than the other groups (P<0.05), Alpha 2 level and percentage in P.major 1 group was seen significantly higher than the control group, the A/G ratio in P.major 1 and P.major 2 was seen significantly lower than the control group. There was no significant difference between groups for beta and gamma globulins as percentage.