Veterinary Medicine and Science, cilt.11, sa.3, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
This study investigates the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) supplementation on growth performance and the expression of MYF5 and IGF-1 genes in Japanese quails. A total of 116 quails were assigned to four dietary treatments: Control, Moringa-1 (2% MOLP), Moringa-2 (4% MOLP), and Moringa-3 (6% MOLP). Body weights were recorded weekly, and gene expression levels were analysed using quantitative real-time PCR. The results showed significant improvements in body weight and feed efficiency in the Moringa-2 and Moringa-3 groups compared to the Control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the expression levels of MYF5 and IGF-1 increased dose-dependent, with the highest expression observed in the Moringa-3 group. These findings demonstrate the potential of MOL as a natural feed additive to enhance growth performance and modulate molecular pathways related to muscle development in poultry. This study provides valuable insights for sustainable poultry production and highlights the need for further research on optimal inclusion levels and the long-term effects of MOL supplementation.