Please join Santiago Diaz for his Molecular and Macromolecular Sciences Seminar Program presentation entitled "The Role of Folic Acid Peptide Conjugate on Chicken B-Cells Innate Immunity ".

Abstract: Folate is the generic term referring to both natural folates in food and folic acid, which is the synthetic form that is used in supplements and fortified food. Folic acid (FA) can act as a dietary immunomodulator and one of the mechanisms may be via epigenetic mechanisms. The link between supplementation of FA and changes in the promoter regions of genes are directly linked to the capabilities of the immune cells to respond to infections. Avian and mammals require external sources of FA to reach the levels that their metabolism demands. It has been demonstrated the folate deficiency alters significantly the immune response. The objective of this project is to evaluate the effects of FA, FA peptide conjugate, and probiotic FA producer supplementation on the innate immune system response on chicken B-cells. Therefore FA as ((6R,S)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolic acid, calcium salt), FA peptide conjugate, and FA/folate-producing probiotic strains (Bifidobacterium adolescentis), will be used as model to evaluate the epigenetic changes in embryos from breeder hens. In addition, the impact on the FA levels in blood and yolk will be evaluated.

All are welcome to attend!