Abstract

In order to reveal the functions of Epimedium (EPI) on the recovery of the reproductive system of laying hens, 120 Hy-Line Brown laying hens (43-week-old) were forced molt through feed withdrawal for 14 days. After the molting period, layer hens were divided into four groups: Dark-control group in a dark environment without any treatment; dark-EPI group in a dark environment and with EPI treatment; light-control group without any treatment under normal illumination (16L: 8D); light- EPI group with EPI treatment under normal illumination (16L: 8D). EPI treatment was maintained for 15 days and each hen received 2 ml of EPI extract (1 g/mL) daily. The rate of egg production was calculated every day. At the end of the experiment, estrogen receptor alpha mRNA, estrogen receptor beta mRNA, and progesterone receptor mRNA in the albumen secreting part and uterus of the oviduct were detected by q-PCR, and the level of serum progesterone, estrogen and luteinizing hormone was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results showed that EPI effectively improved the laying rate of hens both in dark groups and light groups by promoting the recovery of the oviduct and follicle maturation. In addition, EPI promoted the secretion of estrogen and progesterone both in dark and light groups and improved the expression of estrogen receptor alpha and progesterone receptor in the light group. The results of the experiment provide a good reference for using EPI to improve the development and recovery of the reproductive system of layer hens.