The relationship between SOD1 and Hsp70 expression in broiler ileum throughout post-hatching development

Heat shock proteins (Hsps) are molecular chaperones that play critical functions in the survival and development of cells. Hsps influence adaptive and innate immune responses and may promote cross-talk between the two systems. Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are metalloenzymes that play an essential role in the body's defense against oxidative stress by efficiently removing excess reactive oxygen species. This study is an experimental study that was conducted to determine the relationship between SOD1 and Hsp70 expression in the ileum during the post-hatching development of the broiler. In the study, samples were taken from ileum tissue of 0-, 21- and 42-day-old broilers were used as material. While the Hsp70 immunoreactivity observed in the epithelial cells was specific to a few cells on day 0, it was detected in more villus epithelial cells on days 21 and 42. The Hsp70 expression in the ileum increased from the age 0 to up to day 42, especially in villus epithelial cells. In sections stained by SOD1, the ileum's villus epithelial cells and smooth muscle cells showed an intracytoplasmic reaction. From day 21 to day 42, a regular increase in SOD1 expression was detected in the crypt and villus epithelial cells. As a remarkable finding, a more intense intracytoplasmic staining was detected in villus epithelial cells located at the apex of intestinal villi. In conclusion, it was observed that SOD1 and Hsp70 expression increased in the ileum tissue throughout post-hatching development in broilers with a positive correlation with age. Based on the histological findings, it can be concluded that SOD1 and Hsp70 play a critical protective role in the small intestine after hatching and contribute to the rapid development of the intestine.