Effects of Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) Feeding on Growth Performance, Immune Response, and Gene Expression Associated with Productive Traits in Livestock and Poultry: A Review

The escalating global demand for sustainable animal production necessitates the exploration of alternative protein sources for livestock and poultry. This review synthesizes current scientific evidence on the dietary inclusion of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) meal, focusing on its impact on growth performance, immune response, and gene expression associated with productive traits. T. molitor offers a promising alternative due to its high protein content (۴۵-۶۰% DM), balanced amino acid profile (rich in lysine and methionine), valuable lipid fraction (unsaturated fatty acids), and bioactive compounds like chitin and antimicrobial peptides. Available studies indicate that mealworm meal can effectively partially replace conventional protein sources (e.g., soybean and fish meal) without compromising body weight gain, feed intake, or feed conversion ratio, particularly in poultry, when included at appropriate levels. Beyond nutrition, T. molitor exhibits immunomodulatory potential, enhancing antioxidant capacity, modulating inflammatory responses (e.g., affecting cytokine gene expression like IL-۱β, TNF-α), and positively influencing gut microbiota, thereby contributing to improved gut health and nutrient utilization. Molecular insights reveal that T. molitor components can regulate genes involved in immune signaling, oxidative stress defense (e.g., SOD, Nrf۲), muscle development (e.g., IGF-۱, MyoD), and lipid metabolism. However, responses are variable, influenced by animal species, inclusion level, processing method, and diet formulation. Challenges such as nutritional variability, chitin content, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory harmonization remain. Overall, T. molitor meal represents a sustainable and functional feed ingredient with significant potential. Further research is warranted to optimize inclusion rates, standardize processing, and elucidate its molecular mechanisms of action to fully harness its benefits in modern livestock and poultry production

کلیدواژه ها:

Animal nutrition ، Alternative protein sources ، Edible insects ، Insect meal ، Nutrigenomics