Interplay of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus metabolism in eggshell formation.

This book provides the reader with an update on the physiological background of eggshell formation in laying hens. It starts with a description of the biomineralization process, the structure, and the composition of the eggshell (Chapter 1 by Maxwell Hincke), followed by insights into the mechanisms and regulation of eggshell formation (Chapter 2 by Audrey Gloux), and the dynamics of body calcium stores (Chapter 3 by Doug Korver and Daniella Batres). Attention has been paid to changes in these processes while ageing. In Chapter 4, nutritional measures are described by Wayne Bryden et al. to maintain production performance, eggshell quality, and health. As high performance is not possible without a good health status, Ian Dunn addresses welfare challenges in Chapter 5. Based on the close relationship between vitamin D, mineral metabolism and eggshell formation, Kathrin Bühler gives an overview on vitamin D: its history, and its classical and non-classical effects in Chapter 6. In the last chapter, Sabrina Autzen introduces Solanum glaucophyllum, a plant that produces 1,25(OH)2D3-glycosides as a secondary metabolite, which makes it a unique tool to support eggshell formation in ageing laying hens.