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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
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A Neonatal BALB/c Mouse Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Published on: November 30, 2021
Necrotic enteritis in young calves
Winston E Morris1, Agustín J Venzano, Ana Elizondo
1Instituto de Patobiología, CICVyA-INTA Castelar, De los reseros y las Cabañas, CC 25, 1712 Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina. wmorris@cnia.inta.gov.ar
Summary
Non-enterotoxin producing Clostridium perfringens type A, without beta2 toxin, caused calf enteritis. Pathogenic E. coli may enhance these effects, indicating a complex etiology for calf intestinal disease.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Microbiology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Clostridium perfringens type A, specifically non-enterotoxin producing strains, is suspected in calf enteritis.
- The role of the beta2 toxin (CPB2) in this pathogenesis remains unclear, with limited supporting evidence.
Observation:
- Two calves with apathy, anorexia, and limb paresis were necropsied, revealing acute enteritis, rumenitis, meningitis, and pneumonia.
- Clostridium perfringens type A (non-CPE, non-CPB2) and pathogenic Escherichia coli (ONTH8 with cdtBIII and f17 genes) were isolated from multiple tissues.
Findings:
- Experimental inoculation of the C. perfringens strain into bovine intestinal loops induced significant pathological changes, including cell detachment, erosion, and hemorrhage.
- These lesions were most pronounced in the small intestine, supporting the bacterium's role in intestinal damage.
Implications:
- Non-CPE, non-CPB2 Clostridium perfringens type A can independently cause intestinal pathology in calves.
- Co-infection with other pathogens, such as specific E. coli strains, may exacerbate the severity and presentation of calf enteritis.
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