Campylobacter infection in chickens modulates the intestinal epithelial barrier function

Area of Science:

• Poultry Science
• Veterinary Medicine
• Microbiology

Background:

• Asymptomatic Campylobacter jejuni carriage is common in commercial chicken flocks.
• The impact of chronic, subclinical Campylobacter infection on chicken intestinal function is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of chronic Campylobacter jejuni carriage on intestinal barrier function, ion transport, and histomorphology in chickens.
• To determine the association between Campylobacter carriage and growth performance in the absence of clinical symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Commercial chickens were orally infected with Campylobacter jejuni.
• Ion transport and barrier function were measured using short-circuit current (I(sc)) and transepithelial ion conductance (G(t)) in Ussing chambers.
• Intestinal histomorphology and body mass gain were assessed.

Main Results:

• Campylobacter infection increased G(t) in the cecum and colon, and altered G(t) in the jejunum over time.
• A decrease in net charge transfer (I(sc)) was observed across all intestinal segments.
• Histomorphological changes included reduced villus height, crypt depth, and surface area in the jejunum.
• Body mass gain was significantly reduced in infected chickens.

Conclusions:

• Chronic Campylobacter jejuni carriage significantly alters intestinal barrier function and ion transport in chickens.
• These intestinal changes are associated with reduced growth performance, despite the absence of clinical signs.
• This study highlights the detrimental effects of subclinical Campylobacter infections on poultry health and productivity.