Centennial Review: Recent developments in host-pathogen interactions during necrotic enteritis in poultry

Area of Science:

• Poultry Science
• Veterinary Medicine
• Microbiology

Background:

• Necrotic enteritis (NE) is a major poultry disease causing substantial global economic losses.
• Subclinical NE significantly impacts broiler performance (feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio) with minimal mortality.
• Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) effectively managed NE, but their removal poses challenges to bird health and industry profitability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the complex relationship between NE pathogenesis, the gut microbiome, and host immune responses.
• To highlight the economic impact of NE, particularly subclinical forms, on the poultry industry.
• To explore the potential of antibiotic alternatives in managing NE and supporting gut health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on NE pathogenesis, microbiome dynamics, and host immunity.
• Analysis of existing research on antibiotic alternatives like probiotics, prebiotics, essential oils, and organic acids.
• Synthesis of information regarding the efficacy of these alternatives compared to AGPs.

Main Results:

• NE pathogenesis involves complex interactions between the host, pathogens, and gut microbiota.
• Subclinical NE has a greater economic impact than acute NE due to performance decrements.
• Current antibiotic alternatives show promise but have not fully matched AGP efficacy in controlling NE.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of NE, microbiome, and immune interactions is crucial for strategic disease management.
• Developing novel supplements requires building upon current knowledge of NE pathogenesis and host responses.
• Effective strategies are needed to improve the efficacy of existing antibiotic alternatives or create next-generation gut health solutions.