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Competitive exclusion approach using an E. coli live vaccine to protect broilers from colonization with ESBL-/ pAmpC-
Diana Vargas1, Roswitha Merle2, Anika Friese3
1Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany. diana.vargas.gallo@fu-berlin.de.
Scientific Reports
|July 8, 2025
Summary
A live Escherichia coli (E. coli) vaccine using a single strain did not prevent antimicrobial-resistant E. coli colonization in broilers. This competitive exclusion approach showed only a temporary reduction in resistant E. coli.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Food Safety
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in broilers present a significant public health concern due to potential spread via the food chain.
- Competitive exclusion (CE) using live bacteria is explored as a strategy to reduce pathogen colonization in poultry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a live Escherichia coli (E. coli) vaccine, as a single-strain competitive exclusion (CE) agent, in reducing colonization by ESBL- and pAmpC-producing E. coli in broilers.
Main Methods:
- 168 broilers were used, divided into experimental and control groups.
- The E. coli vaccine was administered via coarse spray or drinking water.
- Experimental groups were challenged with specific strains of ESBL- and pAmpC-producing E. coli.
Main Results:
- A transient reduction in ESBL-producing E. coli colonization was observed after coarse spray administration (p < 0.001).
- This reduction in colonization was not sustained throughout the fattening period.
- No significant long-term decrease in ESBL-/pAmpC- E. coli colonization was achieved.
Conclusions:
- A single E. coli strain vaccine is insufficient to reduce colonization of broilers with ESBL-/pAmpC- E. coli throughout the entire fattening period.
- Further research into multi-strain CE approaches or alternative strategies may be necessary to combat resistant E. coli in poultry.
