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Title: GUT IMMUNE RESPONSES AND INTERVENTION STRATEGIES AGAINST EIMERIA AND SALMONELLA

Author
item Lillehoj, Hyun

Submitted to: International Seminar on Poultry Production and Pathology Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/1/2002
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: For the development of logical vaccines and new control strategies against enteric pathogens, comprehensive understanding of intestinal immune system and basic immunobiology of host-microbes interaction is necessary. In this paper which was presented at the VIIIth International Seminars on Poultry Pathology and Production, ARS scientist highlight recent progress in host immune responses against Eimeria and Salmonella. This information will help scientists at academia and industry to gain new knowledge on host immunity to pathogens in poultry.

Technical Abstract: To keep pace with the increasing demand for the high quality, low cost protein source that poultry provides, intensive rearing practices have been developed within the past few decades. For example, chickens are housed routinely in crowded environments under adverse conditions and genetic strains have been selected for rapid growth, high protein-to-fat content and superior egg laying characteristics. A major negative consequence of these practices has been an increase in the incidence of diseases. Enteric diseases in particular have emerged as a major problem threatening the future viability of the poultry industry. A variety of methods have been used to combat avian diseases in the commercial setting including improved farm management practices, use of antibiotic drugs, selection of disease resistant chicken strains and manipulation of the chicken immune system. In the latter category, development of vaccines against the major avian diseases has become a priority in the poultry industry. For the development of logical vaccines and new control strategies against enteric pathogens, comprehensive understanding of intestinal immune system and basic immunobiology of host-microbes interaction is necessary. This paper will highlight recent progress in host immune responses against Eimeria and Salmonella.