Effects of <i>Lactobacillus plantarum</i> ZG-7 on the intestinal barrier and intestinal flora of Muscovy ducks infected with avian pathogenic <i>Escherichia coli</i>.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) poses a serious challenge to global poultry production, where it causes enteritis, septicemia, and high mortality, resulting in substantial economic losses. Although antibiotics have been traditionally used to control APEC, the rise of antimicrobial resistance and concerns over drug residues underscore the need for effective and sustainable alternatives. Probiotics have emerged as promising candidates because of their ability to modulate the intestinal microbiota, strengthen host immunity, and preserve epithelial barrier integrity. In this study, we investigated the protective role of Lactobacillus plantarum ZG-7 against APEC infection in Muscovy ducks.

Methods

40 one-day-old ducks (equal numbers of males an

SUBMITTER: Peng S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12855469 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature