Tuesday, January 14, 2025

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Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Cracking The Code Of Poultry Pathogens

A university-led research initiative is tackling a rapidly spreading pathogen that poses significant challenges to the Australian poultry industry.
The microorganism, Enterococcus cecorum (EC), is a contagious bacterium responsible for severe health issues in poultry. One of its most debilitating effects is spinal cord compression, commonly referred to as "kinky back," which can lead to paralysis and increased mortality rates in affected flocks.
The research, titled “Integrated Investigation of Enterococcus cecorum Prevalence, Transmission Routes, Predisposition Factors, Pathogenic Mechanisms, and Mitigation Strategies in Broilers,” is supported by the AgriFutures Australia Chicken Meat Program. Led by Central Queensland University’s Institute for Future Farming Systems (IFFS), the study aims to explore every aspect of EC’s impact on poultry health and develop strategies to mitigate its effects.
IFFS Molecular Microbiology Cluster Leader, Professor Dana Stanley, highlighted the growing threat of EC to the industry.
“This pathogen has serious implications for the health of birds and the profitability of the industry,” Professor Stanley said.
“We’re working to uncover the role of coinfection and microbial communication, how it spreads, how it causes disease, and, most importantly, how we can stop it.”
The project is leveraging 16 interconnected studies to create the most comprehensive dataset on poultry microbiota ever compiled. Artificial intelligence-assisted prediction and analysis models will be employed to provide an in-depth understanding of EC outbreaks.
“Our work goes beyond identifying the pathogen—we’re uncovering its full genomic blueprint. This is critical for designing interventions that are not only effective but also sustainable in the long term,” Professor Stanley explained.
The research involves advanced techniques, including genomics, molecular typing, and co-culture experiments using a continuous culture gut simulator fermentation system.
“The gut simulator allows us to test how EC behaves in the presence of other bacteria and additives like probiotics and prebiotics. This is vital for identifying co-infection mechanisms and designing targeted interventions,” Professor Stanley said.
The ultimate goal of the research is to develop effective solutions such as improved biosecurity practices, probiotics, prebiotics, and phytogen-based strategies to ensure the sustainability of broiler farming.
“We’re committed to translating our findings into practical strategies that improve animal welfare, reduce industry losses, and ensure sustainability,” Professor Stanley said.
“This research represents a significant step forward in combating EC. By understanding its behaviour and interactions at a molecular level, we can provide producers with the tools they need to protect their flocks and their livelihoods.”

Professor Dana Stanley. Photo source: CQUniversity

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