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The Animal Bioscience and Biotechnology Laboratory at the ARS-USDA Beltsville, MD. Center has developed a unique recombinant Bacillus subtilis probiotic expressing chicken NK-lysin peptide-2 with direct cytotoxicity against Eimeria* The probiotic proved effective against infection with E. acervulina that parasitizes the distal duodenum resulting in mild coccidiosis and serving as a precursor of necrotic enteritis.  An oral dose of the prebiotic reduced oocyst shedding on days six through nine, post-inoculation.

In reviewing the trial, the following points are noted:

• A limited number of birds (81) were used

• The trial was conducted on wire which does not correspond to practical conditions permitting coprophagy and possible exposure to other Eimeria species and bacterial pathogens.

• The trial was terminated at 28 days. This does not represent commercial conditions

• There was no decrease in live weight or depression in weight gain as a result of infection with E. acervulina consistent with the low pathogenicity of this strain.

• Since the probiotic is a recombinant strain use in producing certified organic product will probably be disallowed

The product will be commercialized by US Biologics Inc. although it is recognized that considerable work will be required to demonstrate the practical and financial benefits from the recombinant B. subtilis probiotic.

*Wickramasuriya, S. et al. Oral Delivery of Bacillus subtilis Expressing Chicken NK-2 Peptide Protects Against Eimeria acervulina Infection in Broiler Chickens.  Front. Vet. Sci., June 4th 2021 doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2021.684818.