Potential Beneficial Effects of Probiotics Against Necrotic Enteritis in Broilers.

Abstract

Necrotic enteritis (NE) is a significant disease in broiler chickens, primarily caused by Clostridium perfringens, leading to considerable economic losses in the poultry industry. Traditionally, antibiotics have been used to manage and prevent NE. However, due to increasing concerns over antibiotic resistance and regulatory restrictions on antibiotic use, alternative strategies are being explored. Probiotics, which are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, have emerged as a promising alternative. This review spot the light on the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of NE in broilers. Various probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus, Bacillus, and Enterococcus species, have demonstrated potential in enhancing gut health, modulating the immune response, and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Studies indicate that probiotics can reduce the incidence and severity of NE, improve growth performance, and maintain gut microbiota balance. Furthermore, probiotics offer a natural and sustainable approach to managing NE without contributing to antibiotic resistance. Future researches should focus on optimizing probiotic formulations, dosing regimens, and understanding the mechanisms underlying their protective effects to fully harness their potential as an alternative to antibiotics in poultry production.