ChangQing compound relieves Eimeria tenella infection symptoms by modulating intestinal probiotic and pathogenic bacteria balance

Abstract

Cecal coccidiosis is a severe and lethal parasitic disease affecting chickens, making the search for effective preventive agents free of contamination and drug resistance crucial for controlling this condition in poultry. Previous studies have demonstrated that the ChangQing compound has significant therapeutic effects against cecal coccidiosis; however, its potential as a preventive measure has yet to be evaluated. In this study, we established an experimental model for the prevention of cecal coccidiosis in chickens using the ChangQing compound for the first time. A comprehensive evaluation was performed on survival rates, relative weight gain, oocyst production, the anticoccidial index (ACI), immune parameters, parasitic tissue pathology, and microbial diversity in cecal contents. Results indicated that the ChangQing compound at a concentration of 5.0 g/L achieved an ACI of 178.10 in the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) group and 173.12 in the Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) group. Compared to the positive control group, cecal lesions were reduced, and indices for the spleen, liver, and bursa of Fabricius increased in both experimental groups following ChangQing administration. Furthermore, levels of immune factors, IgA, IgG, and IgM significantly elevated. The abundance of beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus, Bacteroides, and Alistipes, increased in the 5.0 g/L ChangQing compound group, while potential pathogens like Escherichia-Shigella, Enterococcus, and norank_f_Oscillospiraceae were reduced. These findings offer critical data for coccidiosis prevention in chickens and lay a theoretical foundation for future research on the antiparasitic mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine.