Evaluating the effects of Neferine could provide new insights into the modulation of ileum mucosa-associated microbiota, thereby improving growth and gut health in mice challenged with Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F18ab.

Diarrheic disease is a prevalent intestinal health issue worldwide, causing significant suffering to both humans and animals. Effective management strategies based on plant extracts for combating Diarrheic diseases have not yet been fully developed. In newborns and young animals, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F18ab (ECN) may cause severe intestinal diarrhea and damage the function of the intestinal epithelial barrier. Neferine (NEF) is bis-benzylisoquinoline alkaloid compound with anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal and antibacterial properties. This study determined the potential of NEF on the impaired growth and impacts of regulation on gut microbiota in ECN induced in mice.