Investigating the Impact of Eimeria spp. Infection and Vaccination on Broiler Gut Health and Microbiota Using a Metagenomic Approach

This study investigates the impact of Eimeria spp. infection and anticoccidial vaccination on broiler performance, intestinal lesions, and cecal microbiota structure and function using a metagenomic approach. A total of 144 Ross 308® broilers were divided into three experimental groups: (A) an unchallenged control group, (B) a group challenged with Eimeria spp., and (C) a group that received vaccination prior to challenge. Performance parameters were monitored weekly, intestinal lesion scores were assessed at multiple time points, and cecal microbiota samples were collected for 16S rRNA sequencing and predictive functional metagenomics analysis. The study aims to enhance understanding of how Eimeria infection and vaccination influence microbial composition and metabolic pathways, providing insights into potential strategies to improve poultry gut health and disease resilience.