Investigating the Impact of Different <i>Bacillus thuringiensis</i> Strains on <i>Ascaris suum</i> Intestinal Changes

Abstract The parasitic nematode Ascaris suum is an economically significant worm that infects pigs and causes health issues and economic losses in pig farming. The intestine of A. suum is a long, straight tube that runs from the mouth to the anus and can be colonized by bacteria. Several bacteria have been studied for their potential antinematocidal effects. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a soil bacterium known to produce many toxic crystal proteins (Cry), is emerging as a promising candidate for nematode control. Treatment of A. suum with all tested Bt strains (SS_26.2, SS_29.2, SS_35.1, SS_37.7) resulted in histopathological changes in the parasite intestine. Our research highlights the anthelmintic effect of Cry proteins and emphasizes the potential of Bt as an alternative tool for controlling parasitic nematodes of domestic animals. The studied strains are promising for the eradication of A. suum as a novel, environmentally friendly and cost-effective One Health approach, but further testing in pigs is needed to confirm these findings.