Applied research note: Microbiota shifts following withdrawal of probiotic expressing N-acyl-phosphatidyl ethanolamine acyltransferase activity in gut

The poultry industry faces a significant challenge known as the "broiler breeder paradox," where genetic selection for rapid growth adversely affects breeder reproductive performance. Currently, feed restriction is used to address this issue; however, it can lead to stress and welfare concerns in birds. A promising approach to alleviate these challenges involves modifying the host gut microbiota with genetically engineered probiotics. This study focuses on the effect of an E. coli Nissle, 1917 probiotic modified to express N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine acyl transferase (NAPE-EcN) on host microbiota. That probiotic is hypothesized to mitigate feed restriction-related stress by positively modulating the host microbiota. We investigated the effects of 5 weeks of daily NAPE-EcN administration on large intestinal microbiota composition and diversity in breeder pullets. Differences due to strain (Breed 1 vs. Breed 2) and persistence of week 5 microbiota profile 3 weeks after cessation of NAPE-EcN administration (week 5 vs. week 8). Results indicated that breed differences significantly impacted NAPE-EcN's effects on the microbiota profile, with greater effects observed in Breed 2. Additionally, NAPE-EcN suppressed specific bacterial taxa linked to metabolic disorder in Breed 2, suggesting potential for benefit in breeder management. These findings provide valuable insights for enhancing gut health in poultry and potential to improve the management of metabolic disorders in broiler breeders.