Deoxynivalenol and poultry intestinal health: Mechanisms, current mitigation options, and future-ready feed safety strategies

Deoxynivalenol (DON), a heat-resistant trichothecene commonly found in cereals, primarily affects poultry growth by disrupting gut integrity, altering microbiota composition, and impairing mucosal immune function. This review highlights the effects of DON on gut microbiota, compromising the intestinal barrier and immune health in poultry. Synthesizing current research deepens understanding of the molecular mechanisms of DON, including its effects on gut health, microbiota, and enterohepatic interactions. We explore emerging evidence on microbiota-targeted and mitochondrial-focused strategies and compare mitigation approaches based on their effectiveness, practicality, benefits, and limitations in poultry. These insights are crucial for the agriculture and poultry industries, connecting molecular research with practical methods to improve feed safety and poultry well-being, thereby helping reduce economic losses.