ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ESCHERICHIA. COLI FROM POULTRY WITH BACTERIOPHAGE THERAPY PROSPECT

Abstract

Common bacteria known as Escherichia coli are naturally present in birds' digestive tracts and, consequently, in their surroundings. Clinical condition known as colibacillosis, is thought to be among the most prevalent and significant illnesses affecting poultry. Avian Pathogenic E. coli (APEC) is the causative agent of colibacillosis. All age groups of birds as well as commercial layers, broiler chickens, and breeders are susceptible to colibacillosis. For many decades, antibiotics have been the main offensive against colibacillosis. However, the need for alternative treatments for colibacillosis and a focus on disease prevention measures has arisen due to the rise in antibiotic resistance. In order to isolate E. coli from five broiler chickens various organs were collected. In the current study total of 2 bacterial strains EC328 and EC329, were isolated from chicken. Standard biochemical and cultural procedures were used to identify the isolates as E. coli. The biochemical test results show that isolates don’t react with urease test and did react with lactose fermentation and indole test. To determine the pattern of antibiotic sensitivity in the isolated isolates, sensitivity testing was conducted. The antimicrobial sensitivity rates of tetracycline, enrofloxicin, and azithromycin were the highest and were 90%, 100%, and 90%, respectively. Two bacteriophages against E. coli were discovered, identified, and given the names ECP8 and ECP9 during this study. It is suggested that due to their superior bacterial growth reduction, both of these bacteriophages (ECP8 and ECP9) may be possible phage treatment options in the future after the necessary animal models and clinical studies are completed.

Keywords: Colibacillosis, Poultry, Antimicrobial resistance, Phage therapy