Genomic Discovery Of Anthelmintic Resistance To Address Blackhead-Associated Losses In Poultry

USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation announce the completion of a research project focused on developing a genome from a fenbendazole-resistant population, both with and without Histomonas meleagridis (H. meleagridis). The research is part of the Association’s comprehensive research program encompassing all phases of poultry and egg production and processing and is made possible in part through proceeds from the International Poultry Expo, part of the International Production & Processing Expo.

Project #F108: Discovery of Novel Anthelmintic Resistance Genes to Reduce Production Loss Caused by Blackhead
(Dr. Erik C. Andersen, Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md.)

Poultry helminths threaten both profitability and animal welfare, yet only one de-wormer—fenbendazole (FBZ)—is approved for use. Evidence of emerging resistance underscores the urgent need to characterize its prevalence and genetic basis to inform sustainable control strategies. In this study, conducted by Dr. Erik C Andersen, professor at Johns Hopkins University, all Heterakis gallinarum populations tested were resistant to FBZ, reflecting its widespread use in poultry production. As a result, researchers shifted focus to developing a genome from an FBZ-resistant population, both with and without H. meleagridis.

The research summary can be found on the USPOULTRY website. For more information, visit uspoultry.org.