Evaluation of a toxoid fusion protein vaccine produced in plants to protect poultry against necrotic enteritis.

Background: Necrotic enteritis (NE) is caused by type A strains of the bacterium . Total global economic losses to the poultry industry due to NE is estimated to be over two billion dollars annually. Traditionally, NE has been effectively controlled by inclusion of antibiotics in the diet of poultry.

Salmonella-vectored vaccine delivering three Clostridium perfringens antigens protects poultry against necrotic enteritis.

Necrotic enteritis is an economically important poultry disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens. There are currently no necrotic enteritis vaccines commercially available for use in broiler birds, the most important target population. Salmonella-vectored vaccines represent a convenient and effective option for controlling this disease.