Matrine reduced intestinal stem cell damage in eimeria necatrix-infected chicks via blocking hyperactivation of Wnt signaling.

Background: Coccidiosis is a rapidly spreading and acute parasitic disease that seriously threatening the intestinal health of poultry. Matrine from leguminous plants has anthelmintic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose: This assay was conducted to explore the protective effects of Matrine and the AntiC (a Matrine compound) on Eimeria necatrix (EN)-infected chick small intestines and to provide a nutritional intervention strategy for EN injury.