HARINGHATA BLACK CHICKEN SHOWS RESISTANCE TO PATHOGENIC E. coli BY HIGH IMMUNE-EFFECTOR ACTIVITIES

Abstract

To substantiate the popular notion regarding disease-resistance potentiality of native breed of poultry against pathogens, immune responses in one native breed of India (Haringhata Black, HB), one of best adapted exotic breed of backyard system (Rhode Island Red, RIR) and commercial broiler birds against virulent E. coli were assessed upon experimental inoculation. Immunological parameters measured were superoxide production by heterophils, macrophage phagocytic activity, in vitro lymphoproliferation and antibody production against the antigens of E. coli. HB and RIR birds showed more cellular immune responses than that of broiler. Moreover, anti-E. coli antibody production was observed highest in HB than RIR and broiler as assessed by ELISA. Clinical manifestations in form of diarrhoea, roughned feather, rise of temperature as observed in broiler and RIR were not detected in HB birds. It is concluded that high immune responses shown by HB birds against virulent E. coli might be the driving factor of disease resistance as opposed to broiler and RIR birds where clinical symptoms were discernible.