Researchers purified proteins fromCampylobacterand tested them for potential use as vaccines. One particular protein, FliD, showed particular promise.
"We found that this protein is present in all of our 21C. jejuniisolates and is immunogenic in broilers," according to the researchers' report. "Therefore, this protein will be an excellent candidate for further evaluation as a vaccine to reduceCampylobacterin poultry. In addition, antibodies to this protein may be used for as a tool to monitor theCampylobacterstatus during poultry production."
The researchers also found that broiler sera reacted to a variety ofCampylobacterproteins, demonstrating that chickens had been exposed to or infected withCampylobacterand consequently developed antibodies against it. The study showed antibodies against the FliD protein were widespread in poultry populations.
"Therefore, control ofCampylobacterexposure through vaccination of chickens is a logical approach toCampylobactercontrol, and the FliD protein is a good vaccine candidate," the report stated. "Further studies must be done to evaluate the use of this protein byin ovoapplication to determine its potential practical use and efficacy."
