Optimization of Maduramicin Ammonium-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Using Box–Behnken Design for Enhanced Anticoccidial Effect against Eimeria tenella in Broiler Chickens

Abstract

Maduramicin ammonium (MAD) is one of the most frequently used anticoccidial agents in broiler chickens. However, the high toxicity and low solubility of MAD limit its clinical application. In this study, MAD-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (MAD–NLCs) were prepared to overcome the defects of MAD by using highly soluble nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). The formulation was optimized via a three-level, three-factor Box–Behnken response surface method. Then, the optimal MAD–NLCs were evaluated according to their hydrodynamic diameter (HD), zeta potential (ZP), crystal structure, encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL), in vitro release, and anticoccidial effect. The optimal MAD–NLCs had an HD of 153.6 ± 3.044 nm and a ZP of −41.4 ± 1.10 mV. The X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy results indicated that the MAD was encapsulated in the NLCs in an amorphous state. The EE and DL were 90.49 ± 1.05% and 2.34 ± 0.04%, respectively, which indicated that the MAD was efficiently encapsulated in the NLCs. In the in vitro study, the MAD–NLCs demonstrated a slow and sustained drug release behavior. Notably, MAD–NLCs had an excellent anticoccidial effect against Eimeria tenella in broiler chickens. In summary, MAD–NLCs have huge potential to form a new preparation administered via drinking water with a powerful anticoccidial effect.

Inhibitory effect of morin on aldolase 2 from Eimeria tenella

“…The annual cost of coccidiosis prevention and treatment exceeds USD 14.5 billion worldwide ( Blake et al, 2020 ). Among the seven known species ( Zhang et al, 2013 ), Eimeria tenella ( E. tenella ) is the most common and clinically pathogenic species that can cause severe cecal lesions and death in chickens ( Zhang et al, 2022 ). Although coccidia control mainly depends on anticoccidial drugs, there are growing concerns about anticoccidial resistance and drug residues.…”

Oral vaccination with a recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum expressing the Eimeria tenella rhoptry neck 2 protein elicits protective immunity in broiler chickens infected with Eimeria tenella

“…The calculation formula was as follows: ACI = (relative rate of weight gain + survival rate) − (lesion value + oocyst value). The ACI values are quantified according to the following criteria: ACI < 120, a mild curative effect; 120 < ACI ≤ 160, a moderate curative effect; 160 < ACI ≤ 180, a marked curative effect; and ACI > 180, an excellent curative effect [ 21 ].…”

Curcumin Supplementation Improves Growth Performance and Anticoccidial Index by Improving the Antioxidant Capacity, Inhibiting Inflammatory Responses, and Maintaining Intestinal Barrier Function in Eimeria tenella-Infected Broilers

“…The invasion of E. tenella destroys the intestinal mucosal barrier and causes cecum swelling and bleeding and the excretion of large amounts of bloody stool after infection [4,5]. Intestinal damage due to coccidiosis can also lead to increased intestinal permeability, reduced digestibility, poor growth rate, and, subsequently, the death of severely infected chickens [6,7]. Currently, the main drugs used to control Eimeria infection include polyether ionophores, antibiotics, and chemically synthesized drugs [8].…”