Pilot study on CHCF1 genotype in a pig challenge model for enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F4ab/ac associated post-weaning diarrhea

Abstract

Abstract Host genotype is important for enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) susceptibility. We conducted two trials to evaluate the effect of CHCF1 genotype on incidence of ETEC diarrhea. In trial 1 (n = 15 pigs), pigs were inoculated with 108 CFU or 1010 CFU doses of an ETEC F4ac strain. In trial 2 (n = 33 pigs), pigs were inoculated with ETEC F4ab or F4ac. Across trials, all inoculated pigs that developed ETEC diarrhea were CHCF1 heterozygous susceptible (6/6). No inoculated CHCF1 homozygous resistant pigs developed ETEC diarrhea (0/26). Susceptibility towards ETEC F4ac/ab infection might correspond with CHCF1 genotype.

Keywords

• Diarrhea
• Inoculum dose
• Experimental infection
• Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli
• F4 fimbriae
• Genetic marker