The research project entitled The potential for using hydrogels with immobilised hydrolates as carriers of active substances in the prevention of bacterial infections in poultry focuses on innovative biotechnological solutions in animal production. This research aims to develop new methods for preventing bacterial infections in poultry, which is particularly important in the context of growing antibiotic resistance and the search for alternative health-oriented strategies in animal production.
The main aim of this research is to investigate the antibacterial properties of extracted hydrolates and hydrogels containing immobilised distillation by-product hydrolates. This research focuses on hydrolates derived from herbs commonly cultivated in Poland, such as narrow-leaved lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and peppermint (Mentha piperita), in relation to Escherichia coli strains with various levels of drug resistance, isolated from broiler chickens.
The immobilisation of hydrolates in hydrogel matrices is a key element of the project’s innovation. The traditional use of hydrolates is limited by their instability in the avian gastrointestinal tract and the rapid degradation of their active compounds. Hydrogels, as three-dimensional polymer networks, can protect sensitive active compounds from degradation in the acidic stomach environment and from digestive enzymes. They also provide controlled and prolonged release of active ingredients in the target sections of the poultry digestive tract. This approach has the potential to significantly increase the effectiveness of health-promoting measures, improve animal welfare and reduce the use of antibiotics in poultry production.
The findings of Adaszyńska-Skwirzyńska’s research have significant practical potential, particularly in the context of the global problem of antibiotic resistance and the One Health approach. Poland, as the largest producer of poultry meat in the European Union, is facing the problem of E. coli infections in poultry, which are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. The MINIATURA 10 project accounts for preliminary surveys, but successful appearance at the competition significantly increases the chances of securing further funding, confirming the innovation and scientific potential of the conducted research. Adaszyńska-Skwirzyńska PhD plans to utilise the obtained results, which will be crucial for continuing applied in vivo research as part of subsequent research projects funded by the National Science Centre (NCN) and the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR).
Photo: Jerzy Muszyński/ZUT
