Antibody-free animal breeding protects human health, reduces the problem of resistance, and improves food safety. Shikimic acid (SA) is an important biochemical metabolite in plants and microorganisms that is known for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. In our project, we engineered the native shikimate pathway of E. coli to accumulate, SA more efficiently. We plan to use it as a feed additive for preventive use in livestock breeding during seasons of high disease incidence. It will help improve the immunity of livestock and poultry, reduce the use of antibiotics, and potentially huge economic losses, and acheive the goal of sustainability.
