This research project will explore whether some chickens naturally resist infection better than others and how that resistance could strengthen commercial poultry flocks. “Producers need tools to mitigate their losses, and FFAR’s rapid funding is helping to develop the solutions they need,” said Dr. Miriam Martin LeValley, FFAR scientific program manager. They will also characterize immune responses to infection to identify the genes and biological pathways associated with disease resistance. “By identifying the genetic and immune factors that contribute to natural disease resistance, this research could help pave the way for more resilient poultry populations and improved long-term disease control.” Findings from this project could support future breeding programs aimed at enhancing natural resistance to disease in commercial poultry populations.