Identification of Host and Pathogen Factors Responsible for the Establishment of Persistent Carriage and Antibiotic Tolerance in Enterobacterial Pathogens

About the project

In this study, our focus lies specifically on two enterobacterial pathogens: Escherichia coli and Shigella. These pathogens are responsible for a significant burden of infectious diseases worldwide, causing various clinical manifestations ranging from mild gastrointestinal illnesses to severe and life-threatening conditions. Understanding the factors that contribute to their persistent carriage and antibiotic tolerance is crucial for effective disease management and prevention. By narrowing our investigation to E. coli and Shigella, we can delve deeper into the unique characteristics and genetic traits of these pathogens, shedding light on their ability to establish chronic infections and develop resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Such knowledge can aid in the development of targeted interventions and therapeutic approaches to mitigate the impact of these pathogens on human health.

Funding

This work is funded by the School of Life Sciences (University of Westminster) Enhanced Consumables Fund and Research Startup Fund.

Contact

For further information contact the Principal Investigator Dr. Vincenzo Torraca at .