Surveillance of the antibiotic resistance genes in Vibrio parahemolyticus

Vibrio parahemolyticus represents the most rapidly increasing foodbourne illness encountered in foods. Whereas cases of more commonly encountered pathogen such as Salmonella have remained static, those associated with Vibrio have increased over the last 20 years. Part of the increased incidence is due to better diagnostics but also warming of sea via climate change have also been highlighted.
In the proposed project, we will investigate the prevalence and drug resistance of Vibrio isolates from seafood. This will encompass undertaking sampling visits at processing and retail establishments then screened using PCR based methods. Isolates will be recovered from presumptive positive samples and drug resistance assessed. The genetic relationship between isolates will be undertaken and biomarkers highlighting virulent strains identified. The study will provide important data to determine the prevalence of Vibrio parahemolyticus within the Shanghai area and virulence is strains encountered.

Faculty Supervisor:

Keith Warriner

Student:

Chelsey Tremblay

Partner:

Discipline:

Food science

Sector:

University:

University of Guelph

Program:

Globalink