Project Snapshot
Surveillance Pillar
Investigation of AMR Spread via MGEs and Developing Machine Learning Biotools for Quantitative AMR Level Prediction
Project Key Words: Biotools, Mobile Genetic Elements, Horizontal Gene Transfer, Genomics, Antimicrobial Resistance
Principal Investigator: Tim McAllister, PhD; Athan Zovoillis, PhD
Co-Investigator(s): Chad Laing, PhD; Rahat Zaheer, PhD; Vic Gannon, PhD
Project Theme: Innovation and Commercialization
The Aim
To expand information on the role of mobile genetic elements (MGE) in the spread and persistence of AMR from a “One Health” perspective and to develop machine learning biotools for quantitative AMR prediction and transmission. |
Why is this important?
MGEs such as plasmids and integrative and conjugative elements (ICE) are integral to the exchange of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) within bacterial populations and converting susceptible bacteria to multidrug resistant (MDR). Regulatory factors that control the mobility and the expression of ARGs are critical for assessing risk and developing AMR policy as part of a “One Health” initiative. |
Outcomes
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Research Questions
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Our Approach
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Leveraged Sources of Support
- GRDI
- Beef Cattle Research Council
- Gemone Canada
- Alberta Agriculture
- AAFC, CFIA, U of L infrastructure
Knowledge & Technology: Exchange and Exploitation
- Identification of new tools for the management of AMR within livestock and humans
- Understanding role of MGEs within bacterial pathogens
- Informing policy and risk management
- Partnership with commercial sector
Highly Qualified Personel
- 1 Research Assistant (Matthew S-Edwards)
- 1 PhD Students (Sani-E-Zehra Zaidi)
- 1 MSc Student (Janice Moat)