Bacterial Evolution, Antibiotic Resistence and In Vivo Gene Transfer

The evolution of bacteria involves both the selection of mutations for improved adaptation to their environment and the transfer of genetic material between strains. These processes are being investigated in food-borne human pathogens and food- use industrial strains. The work is important in the context the development of robust strains that challenge food preservation strategies, the development of antibiotic resistance and the potential for gene transfer associated with GM food.