NOVEL ESCHERICHIA COLI GENETIC MARKERS FOR TRACKING FECAL POLLUTION OF AGRICULTURAL SOURCES IN WATER

The goal of this project is to reduce instances of human illness resulting from direct bodily contact (such as in recreational water activitiesor the ingestion of water, produce, and food contaminated by fecal matter. The goal is to be fulfilled through both research and extension activities:1. Research objective: To develop new methods for accurate detection of E. coli originating from agricultural sources, with a specific focus on those of cattle, pigs, and poultry. The objective will be achieved through comprehensive approaches of bioinformatics, molecular biology, and environmental microbiology, further validated by practical field tests.2. Extension objective: To enhance awareness and understanding among stakeholders about E. coli and fecal pollution. The objective will be realized through comprehensive outreach and education initiatives.