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The development of a protocol for quantifying the virulence of S. enterica isolates by a whole genome sequencing approach and use the protocol to generate data for food safety risk assessment.
<OL> <LI>
Apply whole genome sequencing approach to food safety hazards such as S. enterica serovars, by sequencing (i) well-characterized isolates of serovar Typhimurium and (ii) isolates of serovar Enteritidis incriminated in past foodborne outbreaks,
<LI> Apply commercially available DNA analysis software to assemble the genome sequence using an annotated reference,
<LI> Analyze the assembled genome sequence data for the identification, evaluation and comparison of genes coding for virulence markers for the purpose of assessing the risk posed by S. enterica contaminants in food.
Expected Benefits:
Ability to quantify the virulence of food-borne pathogens in an accurate and timely manner leading to effective mitigation approaches and better allocation of limited food safety resources.
<P> For more information, please visit the <a href="http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/research/foodsafety/index.html" target="_blank">Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) Food Safety Research Program</a>.