Veterinary Microbiology SEMINAR SERIES

A plasmid gene-to-molecule approach to study microbial communities

Bacteria typically organize themselves into complex communities referred to as microbiomes. We define them using taxonomy and habitat. Unfortunately, the resolution of these descriptions is limited. Put simply, knowing who is there does not tell us what they are doing or how they are doing it. Accordingly, there is a need to develop new experimental approaches to study microbiomes that prioritize functional annotation of members and their extensive gene content. We have chosen to focus our attention on plasmid gene content. Plasmids are self-replicating extrachromosomal DNA molecules that can be exchanged between compatible individuals, contribute greatly to bacterial evolution and lifestyle, and accumulate genes that can inform us about the host’s environment. Our approach pairs phenotypic screening with next-generation sequencing in order to prioritize and functionally characterize genes and gene clusters. A pilot study using Escherichia coli isolated from wild birds in Saskatchewan was conducted to help develop a robust pipeline for plasmid isolation, propagation, and characterization.

Towards a porcine model of tuberculosis infection and transmission

Existing experimental animal models of Tuberculosis using mice, guinea pigs, rabbits do not show the complete spectrum of clinical manifestations and pathological changes as seen in human. Given the anatomical, physiological and immunological resemblance of pigs with human, we are trying to develop pigs as a model for human tuberculosis.

Friday, April 5, 2019 12:30 p.m.

Room 2115, WCVM

Nirajan Niroula M.Sc. Student Department of Veterinary Microbiology

Raíza de Almeida Mesquita M.Sc. Student Department of Veterinary Microbiology