Project Number: 1935-42000-070-01
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Feb 01, 2009
End Date: Jul 01, 2013

Objective:
To develop DNA-based typing/characterization platforms for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.

Approach:
Sequencing of the Escherichia coli O antigen gene clusters and development of genetic-based typing and detection systems. This work addresses Sub-objective 1A, 24-month milestone, complete analyses of genome sequencing of STEC strains and sub-objective 1D, 12-month milestone, complete sequencing of all of the known E. coli O-antigen gene cluster serogroup sequences. This agreement will expand on our current research and will result in the development of methods to identify, detect, and characterize E. coli O157:H7 and non-O157 STEC, a critical need of regulatory agencies and the food industry.