New software finds antibiotic-resistant bacteria that infect humans and animals

In a new study, a team of experts examined a large commercial poultry farm in China and collected 154

sample from animals, carcasses, workers, their petsfarms and the environment. From the samples they isolated specific bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli). They can live completely harmlessly in the human intestine, but can also be pathogenic. And if their genome carries genes for resistance to certain drugs, this can lead to the development of serious illnesses, including severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting.

The researchers used a computational approachwhich combines machine learning, whole genome sequencing, gene sharing networks and mobile genetic elements to characterize the different types of pathogens found on a farm. They found that antimicrobial genes (genes that confer resistance to antibiotics) are present in both pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria.

A new approach using machine learningallowed experts to uncover the entire network of genes associated with antimicrobial resistance common to animals, farm workers and the environment. Notably, this network included genes known to cause antibiotic resistance, as well as yet unknown genes associated with drug resistance.

Built environments such as areasintensive livestock production are considered ideal breeding grounds for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes. Their study is of great importance for the effective treatment of certain diseases and infections.

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