Our lab studies the molecular epidemiology of multi-drug resistant enteric bacteria, especially extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing, carbapenem- and colistin-resistant strains. We use both phenotypic and genotypic tools to identify the sources and transmission pathways of antibiotic resistant bacteria from people, animals and environmental settings. The areas that we are mainly focused on are:
Integrated surveillance of antimicrobial resistance including people, food-producing animals and environment settings.
Major drivers and risk factors for gut colonization with ESBL-producing E. coli (ESBL-EC) in healthy people.
Contribution of ESBL-EC colonization to ESBL-EC etiology of infection.
Foodborne sources of MDR urinary tract infection.
Co-selection of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria with resistance to heavy metals and other antimicrobial compounds.
Environmental intervention to antimicrobial resistance including improving food safety and WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene).
