Mapping genetic determinants in lettuce that reduce Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli colonization of leaves

Medium-term Goals. In the medium-term, this study will create a framework to incorporate breeding as a strategy to reduce the risk associated with the colonization of edible leaves with bacterial pathogens of humans. There is mounting evidence that plants perceive these bacteria, thereby activating immune responses that could prevent the persistence of pathogens.Specific Aim 1. Map and functionally characterize genetic loci determining colonization of lettuce leaves by O157:H7 and STm 14028s. Specific Aim 2. Determine the contribution of lettuce genotypic variation to bacterial colonization of leaves.