MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF SALMONELLA VIRULENCE, ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE, AND HOST RESPONSE

1)Identify molecular mechanisms in Salmonella that impact virulence and antimicrobial resistance in the gastrointestinal environment of cattle and swine. 2)Characterize the genetic pathways in swine that respond to Salmonella infection, their relationship to carrier status, and the ability to predict and control Salmonella prevalence and ultimately food safety. 3)Investigate interactions between Salmonella and host microbiota that influence Salmonella colonization and persistence, alter the commensal composition in the host, and provide novel intervention strategies to decrease Salmonella in swine populations.