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<OL> <LI> Identify site(s) and mechanism(s) of O157:H7 colonization in cattle and identify virulence attributes of O157:H7 and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC); <LI> Develop methods to reduce shedding of E. coli O157:H7 from cattle; <LI> Develop rapid methods for direct detection of fecal contamination and to identify and quantify E. coli O157:H7 and other STEC in tissues and fluids from cattle; <LI> Develop methods to diagnose and control colibacillosis in swine.
Approach: Livestock will be experimentally infected with E. coli to elucidate the pathogenesis and to ultimately develop and test methods of reducing E. coli colonization. Bacteriology, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular biology will be used to assess E. coli colonization in experimentally infected animals. Vaccines and mutant strains will be created by molecular biologic techniques. Monoclonal antibodies, DNA for humans and/or animals. Biochemistry and molecular biology will be used to purify intestinal receptors and identify their encoding genes. Strains of human pathogens will be used for comparative purposes only. NADC, Ames, IA, PHFSEDR Lab; Bldg. 2, A-1/A-3: BL-2; Approved 12/1/99; Bldg. 2; A-1/A-3, Barns 3,108,109,126,134: BL-2; Approved 12/1/99;Bldg. 2; A-1, Barns 126,149: BL-2; Exempted 12/1/99