PREVENTION OF LOSSES FROM COLIBACILLOSIS AND O157:H7 AND OTHER SHIGA TOXIN-PRODUCING E. COLI (STEC) IN CATTLE AND SWINE

1) Describe and characterize sites, mechanisms, and Stx-mediated effects of STEC colonization of cattle intestines; 2) Analyze in vivo gene expression of STEC O157:H7 using genomic techniques to identify genes involved in expression and regulation of adherence, colonization, and shedding; 3) Develop and test the efficacy of intervention strategies for reducing colonization and shedding of STEC O157:H7; and 4) Identify mechanisms of E. coli adherence involved in postweaning colibacillosis in pigs.