Development of Novel Subunit Vaccines Against Multidrug-Resistant ExPEC
Abstract
Topic Areas: Vaccine Development for Infectious Disease Antimicrobial Resistance Extraintestinal Pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) are a group of bacteria that can cause a wide spectrum of diseases. They are most infamous as being the leading causes of urinary tract and bloodstream infections. Urinary tract infections (or UTIs) affect primarily women and are among the most common of infections on this planet. The entry of ExPEC strains into the bloodstream can be especially serious problem, as it can lead to rapid death by causing out-of-control immune responses that damage tissues and vital organs. This process, known as sepsis, is a leading cause of death for both civilians and military personnel, with Soldiers injured in combat being especially susceptible. Adding to the problem is the recent emergence and spread of ExPEC strains that cannot be treated with standard antibiotics. These multidrug-resistant strains pose a huge and growing threat. To combat these pathogens, we propose to identify ExPEC-associated factors that can be used to generate effective anti-ExPEC vaccines. If successful, this work will reduce the need to use antibiotics and will consequently help slow the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. In addition, this work will help identify new targets for anti-ExPEC pharmaceuticals, aiding the fight to keep ahead of antibiotic-resistant strains.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 07, 2017
- Source ID
- W81XWH1710145
Entities
People
- Matthew Mulvey
Organizations
- United States Army
- University of Utah