SALAMI OLAWALE WASIU

Microbiology

At the Microbiology department office

Appointment on Visitation important

Topic: Prevalence And Genomic Characterization Of Multiple-antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus Spp. From Various Sources In Lagos, Nigeria,

Description: The prevalence and genomic characterization of multiple-antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus spp. in Lagos, Nigeria, represent a significant public health challenge. Enterococcus spp. are Gram-positive bacteria that are part of the normal flora of the human gastrointestinal tract but have emerged as important opportunistic pathogens, particularly in healthcare settings. They are associated with various infections, including urinary tract infections, bacteremia, and endocarditis, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Recent studies have highlighted the alarming prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus spp. in Nigeria. The presence of these bacteria in food sources raises concerns about food safety and the potential for transmission of antibiotic resistance to humans. Antibiotic resistance among Enterococcus spp. is particularly concerning, as these bacteria have developed resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics, including vancomycin, which is often used as a last resort for treating serious infections. Reports indicate that a significant proportion of Enterococcus isolates from various sources in Lagos exhibit resistance to vancomycin and other critical antibiotics. This resistance is often attributed to the acquisition of resistance genes through horizontal gene transfer, which complicates treatment options and poses a risk for public health.Genomic characterization of these resistant strains is essential for understanding the mechanisms of resistance and the epidemiology of Enterococcus spp. Advanced techniques such as whole-genome sequencing WGS allow for detailed analysis of the genetic elements associated with antibiotic resistance, including the identification of specific resistance genes and their distribution among different strains. In conclusion, the prevalence and genomic characterization of multiple-antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus spp. in Lagos, Nigeria, is a critical area of concern that necessitates ongoing research and public health interventions to mitigate the impact of antibiotic resistance.

#	Certificate	School	Year
1.	M.Sc (Microbiology)	Lagos State University	2024

Prevalence and genomic characterization of multiple-antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus spp. from different sources

Enterococci are Gram-positive, facultative anaerobic bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals, as well as in diverse environmental settings. Key species, particularly E. faecalis and E. faecium, can be transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or bodily fluids, as well as via contaminated surfaces and products, poor hygiene practices, and agricultural runoff or sewage. This adaptability enables them to survive on various surfaces, increasing the likelihood of indirect transmission. Enterococcus spp. produce a variety of virulence factors, including microbial surface components that help with colonization and infection. Both E. faecalis and E. faecium are prominent pathogens responsible for various diseases, including mastitis, endocarditis, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, and sepsis. Diagnosis of Enterococcus infections typically involves culture tests, Gram staining, biochemical methods, antibiotic susceptibility testing, PCR, serological methods, and imaging. Treatment relies on six major classes of antimicrobial agents, including penicillins and cephalosporins. However, many Enterococcus species exhibit intrinsic resistance to several antibiotics and low-level resistance to -lactams and aminoglycosides. The emergence of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus VRE has raised concerns, prompting the WHO to alert public health officials. Multidrug-resistant strains of Enterococcus can acquire and share resistance genes via mobile genetic elements. This research aims to investigate the prevalence and genomic characteristics of multidrug-resistant Enterococcus spp. from various sources.. The study will utilize both cultural and molecular methodologies, including antimicrobial susceptibility testing for specific resistance gene markers, whole genome sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis to explore genetic diversity and clonal relationships. Statistical software such as SPSS and R will be used to analyze data and assess significant relationships. The anticipated outcomes will provide insights into virulence factors, resistance markers, and explore new alternative therapies while determining the prevalence of Enterococcus spp. across different sources.

SALAMI WASIU is a Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Microbiology

SALAMI has a M.Sc in Microbiology from Lagos State University