PhD Defence: Harnessing the nasal microbiome to reduce livestock-associated Staphylococcus aureus in pigs

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Summary of dissertation

Microorganisms such as bacteria are found everywhere on earth, including in and on humans and livestock. Some of these niches harbor hundreds of bacterial species that together form a microbiome. The microbiome plays a crucial role in processes such as food digestion and health. An example of a bacterium living on humans and animals is Staphylococcus aureus. About one-third of people carry S. aureus for example, on their nasal mucosa. Sometimes S. aureus can cause disease; infections can range from mild, such as skin inflammations, to life-threatening in people with a weakened immune system. Severe infections are treated with antibiotics, but many S. aureus strains are antibiotic-resistant.

In pig farming, methicillin resistant S. aureus strains are widespread. This poses a risk to public health. This research therefore focused on excluding S. aureus from the nasal microbiome of piglets. First, we mapped the microbiome and identified bacteria that coexist with and compete against S. aureus. Then, we reintroduced these competing bacteria to other young piglets to displace S. aureus. Although this approach proved ineffective, the research contributes to the understanding of bacteria in our livestock and provides insights for future research.

Start date and time
End date and time
Location
Academiegebouw, Domplein 29 & online via livestream
PhD candidate
A. Vlasblom
Dissertation
Harnessing the nasal microbiome to reduce livestock-associated Staphylococcus aureus in pigs
PhD supervisor(s)
prof. dr. J.A. Wagenaar
dr. A.L. Zomer
Co-supervisor(s)
dr. B. Duim