Microbiology

Enterococci survival and die-off in treated wastewater

Wastewater treatment plants release millions of human fecal bacteria into recipients every day. Enterococci are known to survive for long periods in nature and they are usually resistant to several antibiotics. The purpose of my research is to study survival rates of enterococci in microcosm during a prolonged time period with and without antibiotics. 

Host-pathogen interactions in a changing climate 

In the wake of climate change, marine shellfish get immuno-suppressed by increasing acidification and as well by eutrophication leading to deoxygenation and elevated levels of bottom-released manganese. Our studies have also shown that climate change increases emission of pathogenic enteric bacteria from land and stimulates growth of allochthonous Vibrio species. Such an altered relation between host and pathogens may negatively affect shellfish populations and will increase the risk for transmission of infectious diseases to consumers. 

Researchers: Bodil Hernroth, Betty Collin
Contacts: bodil.hernroth@hkr.se, betty.collin@hkr.se

Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) resistant enterobacteria in aquatic systems 

Infections due to ESBL resistant Gram-negative bacteria have during the last decades become a severe problem. A future reality is that bacterial strains are resistant to all antibiotics, which will have huge impact on infection control in the society. We have identified bacterial strains with different ESBL pheno- and genotypes isolated from water samples. Furthermore, we try to correlate the findings to different biological and chemical environmental parameters, as well as to clinical findings. 

Researchers: Ann-Sofi Rehnstam-Holm, Carolina Axelsson
Contacts: ann-sofi.rehnstam-holm@hkr.se,  carolina.axelsson@hkr.se  

Vibrios in the aquatic environment 

Pathogenic Vibrio species, especially V. cholerae (non cholera strains), V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus have during the last decade become more common in coastal areas of Sweden, causing bathing fever. The main focus in this project is to follow the occurrence of Vibrio spp. in the coastal area of Scania and contribute to the national knowledge base of vibrio ecology. 

Researchers: Ann-Sofi Rehnstam-Holm
Contact: ann-sofi.rehnstam-holm@hkr.se