Identification of novel genetic factors contributing to the significance of Listeria monocytogenes as a foodborne pathogen

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The provision of safe, wholesome foods is essential for the well-being of humans. In Canada, the safety of our foods was recently questioned following four major outbreaks of foodborne disease in 2008, the most notable of which resulted in the deaths of 23 Canadians who consumed deli meats contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. In the wake of these events, an independent panel of experts produced the Weatherill Report detailing 57 recommendations to improve food safety. Despite the ongoing implementation of these recommendations, issues with L. monocytogenes persist. While recalls of contaminated foods suggests the food safety system is working, it also demonstrates ineffective control at the food processor level. The objective of this research program is to identify novel mechanisms enabling L. monocytogenes to persist for long periods in food production environments, survive in food, and, ultimately, cause human disease. Research will focus on the characterisation of genes contributing to survival against food chain stresses (e.g. sanitizers, low water activity, acid, etc.). Also, mechanisms associated with cold adaptation, growth, and survival will be investigated. Knowledge gained from will provide an improved understanding of how L. monocytogenes persists in foods and food production environments, enabling the development of new and improved intervention strategies. In addition, this program will prepare participating students to address Canada's food safety issues.