Molecular characterization of multidrug-resistant eskapee bacteria from clinical samples, animals, and the environment in Ethiopia: A one health approach
PhD candidate: Ashenafi Alemu
Institution: Addis Ababa University and Armauer Hansen Research Institute
Supervisors: Dr. Aklilu Feleke, Prof. Tadesse Eguale, Dr. Andargachew Mulu, Dr. Adane Mihret
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) ESKAPEE pathogens. MDR-ESKAPEE Bacteria: namely Enterococcus faecium, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter species, and Escherichia coli, pose a significant global threat to public health. However, in Ethiopia, there is limited knowledge about the prevalence and impact of these pathogens in humans, animals, and environmental samples. To address this knowledge gap, it is important to conduct comprehensive pathogen genomic surveillance using a One Health approach. Such an approach can provide insights into developing effective intervention strategies.
Objective: To determine the occurrence and molecular characteristics of multidrug-resistant ESKAPEE bacteria isolated from clinical, animal, and environmental sources.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design will be employed from Sep 2024 to September 2026 to collect samples from clinical settings, animals, and the environment. Pathogen isolation will be carried out using standard microbiological methods for bacterial identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and for detecting resistant genes, followed by whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Statistical analysis will involve descriptive statistics to calculate prevalence rates, inferential statistics for comparative studies, and regression models to identify factors associated with AMR prevalence.
Expected outcome: The study will provide a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence, resistance profiles, and phylogenetic relationships of MDR ESKAPEE bacteria from different backgrounds in Ethiopia. This information will then inform evidence-based intervention strategies for combating antimicrobial-resistant ESKAPEE bacteria.
Result dissemination plan: The findings of this study will be presented to AAU in the form of a PhD dissertation. In addition, the data will be presented at appropriate national and international scientific conferences. Furthermore, manuscripts will be published in peer-reviewed journals.