Institut für Epidemiologie und Pathogendiagnostik
TropicHealth is investigating the spread of zoonotic pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through the application of organic fertilizers from livestock farming. It investigates how pathogens and resistances are transferred from livestock to the environment and back. A key aspect is the question of whether and how ecosystem resilience can interrupt this cycle and what impacts this has on the health of humans, animals, and plants, as well as on the entire ecosystem. TrophicHealth is investigating these questions in extensive field studies at various points in the circular agriculture and food chain. The results are then verified through laboratory-scale experiments. Based on these findings, hypotheses are formulated regarding the potential spread of AMR and pathogens, as well as measures to contain them. Within the framework of TrophicHealth, subproject 9 (TP9) "Pathogens in Plants" will be performed at the JKI. The most likely sources of (human) pathogenic bacteria in agricultural production systems are organic fertilizers or contaminated irrigation water. Pigs and poultry are typical hosts of Salmonella, and manure could contaminate agricultural soils when applied to fields. The ability to adapt to new environments is certainly advantageous and could be a prerequisite for successful establishment. TP9 will focus on the adaptation of S. enterica to the plant environment, as well as the persistence and virulence of Salmonella in the plant environment.
Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space
