Interfering with the pathogenesis pathway of Cronobacter spp using novel antimicrobials
Abstract
Cronobacter spp. (previously Enterobacter sakazakii) are bacteria described as emerging
opportunistic food-borne pathogens. Neonates and infants are most at risk from infection and
powdered infant formula (PIF) has been implicated as the source of infection in the majority of
outbreaks. The sources of contamination, ecology and virulence characteristics of this genus are, as
yet, poorly understood. There is a need to identify traits related to its pathogenesis and persistence
in suspected food sources, especially PIF. An impressive 15% of the world’s PIF is made in Ireland
and an outbreak of Cronobacter would have serious detrimental consequences to the economy. This
study aims to develop a novel food grade antimicrobial effective in interfering with the
pathogenesis of Cronobacter spp. The development of such an agent, and its possible inclusion in
PIF is a conceptually encouraging solution to the potentially devastating effects of a Cronobacter
outbreak in Ireland.