Virulence of Listeria monocytogenes : Influence of genetic sub-type, persistence capacity and environmental factors on risk from the human foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes

The purpose of this project is to determine if the particular molecular sub-types of Listeria monocytogenes that persists in food processing are more or less virulent that other sub-types. We work with their invasion and spread in mammalian cell lines. Also, the sequence and function of virulence genes is determined. In collaboration with USDA we are sequencing the genomes of two strains of persistent L. monocytogenes.