Duke RESISTOME (RESistance In Stem cell Transplant microbiome)

The acquisition and persistence of antibiotic resistance genes in a high-risk pediatric population

DESCRIPTION
Aim 1: To determine the cumulative prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes in high-risk patients with frequent and prolonged contact with the healthcare system. We will evaluate clinical factors that predict acquisition of resistance genes and identify specific commensal bacteria and microbial community types that reduce the risk of acquisition of antibiotic resistance genes.
Aim 2: To evaluate the duration of retention of bacterial antibiotic resistance genes in a high-risk patient population. We will examine the persistence of antibiotic resistance genes in the gut microbiota of pediatric HSCT recipients after removal of the following selective pressures: 1) antibacterial therapy, 2) lack of enteral feeding, and 3) hospitalization.