Clinical Genomics for Enhanced Infectious Disease Diagnosis

This research will use advanced DNA sequencing techniques to enhance the way we diagnose and treat infectious diseases. In many serious infections, the cause cannot be identified, and the patient must be treated with broad-spectrum antimicrobials, which can either kill the pathogen and harm the microbiome, or even fail and promote resistance. We will use a novel technique, metagenomic sequencing, to analyze patient samples and identify the exact cause of the infection, including those caused by rare and unknown microorganisms. DNA sequencing will also be used to study these microorganisms in real time and determine the genetic mechanisms by which they cause disease and develop resistance to antimicrobial drugs. Armed with the genetic information of these microorganisms, we will also be able to create new, rapid tests to quickly identify them in patient samples. This research will improve patient care by enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis of infectious diseases, leading to better treatment outcomes and potentially reducing the spread of antimicrobial resistance.