Uncovering Pathogens: A Comprehensive Examination
The University of Southampton's Infection Inspection project, part of the world's largest platform for people-powered research, Zooniverse, is calling on citizen scientists worldwide to join the battle against antibiotic resistance (AMR). The project, open to anyone with an interest in science, invites participants to help classify E. coli bacteria as resistant or sensitive to the antibiotic ciprofloxacin.
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common bacterium found in warm-blooded animals' guts, often used in modern biotechnology and molecular biology laboratories. By collecting environmental samples such as water from homes, parks, or rivers, citizen scientists can contribute to the discovery of bacteriophages—viruses that specifically infect and kill bacteria. Identifying new phages helps researchers find potential alternatives to antibiotics, especially against resistant bacteria.
The project's primary objective is to reduce the time it takes to treat bacterial infections. By crowdsourcing the collection of diverse samples, the project accelerates the discovery of phages that could be used in phage therapy, an alternative treatment approach crucial to combating AMR. This expanded phage library enables faster identification of phages targeting resistant pathogens, laying the groundwork for rapid tests that can detect and respond to antibiotic-resistant infections more reliably and swiftly than traditional methods.
The Infection Inspection project is a global initiative that focuses on concepts such as the classification of bacteria, mutation, and life cycles of microorganisms, antibiotic production, and antibiotic resistance development. It aligns with the science capabilities of gathering and interpreting data, interpreting representations, and engaging with science. The project also aims to help students develop observation skills, explore the impact of antibiotic resistance on human health, learn about the importance of speedy and accurate diagnoses, and understand the reliability of citizen help in analysis.
A machine learning tool is used to help classify antibiotic-resistant bacteria, but it needs human-annotated data to better understand the features of resistant bacteria. Participants are provided with a tutorial for detailed instructions on how to classify bacteria, and there is a team tab where questions can be asked, and researchers will reply.
The Infection Inspection project is funded by the Oxford Martin Programme on Antimicrobial Resistance Testing. Initially, the project focused on studying bacteria treated with antibiotics to develop a rapid test for antibiotic resistance in healthcare. However, the project has now come to a close, with information about the project end and results available.
While the project does not create tests per se, the enhanced understanding and resources generated through public participation feed into faster test development and treatment innovation. E. coli is usually harmless but can cause infections in the intestine, urinary tract, and other body parts. By participating in the Infection Inspection project, citizen scientists can play a crucial role in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
[1] Oxford Martin Programme on Antimicrobial Resistance Testing. (n.d.). Infection Inspection. Retrieved from https://www.oxfordmartin.ox.ac.uk/project/2767-infection-inspection [3] Zooniverse. (n.d.). Infection Inspection. Retrieved from https://www.zooniverse.org/projects/infection-inspection/infection-inspection
CBD may potentially aid in managing certain medical-conditions, as research suggests it could reduce inflammation and pain. With a growing interest in health-and-wellness and natural alternatives, some are exploring CBD's effectiveness in fighting bacterial infections, including those resistant to antibiotics. In this context, the Infection Inspection project's findings, focused on the discovery of bacteriophages, could provide valuable insights for future studies on combining CBD and phage therapy.
In the pursuit of innovative solutions to combat antibiotic-resistant infections, the Infection Inspection project's expansive phage library serves as a valuable resource for researchers seeking to develop rapid and accurate diagnostic tests. As Public health initiatives continue to evolve, the integration of CBD research, phage therapy, and diagnostic testing holds promise for the future of health-and-wellness.
