NOAA Library Seminars: Understanding environmental Vibrio parahamolyticus genetics in different coastal environments

Speakers: David Silva, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, PhD Candidate

Abstract: Vibrio parahaemolyticus adapts to changing U.S. coastal temperatures, posing a growing threat to fisheries as it is the leading cause of seafood-related gastroenteritis. Our preliminary findings from the Pacific Northwest suggest some pathogenic strains lack genetic traits for cold shock tolerance, which is beneficial since cold treatment is important in controlling Vibrio growth kinetics. Meanwhile, isolates from cold freshwater areas like the Chesapeake Bay watershed revealed that certain serotypes can survive in water temperatures as low as 8.5–9.3 °C. This work also demonstrates collaborative efforts from working with and using FDA laboratory protocols during strain isolations, along with whole genome sequencing, to identify novel V. parahaemolyticus sequence types. This work also supports national efforts to monitor pathogens in estuaries with functional models to help protect coastal ecosystems, seafood safety, and recreational waters.