Tracking foodborne pathogens using whole genome sequencing
Official title: Whole Genome Sequencing of foodborne pathogens
Funded at Minnesota State Dept of Health · NIH-10898668 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to make it easier for labs to track germs that can make people sick from food by building a big database of their genetic information, helping them quickly find and respond to outbreaks and keep our food safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Minnesota State Dept of Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (St. Paul, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $133,679 |
| NIH project number | 5U19FD007106-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898668 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals who have been affected by foodborne illnesses or those involved in food safety and public health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by foodborne illnesses or do not engage with food safety measures may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the GenomeTrakr network, which integrates state and federal laboratories to track foodborne pathogens through whole genome sequencing. By creating a global database of the genetic makeup of foodborne disease-causing organisms, the project aims to improve outbreak response and monitoring of food safety. Local laboratories will sequence food, environmental, or animal isolates to identify potential sources of contamination and outbreaks. This collaborative effort will strengthen the rapid surveillance system for foodborne pathogens.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to quicker identification and response to foodborne outbreaks, ultimately improving public health safety.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using genomic sequencing for tracking foodborne pathogens, indicating that this approach is both effective and valuable.
Where this research is happening
-
Minnesota State Dept of Health
St. Paul, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haan, Jisun — Minnesota State Dept of Health
- Study coordinator: Haan, Jisun
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.