Systems-Level Identification of Resistance-Associated Metabolites in Foodborne Pathogens

Foodborne pathogens remain a pressing global health concern and account for serious infections and even deaths. Among the leading bacterial pathogens contributing to these infections are Campylobacter jejuni, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella enterica, all of which are associated with serious health complications and pose significant challenges for public health systems and food safety. The improper uses of antimicrobials in both human and veterinary settings compound this issue, as the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance is exacerbated by these practices. In the current study, the stress responses in foodborne pathogens C. jejuni subsp. jejuni 81-176, L. monocytogenes EGD-e (serotype 1/2a), and S. enterica serovar Typhimurium were investigated through reporter metabolite analysis. By integrating systems-level insights, it is aimed to discover novel targets and pathways involved in survival and resistance under several stress conditions. The findings will provide a basis for more effective treatment strategies to combat foodborne infections and mitigate the spread of antimicrobial resistance.