Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Food Animals

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of antimicrobials (e.g. antibiotics, antifungals and antiprotozoals) and antibiotic-resistant pathogens (such as bacteria, fungus, protozoa, etc.) can be transmitted from food-producing animals to humans through direct contact with the animals and through the consumption of animal products, particularly when these products are handled or cooked improperly. AMR poses significant threats to animal health, food safety, and public health. As a Contract Research Organization (CRO) specializing in AMR research, BioVenic is dedicated to addressing challenges in food animal AMR through comprehensive and innovative research services. Our services are tailored for global companies and researchers to understand AMR mechanisms and develop novel antibiotics for animals.

Veterinary Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Services

Combatting veterinary bacterial antimicrobial resistance requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses genotypic and phenotypic characterization, susceptibility testing, PK/PD testing, and other strategic analysis. BioVenic offers a wide range of antimicrobial resistance testing and analysis services aimed at tackling veterinary bacterial AMR.

Veterinary AMR Identification and Characterization

Our advanced molecular and microbiological techniques allow us to accurately identify and characterize pathogens affecting food animals. Using methods such as phenotypic analysis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS), and mass spectrometry, we can determine the species, strain, and genetic makeup and variation of the pathogens. Custom bioinformatic analysis is crucial for tracking the spread of resistant strains, understanding their epidemiology, and developing targeted interventions.

• Veterinary AMR Genotypic Characterization
• Veterinary AMR Gene Discovery
• Veterinary Pathogen Antimicrobial Resistance Phenotypic Characterization

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing

Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is essential for determining the effectiveness of antibiotics against specific pathogens. Our AST services employ standardized methodologies, such as broth microdilution, agar dilution, and disk diffusion, to evaluate the susceptibility of pathogens to various antimicrobial agents. Besides, we also offer molecular-based methods and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) service to assess the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Our comprehensive AST services are vital for monitoring resistance patterns and guiding antimicrobial research in food animal production.

AMR PK/PD Services

Our PK/PD services involve the meticulous analysis of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, as well as the relationship between drug concentration and microbial killing. By integrating in vitro, in vivo, ex vivo PK/PD modeling and data, we optimize dosing regimens to achieve maximum therapeutic efficacy while minimizing the risk of resistance development in animals. Our services support the rational use of antimicrobials in food animals, enhancing treatment outcomes and reducing the emergence of resistance and anti-microbial drug residues in food animals.

AMR Mechanism Studies

Our mechanism study services focus on elucidating the genetic, biochemical, and physiological pathways that veterinary pathogens use to resist antimicrobial agents. Through techniques such as gene sequencing, mutational analysis, gene expression and metabolism, and functional assays, we identify resistance genes, study their expression, and understand how they contribute to resistance. These insights are critical for developing novel antimicrobial agents and for designing strategies to circumvent resistance mechanisms. By uncovering the underlying mechanisms of resistance, we can provide the scientific foundation necessary for the development of innovative solutions to manage and mitigate AMR in food animals.

Common Pathogen AMR in Food Animals
Species	Pathogen	Resistance
Swine	Escherichia coli	Ceftiofur, Enrofloxacin, Florfenicol, Gentamicin, Neomycin, Sulfonamides, Tetracyclines
	Pasteurellaceae	Tetracyclines, Enrofloxacin, Tiamulin
	Salmonella	Tetracyclines , Aminoglycosides, Sulfonamides, Beta Lactams, Macrolides, Phenicols, Pleuromutilins, Cephalosporins, Fluoroquinolones
	Streptococcus suis	Beta lactams, Ceftiofur, Enrofloxacin
Cattel	Mannheimia haemolytica and Histophilus somni	Multidrug Resistance, Aminocyclitols, Fluoroquinolones, Phenicols, Penicillins, Tetracyclines, Macrolides
	Moraxella spp.	Tetracyclines, Macrolides
Poultry	Escherichia coli	Tetracyclines, Sulfonamides, Streptomycin
	Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale (ORT)	Tetracyclines, Sulfonamides, Penicillin
	Pasteurella multocida	Tetracyclines, Sulfonamides, Penicillin
Aquatic Species	Aeromonas spp.	Oxytetracycline, Florfenicol, Ormetoprim/sulfadimethoxine
	Edwardsiella spp.	Oxytetracycline, Florfenicol, Ormetoprim/sulfadimethoxine
	Flavobacterium psychrophilum	Multidrug Resistance, Oxytetracycline, Florfenicol, Ormetoprim/sulfadimethoxine
	Vibrio parahaemolyticus	Beta-lactams, Tetracycline, Cephalosporins, Chloramphenicol, Aminoglycosides, Fluoroquinolones, Sulfonamides, Macrolides, Rifampin, Trimethoprim, Fosfomycin, Bicozamycin
	Vibrio vulnificus	Apramycin, Nalidixic acid, Azithromycin, Chloramphenicol, Ampicillin, Doxycycline, Tetracycline

Antimicrobial resistance in food animals is a growing concern for both animal health and human health. BioVenic offer a comprehensive suite of services that address various aspects of veterinary AMR. From pathogen identification and characterization to antimicrobial susceptibility testing, PK/PD services, and mechanism studies, our expertise and advanced technologies enable us to provide valuable insights and support to our clients. Please contact us to learn more about our veterinary antimicrobial resistance services in food animals.