Little is known about E. coli 0157:H7, the virulent bacteria that causes severe food-borne illnesses, but University of Nebraska scientists are teaming up to find some answers.

The university has intensified its efforts with the help of LB1206, passed by the state Legislature last year to provide NU $250,000 annually for five years for basic research on 0157:H7.

NU formed multidisciplinary, statewide research teams that initiated eight new projects focusing on pre-harvest research - studying E. coli at the farm, ranch and feedlot level, before animals reach the packing plant.

"We feel that developing solutions to the E. coli problem at the pre-harvest level is the most effective strategy for Nebraska," said Robert Hutkins, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources food microbiologist who coordinates the intensified multidisciplinary effort.

The new research is highly collaborative, Hutkins said. Researchers from UNL's School of Biological Sciences, the Beadle Center, NU Medical Center and several IANR departments are involved in basic and applied research.

"These projects draw on the expertise of many scientists, from microbiologists to ruminant nutritionists," Hutkins said. Projects range from feedlot studies of management techniques to basic research deciphering the genetics, physiology and biochemistry of E. coli 0157:H7 and how it survives in cattle.

Several research groups have built on LB1206 funding, obtaining additional grants from the Nebraska Beef Council and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

- Monica Manton Norby

Veterinary Science Research Technician Doreen Bailey tests water samples for IANR E. coli research.

E. coli 0157:H7 bacteria adhering to rectal epithelial cells of a neonatal calf.