In the 1940s, the Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science acquired a lyophilizer, a device that freeze-dries samples. The microbiology lab at the time was active in testing milk samples for dairy farms in the region, leading to the lyophilization of hundreds of samples. These samples, containing Streptococcus bacteria, have been stored ever since. Director Dr. Guillermo Risatti and his colleagues were intrigued by the microbial history within these samples and set out to explore their origins and potential research opportunities.
Despite losing the data on the samples over the years, the team deduced that most samples likely originated from Connecticut or nearby regions. Through standard techniques, they aimed to analyze the visual characteristics and genotype of the samples to learn more about the Streptococcus species present and any potential virulence factors. These analyses were crucial in identifying seven different Streptococcus species, including two subspecies of S. dysgalactiae, and revealing that some samples were resistant to the antibiotic tetracycline, showcasing natural antibiotic resistance before the antibiotic era.
The discovery of antibiotic resistance in these historical samples opens up possibilities for further research in this area, which has been a significant field of study for many years. Dr. Risatti hopes to collaborate with agencies like the CDC and the Department of Public Health to advance antibiotic resistance research. Additionally, he highlighted the contributions of undergraduate students Jillian Baron and Patricia Arceta in developing the workflow for analyzing the samples, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for young researchers to gain experience and contribute to scientific findings.
Looking ahead, Dr. Risatti is optimistic about future collaborations and the potential impact of the research at the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL) on human health. By uncovering the microbial history within these historical samples and understanding their antibiotic resistance profiles, the team hopes to contribute valuable information to the scientific community. With the support of large agencies and enthusiastic students, the CVMDL aims to continue its research efforts and foster partnerships that could lead to further advancements in the field of antibiotic resistance and public health.
