Funding

Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERC), Eco-Evo-Patho of microbes in nature ($8 000 000)

This program aims to explore the origin, spread and evolution of antimicrobial resistance genes in natural populations of bacteria. We will use pathogenic oyster bacteria, Vibrios, as a model system. We benefit from a unique collection of 1200 bacteriophages and 600 bacterial hosts, isolated and sequenced during previous projects, to develop an approach integrating field observation and laboratory genetics. We will explore the diversity and evolution of resistance mechanisms to antibiotics and heavy metals. We will seek to understand genome size heterogeneity in natural Vibrio populations. Finally, we will identify the genetic, mechanistic and evolutionary bases of phage-vibrio interactions in nature.

The Philanthropic Project, offered a funding of CAD$1 500 000.

This project supports an ambitious endeavor leveraging advanced technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) methods from Université de Montréal (UdeM) in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine at UdeM and Institut Pasteur. This international initiative pioneers cutting-edge solutions to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) challenges by training the next generation of scientists, developing new antibiotics, and exploring alternative approaches like bacteriophage therapy. The strategy involves two main thrusts to enhance success rates. Firstly, advanced screening methods rapidly analyze chemical compounds, akin to conducting a ‘bacterial autopsy,’ identifying properties capable of combating AMR bacteria. These insights inform an AI model to predict potential antibiotics swiftly, expediting crucial medication discovery beyond conventional methods. Simultaneously, the project investigates factors enhancing bacteriophage effectiveness against pathogens, crucial for deploying them as a new weapon against AMR and alleviating healthcare system burdens. Integration of these approaches aims to identify compounds augmenting bacteriophage efficacy against AMR pathogens, offering a comprehensive solution to combat AMR.

Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI) John R. Evans Leaders Fund, Eco-Evo-Patho of microbes in nature, $200 001 (total budget of $516 467)

The objective of this research program is to explore how phages control pathogenic bacteria in nature and to assess whether it is possible to use them as therapeutic tools. The proposed work is innovative because it combines microbial ecology and evolution, infectiology, phage and bacterial genetics to explore in “real time” the evolution of these microbes. To achieve this research program, the CFI will provide funding for 1) a droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) quantification system that enables highly sensitive assessment of DNA and RNA in rare environmental samples; 2) a set of equipment essential for experiments on thousands of microorganisms isolated from the environment.

Project IVADO (CAD$100 000)

Our objective is to elucidate coevolution mechanisms by examining bacterial defenses, quantifying cross-infection interactions, and analyzing phage accessory genomes. Through this approach, we aim to uncover a wide range of anti-defense systems employed by phages. With funding from IVADO, we will synthesize over 200 putative anti-defense systems and evaluate their functionality in both phage-dependent and independent contexts. This research endeavor will significantly contribute to our understanding of host-phage interactions and the evolution of defense mechanisms.