Core Research 2

Scope

Comprehension of the ecology of marine microorganism in the Ariake Sea -discovery of useful microbe / bioactive substance, and countermeasure against Vibrio vulnificus infection

Summary

Research division of Microbial Technology

Research division of Marine & Food -Borne Infection

Perform the countermeasure against Vibrio vulnificus infection. This infection can result in necrotizing fasciitis and sepsis and is associated with a high mortality rate. Most patients infected with this microbe have liver dysfunction as an underlying disease. We studied the clinical characteristics and the epidemiology of Vibrio vulnificus infection in Japan. From 1980 to 2001, 135 patients reported on the literature from Japanese Institutes. 95 out of 135 patients (71%) died in spite of intensive care including surgical treatment. Seventy-two patients (53%) were reported from Kyushu Island, mainly prefectures around the Ariake Sea.

Main Theme

Research division of Microbial Technology

Research division of Marine & Food -Borne Infection

Strategy overview (2005～)

Study of culture and genetic classification method for Vibrio vulnificus
Development of rapid diagnostic methods for Vibrio vulnificus
Informatory for people and health care worker
Establish the screening test for high risk people (liver dysfunction or immuno-suppression)
5 Study of Vibrio vulnificus virulence
Development of Vaccine for high risk people