Perinatal Transmission of Multi-drug Resistant Bacteria in Mothers and Infants at Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women's Hospital

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting a prospective surveillance study to understand the presence and transmission of multi-drug resistant Enterobacteriaceae (MDR-E), specifically extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), among healthy postpartum women and their infants. This study focuses on mothers and infants admitted to Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women's Hospital, aiming to determine how common gut colonization with these resistant bacteria is among mothers and how often these strains are passed to their newborns. The research also seeks to identify genetic features linked to transmission, which may offer future targets for reducing colonization and spread. Participants include mothers who have delivered vaginally or by scheduled C-section without labor, along with their healthy infants who do not require neonatal intensive care. The study uses whole genome sequencing and comparative genomics to analyze the bacteria strains found in mother-infant pairs, assessing their genetic relatedness and shared characteristics. This approach will help test hypotheses about the prevalence of colonization, strain similarity between mothers and infants, and the genetic factors involved in transmission. During the study, mother-infant pairs are monitored shortly after birth with sample collection to detect ESBL-E colonization. Researchers measure the prevalence of colonization and transmission at baseline and reassess persistence seven days later. Genetic analysis of the bacteria is also performed at baseline. Participants undergo clinical assessments, and data on antibiotic exposure and delivery details are collected. The study helps improve understanding of how these resistant bacteria spread in early life and may guide future strategies to protect infant health.

Perinatal Transmission of MDR Bacteria