Kaan Kocer

Research interests

My research focuses on the antimicrobial resistance mechanisms in Gram-negative bacteria, with a particular focus on the Enterobacterales family. These bacteria, among the most common pathogens causing hospital-acquired infections, have witnessed an alarming surge in antimicrobial resistance over recent years. Due to severely limited therapeutic options, infections caused by these multidrug-resistant bacteria are associated with poor clinical outcomes. My research uses modern technologies to unravel the complexities of antimicrobial resistance, notably next-generation sequencing (NGS), which has emerged as a powerful tool, providing unprecedented insights into the molecular intricacies of resistance mechanisms within Gram-negative bacteria.<o:p></o:p>

 

Furthermore, as part of the Physician Scientist program at University Hospital Heidelberg, I am currently leading a clinical study with a distinct focus on the potential role of intestinal resistome in antimicrobial resistance development. The aim is to investigate the relationship between the gut microbiome and the risk of developing bacteriuria or urinary tract infection (UTI) with multidrug-resistant pathogens using NGS. The ultimate goal is to translate these insights into rational strategies for reducing unnecessary antibiotic use and mitigating the emergence of resistance.