Context Memo (Cover letter)

To : Prof. Kimberly Freeman, COLWRIT 161 class, College Writing Program

From : Daniel M. Skarsten

Date : 12 December 2023

Subject: Presentation: Contemporary Therapies for Antibiotic Resistant

In tandem with my comprehensive literature review, I have developed a slide deck targeting

professionals in the field of infectious diseases. This presentation is designed to be showcased at

research conferences, providing fellow researchers and professionals with key applications and

takeaways derived from the insights gathered in the review. The content is curated to serve as a clear

map of the contemporary therapies landscape, offering valuable implications for application in

professional practice.

Considering the potential avenues for showcasing this presentation, I have explored relevant

professional organizations in the field. One notable option is the Infectious Diseases Society of

America (IDSA), which frequently organizes conferences and symposiums for researchers and

practitioners in the infectious diseases domain. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics and

the American Academy of Ophthalmology are also promising venues for presenting this slide deck,

given their focus on healthcare and medical advancements.

The presentation follows the same thematic organization as the literature review, delving into

key components such as host-directed therapy (HDT), anti-virulence drugs (AVDs), phage therapy,

CRISPR-Cas9 antimicrobials, vaccination, and Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs). Each section provides

practical insights and applications that professionals can integrate into their practices. By aligning the

presentation with the academic paper, I aim to offer a cohesive and insightful resource for researchers

and practitioners seeking to navigate the challenges of antibiotic resistance.

 I have taken care to incorporate engaging visuals, succinct content, and clear practical

implications in the presentation. This approach is aimed at ensuring the audience gains a

comprehensive understanding of the reviewed therapies and their potential impact on the field of

infectious diseases. I believe this slide deck serves as an excellent resource for new research and as a

valuable tool for professionals looking to stay abreast of the latest developments in combating

antibiotic resistance.

Helpful terms to know:

1. Horizontal Gene Transfer: The process where genetic material is exchanged between different

bacterial strains or species.

2. Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs): Short chains of amino acids with potent antimicrobial

properties, part of innate immunity in various organisms.

3. Plasmids, Transposons, Integrons: Genetic elements that can carry and transfer antibiotic

resistance genes within bacteria.

4. Extensively Drug-Resistant TB (XDR-TB): Tuberculosis that is resistant to multiple types of

antibiotics, making it difficult to treat.

5. Antibiotic Stewardship:Responsible and careful use of antibiotics to optimize patient

outcomes and minimize resistance development.

6. Virulence Factors: Characteristics or molecules produced by pathogens that contribute to their

ability to cause disease.