Escherichia coli in Chicken Carcasses in Southern Brazil: Absence of Shigatoxigenic (STEC) and Isolation of Atypical Enteropathogenic (aEPEC)

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC) in frozen chicken carcasses sold at stores in southern Brazil. Typical E. coli colonies were enumerated in 246 chicken carcasses, and the presence of stx1, stx2, eae genes was investigated in their rinse liquid and in E. coli strains isolated from those carcasses. Strains of E. coli were also investigated for the presence of bfp gene. A median of 0.6 cfu.g-1(ranging from 0.1 to 242.7 cfu.g-1) of typical E. coli colonies was found in the carcasses. Shiga toxin-encoding genes (stx1 and stx2) were not detected, indicating that the chicken carcasses were negative for STEC. The intimin protein gene (eae) was detected in E.coli isolated from 4.88% of the carcasses; all tested strains were negative for the bfp gene and were classified as aEPEC. Twenty-two aEPEC strains were tested for resistance to ten antimicrobials and subjected to macrorestriction (PFGE). All the tested aEPEC strains were fully susceptible to cephalosporins, ciprofloxacin and colistin. Resistance to sulfonamide (65%), ampicillin (55%), tetracycline (50%) and gentamicin (45%) were the most frequent. The PFGE profile demonstrated a low level of similarity among the resistant strains, indicating that they were epidemiologically unrelated. The results indicate that aEPEC strains can contaminate chicken meat, and their association with strains implicated in human diarrhea needs to be further investigated.(AU)

Escherichia coli in Chicken Carcasses in Southern Brazil: Absence of Shigatoxigenic (STEC) and Isolation of Atypical Enteropathogenic (aEPEC)

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC) in frozen chicken carcasses sold at stores in southern Brazil. Typical E. coli colonies were enumerated in 246 chicken carcasses, and the presence of stx1, stx2, eae genes was investigated in their rinse liquid and in E. coli strains isolated from those carcasses. Strains of E. coli were also investigated for the presence of bfp gene. A median of 0.6 cfu.g-1(ranging from 0.1 to 242.7 cfu.g-1) of typical E. coli colonies was found in the carcasses. Shiga toxin-encoding genes (stx1 and stx2) were not detected, indicating that the chicken carcasses were negative for STEC. The intimin protein gene (eae) was detected in E.coli isolated from 4.88% of the carcasses; all tested strains were negative for the bfp gene and were classified as aEPEC. Twenty-two aEPEC strains were tested for resistance to ten antimicrobials and subjected to macrorestriction (PFGE). All the tested aEPEC strains were fully susceptible to cephalosporins, ciprofloxacin and colistin. Resistance to sulfonamide (65%), ampicillin (55%), tetracycline (50%) and gentamicin (45%) were the most frequent. The PFGE profile demonstrated a low level of similarity among the resistant strains, indicating that they were epidemiologically unrelated. The results indicate that aEPEC strains can contaminate chicken meat, and their association with strains implicated in human diarrhea needs to be further investigated.

Detection of the mcr-1 gene in Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and Shigatoxigenic E. coli (STEC) strains isolated from broilers / Detecção do gene mcr-1 em estirpes de Escherichia coli Enteropatogênicas (EPEC) e Shigatoxigênicas (STEC) isoladas de frangos de corte

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and Shigatoxigenic E. coli (STEC) strains are among the major pathotypes found in poultry and their products, which are capable of causing human enteric infections. Colistin has been claimed the drug of choice against diseases caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDRGN) in humans. The mcr-1 gene was the first plasmidial gene that has been described to be responsible for colistin resistance and has also been detected in birds and poultry products. Our study aimed to detect the mcr-1 gene in enteropathogenic strains of E. coli in order to evaluate the resistance to colistin in broilers. The material was obtained from 240 cloacal samples and 60 broiler carcasses. The strains were isolated by the conventional bacteriological method and by the virulence genes, which characterize the enteropathogenic strains and resistance, and the samples were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of the 213 isolated strains of E. coli, 57 (26.76%) were characterized as atypical EPEC and 35 (16.43%) as STEC. The mcr-1 gene was found in 3.5% (2/57) of the EPEC strains and 5.7% (2/35) of the STEC strains. In this study, it was possible to confirm that the mcr-1 resistance gene is already circulating in the broiler flocks studied and may be associated with the pathogenic strains.(AU)

Escherichia coli Enteropatogênica (EPEC) e Shigatoxigênica (STEC) estão entres os principais patotipos encontrados em aves e produtos avícolas que são capazes de causar doença entérica no homem. A colistina tem sido preconizada como droga de escolha para o tratamento de doenças causadas por bactérias Gram-negativas multirresistentes em humanos. O gene mcr-1 foi o primeiro gene plasmidial a ser descrito como responsável pela resistência a colistina e tem sido descrito em aves e produtos avícolas. Este estudo tem como objetivo a detecção do gene mcr-1 em estirpes de E. coli enteropatogênicas a fim de avaliar a resistência a colistina em frangos de corte. O material foi obtido a partir de 240 amostras cloacais e 60 carcaças de frango de corte. As estirpes foram isoladas pelo método bacteriológico convencional e os genes de virulência, que caracterizam as estirpes enteropatogênicas, e resistência foram detectados pela reação em cadeia pela polimerase (PCR). Das 213 estirpes de E. coli isoladas, 57 (26,76%) foram caracterizadas como EPEC atípica e 35 (16,43%) como STEC. O gene mcr-1 foi encontrado em 3,5% (2/57) das estirpes EPEC e 5,7% (2/35) das estirpes STEC. Neste estudo foi possível confirmar que o gene de resistência mcr-1 já está em circulação nos lotes de frango de corte estudados e pode estar associado às estirpes patogênicas.(AU)

Detection of the mcr-1 gene in Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and Shigatoxigenic E. coli (STEC) strains isolated from broilers / Detecção do gene mcr-1 em estirpes de Escherichia coli Enteropatogênicas (EPEC) e Shigatoxigênicas (STEC) isoladas de frangos de corte

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and Shigatoxigenic E. coli (STEC) strains are among the major pathotypes found in poultry and their products, which are capable of causing human enteric infections. Colistin has been claimed the drug of choice against diseases caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDRGN) in humans. The mcr-1 gene was the first plasmidial gene that has been described to be responsible for colistin resistance and has also been detected in birds and poultry products. Our study aimed to detect the mcr-1 gene in enteropathogenic strains of E. coli in order to evaluate the resistance to colistin in broilers. The material was obtained from 240 cloacal samples and 60 broiler carcasses. The strains were isolated by the conventional bacteriological method and by the virulence genes, which characterize the enteropathogenic strains and resistance, and the samples were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of the 213 isolated strains of E. coli, 57 (26.76%) were characterized as atypical EPEC and 35 (16.43%) as STEC. The mcr-1 gene was found in 3.5% (2/57) of the EPEC strains and 5.7% (2/35) of the STEC strains. In this study, it was possible to confirm that the mcr-1 resistance gene is already circulating in the broiler flocks studied and may be associated with the pathogenic strains.(AU)

Escherichia coli Enteropatogênica (EPEC) e Shigatoxigênica (STEC) estão entres os principais patotipos encontrados em aves e produtos avícolas que são capazes de causar doença entérica no homem. A colistina tem sido preconizada como droga de escolha para o tratamento de doenças causadas por bactérias Gram-negativas multirresistentes em humanos. O gene mcr-1 foi o primeiro gene plasmidial a ser descrito como responsável pela resistência a colistina e tem sido descrito em aves e produtos avícolas. Este estudo tem como objetivo a detecção do gene mcr-1 em estirpes de E. coli enteropatogênicas a fim de avaliar a resistência a colistina em frangos de corte. O material foi obtido a partir de 240 amostras cloacais e 60 carcaças de frango de corte. As estirpes foram isoladas pelo método bacteriológico convencional e os genes de virulência, que caracterizam as estirpes enteropatogênicas, e resistência foram detectados pela reação em cadeia pela polimerase (PCR). Das 213 estirpes de E. coli isoladas, 57 (26,76%) foram caracterizadas como EPEC atípica e 35 (16,43%) como STEC. O gene mcr-1 foi encontrado em 3,5% (2/57) das estirpes EPEC e 5,7% (2/35) das estirpes STEC. Neste estudo foi possível confirmar que o gene de resistência mcr-1 já está em circulação nos lotes de frango de corte estudados e pode estar associado às estirpes patogênicas.(AU)

Detection of the mcr-1 gene in Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and Shigatoxigenic E. coli (STEC) strains isolated from broilers

ABSTRACT: Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and Shigatoxigenic E. coli (STEC) strains are among the major pathotypes found in poultry and their products, which are capable of causing human enteric infections. Colistin has been claimed the drug of choice against diseases caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDRGN) in humans. The mcr-1 gene was the first plasmidial gene that has been described to be responsible for colistin resistance and has also been detected in birds and poultry products. Our study aimed to detect the mcr-1 gene in enteropathogenic strains of E. coli in order to evaluate the resistance to colistin in broilers. The material was obtained from 240 cloacal samples and 60 broiler carcasses. The strains were isolated by the conventional bacteriological method and by the virulence genes, which characterize the enteropathogenic strains and resistance, and the samples were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of the 213 isolated strains of E. coli, 57 (26.76%) were characterized as atypical EPEC and 35 (16.43%) as STEC. The mcr-1 gene was found in 3.5% (2/57) of the EPEC strains and 5.7% (2/35) of the STEC strains. In this study, it was possible to confirm that the mcr-1 resistance gene is already circulating in the broiler flocks studied and may be associated with the pathogenic strains.

RESUMO: Escherichia coli Enteropatogênica (EPEC) e Shigatoxigênica (STEC) estão entres os principais patotipos encontrados em aves e produtos avícolas que são capazes de causar doença entérica no homem. A colistina tem sido preconizada como droga de escolha para o tratamento de doenças causadas por bactérias Gram-negativas multirresistentes em humanos. O gene mcr-1 foi o primeiro gene plasmidial a ser descrito como responsável pela resistência a colistina e tem sido descrito em aves e produtos avícolas. Este estudo tem como objetivo a detecção do gene mcr-1 em estirpes de E. coli enteropatogênicas a fim de avaliar a resistência a colistina em frangos de corte. O material foi obtido a partir de 240 amostras cloacais e 60 carcaças de frango de corte. As estirpes foram isoladas pelo método bacteriológico convencional e os genes de virulência, que caracterizam as estirpes enteropatogênicas, e resistência foram detectados pela reação em cadeia pela polimerase (PCR). Das 213 estirpes de E. coli isoladas, 57 (26,76%) foram caracterizadas como EPEC atípica e 35 (16,43%) como STEC. O gene mcr-1 foi encontrado em 3,5% (2/57) das estirpes EPEC e 5,7% (2/35) das estirpes STEC. Neste estudo foi possível confirmar que o gene de resistência mcr-1 já está em circulação nos lotes de frango de corte estudados e pode estar associado às estirpes patogênicas.

Detection of Salmonella spp. and diarrheagenic Escherichia coli in fresh pork sausages / Pesquisa de Salmonella spp. e Escherichia coli diarreiogênica em linguiças suínas frescas

The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in meat products may result in foodborne diseases and economic losses to their producers. Small industries in the region of Londrina, Paraná, produce sausages that are commercialized in free fairs, small markets, bars, and restaurants in the city. Although these industries are inspected by the Municipal Inspection Service of Londrina, there are no data about the pathogenic microorganisms present in these products. The objective of this study was to investigate the presence of Salmonella spp. in sausages produced and sold in the region of Londrina, Paraná, and identify eae, bfp, stx1, stx2, hlyA, ipaH, elt, est, aggR, aap, and AA probe genes in Escherichia coli strains isolated from these samples. Forty-six samples of three types of sausages (fresh pork, Tuscan, and Calabresa) produced by four different producers (brands A, B, C, and D) were analyzed. Salmonella spp. was isolated from 13 (28.3%) and E. coli from 33 (71.3%) of the analyzed samples. Seven (53.8%) of 13 samples contaminated with Salmonella spp. were from brand A. Salmonella spp. contamination was the highest in the Tuscan sausage samples (8/17, 41.7%) when compared with the fresh pork sausage samples of all brands analyzed. E. coli was isolated from 12 of 13 samples contaminated with Salmonella spp. One sample of Calabresa sausage was contaminated with atypical enteropathogenic E. coli serotype O108:H9 that has the eae and hlyA genes. The results suggest contamination of the processing plant and/or raw meat used in the manufacture of sausages. A better inspection of the industries is required to ensure that Good Manufacturing Practices are followed by which the contamination of products by pathogenic bacteria can be prevented.(AU)

A presença de microrganismos patogênicos em produtos cárneos pode levar a doenças de origem alimentar e perdas econômicas aos seus produtores. Pequenas indústrias da região de Londrina, Paraná, produzem embutidos que são comercializados em feiras livres, pequenos mercados, bares e restaurantes da cidade. Embora essas indústrias sejam fiscalizadas pelo Serviço de Inspeção Municipal de Londrina, não existem dados sobre microrganismos patogênicos presentes nesses produtos. Os objetivos deste estudo foram pesquisar a presença de Salmonella spp. em amostras de linguiças produzidas e comercializadas na região de Londrina, Paraná, e identificar os genes de virulência eae, bfp, stx1, stx2, hlyA, ipaH, elt, est, aggR, aap e AA probe das cepas de E. coli isoladas dessas amostras. Quarenta e seis amostras de três tipos de linguiça (suína fresca, toscana e calabresa) produzidas por quatro diferentes produtores (marcas A, B, C e D) foram analisadas. Salmonella spp. foi isolada em 13 (28.3%) amostras e E. coli em 33 (71.3%) amostras. Das 13 amostras contaminadas com Salmonella spp., sete (53.8%) foram da marca A. A contaminação por Salmonella spp. foi maior nas amostras de linguiça toscana (8/17 41.7%) quando comparada com a contaminação encontrada nas amostras de linguiça suína (4/22 18.2%), independente da marca analisada. E. coli foi isolada de 12 das 13 amostras contaminadas com Salmonella spp. Uma amostra de linguiça calabresa estava contaminada com E. coli enteropatogênica clássica atípica do sorotipo O108:H9, que apresentava genes eae e hlyA. Os resultados obtidos sugerem contaminação da planta de processamento e ou das matérias primas utilizadas na fabricação das linguiças. Uma fiscalização mais adequada das indústrias se torna necessária para que as Boas Práticas de Fabricação sejam atendidas e, consequentemente, prevenida a contaminação do produto por bactérias patogênicas.(AU)

Distribution of non-LEE-encoded type 3 secretion system dependent effectors in enteropathogenic Escherichia coli

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) are important human gastroenteritis agents. The prevalence of six non-LEE genes encoding type 3 translocated effectors was investigated. The nleC, cif and nleB genes were more prevalent in typical than in atypical EPEC, although a higher diversity of genes combinations was observed in atypical EPEC.

Avaliação do potencial probiótico de bactérias láticas provenientes do cacau (Theobroma cacao) contra Escherichia coli K88+

Nos sistemas de produção de suínos tem-se como período mais crítico o desmame, devido a adaptação dos leitões à ração sólida, separação da mãe, perda da integridade intestinal e queda da imunidade dos animais. Estes fatores podem refletir em aumento da quantidade de bactérias enteropatogênicas, dentre elas a Escherichia Coli K88+. Os probióticos são bactérias que, em quantidades satisfatórias, desempenham funções benéficas ao hospedeiro, sendo então uma possível alternativa para os sistemas de produção. Diante disso, pretendeu-se avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana das bactérias láticas derivadas da fermentação da amêndoa do cacau (Theobroma cacao), contra a E. coli K88+. Foram avaliados os parâmetros referentes à capacidade probiótica e citotoxicidade dos lactobacilos frente às células de linhagem intestinal HT-29, autoagregação entre lactobacilos e coagregação destes com E. coli K88+ e o papel dos sobrenadantes destes lactobacilos sobre a viabilidade da E. coli K88+ e sobre a formação de biofilme. O experimento foi realizado após a avaliação de citotoxicidade das cepas de Lactobacillus spp., obtidos da fermentação do cacau, e em associação a esta etapa, foi feito o cultivo dos lactobacilos e da E. coli K88+, assim como produção do sobrenadante para a realização dos testes definidos no experimento. O teste de viabilidade foi realizado para se obter uma concentração ideal de lactobacilos que não causasse danos às células HT-29. A avaliação da autoagregação e da coagregação foi realizada com 24h de interação entre os lactobacilos e a E. coli K88+ e posterior mensuração, assim como para a formação do biofilme, com posterior leitura em espectrofotômetro. Para a avaliação da atividade antimicrobiana, foi realizado o plaqueamento em meio ágar Mueller Hinton. O ensaio de co-cultura foi realizado para verificar se houve interferência ou não sobre o crescimento da E. coli K88+ pelos lactobacilos. Os sobrenadantes de Lactobacillus fermentum 5.2, Lactobacillus plantarum 6.2 e 7.1 não foram capazes de exercer atividade lítica sobre a bactéria estudada, uma vez que não demonstraram efeito sobre a viabilidade da bactéria. Entretanto, o teste com os sobrenadantes demonstrou efeito, diminuindo a formação de biofilme em E . coli K88+, sendo que os lactobacilos foram hábeis em coagregar com a cepa de Escherichia coli K88+ in vitro. Esses dados identificam propriedades probióticas desejáveis das cepas de lactobacilos, através da coagregação com E. coli K88+, além de identificar propriedade antibiofilme desta bactéria no sobrenadante dos L. plantarum e L. fermentum. Tais resultados mostram a possibilidade de uso destas bactérias em produtos para limpeza e higienização de instalações de suínos.

In pig production systems, the most critical period is weaning, due to the adaptation of the piglets to the solid feed, separation of the mother, loss of intestinal integrity and immunity of the animals. These factors may reflect an increase in the amount of enteropathogenic bacteria, among them Escherichia coli K88+. Probiotics are bacteria that, in satisfactory quantities, perform beneficial functions to the host, being then a possible alternative to the production systems. Therefore, it was intended to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of lactic bacteria derived from the fermentation of the cocoa bean (Theobroma cacao) against E. coli K88+. The parameters related to the probiotic capacity and cytotoxicity of lactobacilli against HT-29 intestinal lineage, autoaggregation between lactobacilli and their coaggregation with E. coli K88+ and the role of lactobacilli supernatants on the viability of E. coli K88+ and on biofilm formation. The experiment was carried out after the evaluation of the cytotoxicity of the strains of Lactobacillus spp., obtained from the cocoa fermentation, and in association with this stage the lactobacilli and the E. coli K88+ were cultured, as well as the production of the supernatant for the accomplishment of the tests defined in the experiment. The viability test was performed to obtain an ideal concentration of lactobacilli that did not cause damage to HT-29 cells. The evaluation of self-aggregation and coaggregation was performed with 24h interaction between lactobacilli and E. coli K88+ and subsequent measurement, as well as biofilm formation, with subsequent spectrophotometer reading. For the evaluation of antimicrobial activity, plating was performed in Mueller Hinton agar medium. The co-culture assay was performed to verify whether or not there was interference on the growth of E. coli K88+ by lactobacilli. The supernatants of Lactobacillus fermentum 5.2, Lactobacillus plantarum 6.2 and 7.1 were not able to exert lytic activity on the bacteria studied, since they did not show any effect on the viability of the bacteria. However, the test with the supernatants showed an effect, decreasing the biofilm formation in E. coli K88+, and the lactobacilli were able to coaggregate with the Escherichia coli K88+ strain in vitro. These data identify desirable probiotic properties of lactobacilli strains through coaggregation with E. coli K88+, in addition to identifying the antibiofilm property of this bacterium in the supernatant of L. plantarum and L. fermentum. These results show the possibility of using these bacteria in products for cleaning and sanitizing of pig installations.

Action of phosphorylated mannanoligosaccharides on immune and hematological responses and fecal consistency of dogs experimentally infected with enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains

The therapeutic action of phosphorylated mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) was investigated regarding its prebiotic activity on enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC). Diarrhea was induced in dogs by experimental infection with EPEC strains. Then MOS was supplied once a day, in water for 20 days. Immunological (IgA and IgG), hematological (lymphocytes, neutrophils and monocytes) and bacteriological variables (PCR detection of the eae gene of EPEC recovered from stool culture), as well as occurrence of diarrhea were evaluated. All strains caused diarrhea at 24, 48 and 72 h after infection. PCR results indicated that E. coli isolated from stool culture of all infected animals had the eae gene. There was no significant difference among groups as to number of blood cells in the hemogram and IgA and IgG production. MOS was effective in recovering of EPEC-infected dogs since prebiotic-treated animals recovered more rapidly from infection than untreated ones (p < 0.05). This is an important finding since diarrhea causes intense dehydration and nutrient loss. The use of prebiotics for humans and other animals with diarrhea can be an alternative for the treatment and prophylaxis of EPEC infections.(AU)

Virulence profiles of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli and other potentially diarrheagenic E.coli of bovine origin, in Mendoza, Argentina

This study described a group of strains obtained from a slaughter house in Mendoza, in terms of their pathogenic factors, serotype, antibiotype and molecular profile. Ninety one rectal swabs and one hundred eight plating samples taken from carcasses of healthy cattle intended for meat consumption were analyzed. Both the swab and the plate samples were processed to analyze the samples for the presence of virulence genes by PCR: stx1, stx2, eae and astA. The Stx positive strains were confirmed by citotoxicity assay in Vero cells. The isolates were subsequently investigated for their O:H serotype, antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular profile by Random Amplification of Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Twelve E.coli strains were identified by their pathogenicity. Nine were from fecal origin and three from carcasses. Three strains carried the stx1 gene, three the stx2 gene, two carried eae and four the astA gene. The detected serotypes were: O172:H-; O150:H8; O91:H21; O178:H19 and O2:H5. The strains showed a similarity around 70% by RAPD. Some of the E.coli strains belonged to serogroups known for certain life-threatening diseases in humans. Their presence in carcasses indicates the high probability of bacterial spread during slaughter and processing.

Virulence profiles of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli and other potentially diarrheagenic E.coli of bovine origin, in Mendoza, Argentina

This study described a group of strains obtained from a slaughter house in Mendoza, in terms of their pathogenic factors, serotype, antibiotype and molecular profile. Ninety one rectal swabs and one hundred eight plating samples taken from carcasses of healthy cattle intended for meat consumption were analyzed. Both the swab and the plate samples were processed to analyze the samples for the presence of virulence genes by PCR: stx1, stx2, eae and astA. The Stx positive strains were confirmed by citotoxicity assay in Vero cells. The isolates were subsequently investigated for their O:H serotype, antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular profile by Random Amplification of Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Twelve E.coli strains were identified by their pathogenicity. Nine were from fecal origin and three from carcasses. Three strains carried the stx1 gene, three the stx2 gene, two carried eae and four the astA gene. The detected serotypes were: O172:H-; O150:H8; O91:H21; O178:H19 and O2:H5. The strains showed a similarity around 70% by RAPD. Some of the E.coli strains belonged to serogroups known for certain life-threatening diseases in humans. Their presence in carcasses indicates the high probability of bacterial spread during slaughter and processing.

Infecção experimental com Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas, identificadas por PCR utilizando cápsulas com revestimento entérico em filhotes da raça boxer / Experimental infection with enteropathogenic Escherichia coli identified by PCR using enteric-coated capsules in boxer pups

To verify the possibility of an experimental infection with enteropathogenic Escherichia coli and to confirm by PCR that the symptoms manifested after infection were due to the virulence factors of the studied bacteria. METHODS: Experimental units were 14 healthy pups of Boxer breed, aged 60 days. The animals were divided into three groups. One animal from each litter was included in a control group and the remaining animals were divided into two groups: one inoculated with strain 4083, and another one inoculated with strain SPA14. Gelatinous capsules coated with enteric-coating solution were used for the inoculation of strains. E. coli isolation from feces was performed for all tested animals, and the extracted DNA was subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). RESULTS: All infected animals presented diarrhea and had the gene eae amplified by PCR. CONCLUSION: The efficiency of PCR for the studied strains indicates that this technique can be recommended for the diagnosis of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli as a differential from other pathogens causing diarrhea. It may also be used in the future to verify whether other virulence factors (bfpA gene and EAF plasmid) persist after infection and to assess the pathogenicity of these bacteria.(AU)

Verificar a possibilidade de uma infecção experimental com Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas e confirmar por PCR que os sintomas manifestados após a infecção foram decorrentes dos fatores de virulência da bactéria estudada. MÉTODOS: As unidades experimentais foram 14 filhotes saudáveis com idade de 60 dias da raça Boxer. Os animais foram divididos em três grupos, sendo um controle de cada ninhada e o restante dividido em dois grupos, um de animais inoculados com a cepa 4083 e o outro de animais inoculados com a cepa SPA14. Para inoculação das cepas, utilizaram-se cápsulas gelatinosas revestidas com solução de revestimento entérico. O isolamento de E. coli das fezes foi realizado em todos os animais testados, e o DNA extraído foi submetido à técnica de PCR. RESULTADOS: Todos os animais infectados apresentaram diarréia e tiveram a gene eae amplificado por meio de PCR. CONCLUSÃO: Através da eficiência da PCR das amostras, a técnica seria recomendada para diagnóstico da Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas como diferencial de outros patógenos que causam diarréia, e, no futuro, verificar se outros fatores de virulência (gene bfpA e plasmídeo EAF) permaneceriam após a infecção, podendo avaliar a patogenicidade das EPEC.(AU)

Genetic analysis of Escherichia coli strains carrying enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) markers, isolated from children in Rio de Janeiro city, Brazil

In the present study, 47 enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains identified according to serotyping, presence of eae, bfp and EAF sequences, adherence phenotype and ability to induce attaching-effacing lesions were analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MLEE), and the presence of LEE genes (eae, espA, espB, tir) as well as the respective alleles. Amplification of LEE genes subtypes revealed 18 different pathotypes. Typing of the eae gene showed that most strains contained nontypable intimin (42%) followed by beta (35%), gamma and alpha genes (12% each). PFGE analysis revealed a variable degree of polymorphism among isolates and, in general, no clear correlation was observed among PFGE profiles and the virulence markers identified. Otherwise, grouping based on MLEE analysis showed a close association between eae allele and clonal cluster distribution leading us to indicate the eae profile as a promising marker to establish relatedness among such microorganisms.

No presente estudo, 47 amostras enteropatogênicas de Escherichia coli, previamente caracterizadas pelo sorotipo, fenótipo de aderência, habilidade de induzir a formação da lesão histopatológica e presença das seqüências genéticas eae, bfp e EAF, foram analisadas de acordo com o perfil de fragmentação do DNA cromossômico pela técnica de eletroforese em campo pulsado (PFGE), as variantes isoenzimáticas através da eletroforese de isoenzimas (MLEE) e a presença de seqüências específicas da região LEE (eae, espA, espB, tir) e respectivos alelos. A amplificação destas seqüências mostrou a presença de 18 padrões genéticos distintos. A tipagem do gene eae revelou que a maior parte das amostras apresentou intimina não-tipável (42%) seguida dos tipos alélicos beta (35%), gama e alfa (12% cada). A fragmentação do DNA cromossômico detectou um elevado polimorfismo genético entre as amostras estudadas e não foi observada uma correlação com os marcadores de virulência investigados. Por outro lado, a análise das variantes isoenzimáticas sugeriu uma distribuição clonal específica de variantes genéticas do locus eae, o que nos leva a indicar a sua utilização como um marcador promissor para definir as relações genéticas neste grupo de microrganismos.

Genetic analysis of Escherichia coli strains carrying enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) markers, isolated from children in Rio de Janeiro city, Brazil

In the present study, 47 enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains identified according to serotyping, presence of eae, bfp and EAF sequences, adherence phenotype and ability to induce attaching-effacing lesions were analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MLEE), and the presence of LEE genes (eae, espA, espB, tir) as well as the respective alleles. Amplification of LEE genes subtypes revealed 18 different pathotypes. Typing of the eae gene showed that most strains contained nontypable intimin (42%) followed by beta (35%), gamma and alpha genes (12% each). PFGE analysis revealed a variable degree of polymorphism among isolates and, in general, no clear correlation was observed among PFGE profiles and the virulence markers identified. Otherwise, grouping based on MLEE analysis showed a close association between eae allele and clonal cluster distribution leading us to indicate the eae profile as a promising marker to establish relatedness among such microorganisms.

No presente estudo, 47 amostras enteropatogênicas de Escherichia coli, previamente caracterizadas pelo sorotipo, fenótipo de aderência, habilidade de induzir a formação da lesão histopatológica e presença das seqüências genéticas eae, bfp e EAF, foram analisadas de acordo com o perfil de fragmentação do DNA cromossômico pela técnica de eletroforese em campo pulsado (PFGE), as variantes isoenzimáticas através da eletroforese de isoenzimas (MLEE) e a presença de seqüências específicas da região LEE (eae, espA, espB, tir) e respectivos alelos. A amplificação destas seqüências mostrou a presença de 18 padrões genéticos distintos. A tipagem do gene eae revelou que a maior parte das amostras apresentou intimina não-tipável (42%) seguida dos tipos alélicos beta (35%), gama e alfa (12% cada). A fragmentação do DNA cromossômico detectou um elevado polimorfismo genético entre as amostras estudadas e não foi observada uma correlação com os marcadores de virulência investigados. Por outro lado, a análise das variantes isoenzimáticas sugeriu uma distribuição clonal específica de variantes genéticas do locus eae, o que nos leva a indicar a sua utilização como um marcador promissor para definir as relações genéticas neste grupo de microrganismos.

Detection of Salmonella spp. and diarrheagenic Escherichia coli in fresh pork sausages / Pesquisa de Salmonella spp. e Escherichia coli diarreiogênica em linguiças suínas frescas

The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in meat products may result in foodborne diseases and economic losses to their producers. Small industries in the region of Londrina, Paraná, produce sausages that are commercialized in free fairs, small markets, bars, and restaurants in the city. Although these industries are inspected by the Municipal Inspection Service of Londrina, there are no data about the pathogenic microorganisms present in these products. The objective of this study was to investigate the presence of Salmonella spp. in sausages produced and sold in the region of Londrina, Paraná, and identify eae, bfp, stx1, stx2, hlyA, ipaH, elt, est, aggR, aap, and AA probe genes in Escherichia coli strains isolated from these samples. Forty-six samples of three types of sausages (fresh pork, Tuscan, and Calabresa) produced by four different producers (brands A, B, C, and D) were analyzed. Salmonella spp. was isolated from 13 (28.3%) and E. coli from 33 (71.3%) of the analyzed samples. Seven (53.8%) of 13 samples contaminated with Salmonella spp. were from brand A. Salmonella spp. contamination was the highest in the Tuscan sausage samples (8/17, 41.7%) when compared with the fresh pork sausage samples of all brands analyzed. E. coli was isolated from 12 of 13 samples contaminated with Salmonella spp. One sample of Calabresa sausage was contaminated with atypical enteropathogenic E. coli serotype O108:H9 that has the eae and hlyA genes. The results suggest contamination of the processing plant and/or raw meat used in the manufacture of sausages. A better inspection of the industries is required to ensure that Good Manufacturing Practices are followed by which the contamination of products by pathogenic bacteria can be prevented.

A presença de microrganismos patogênicos em produtos cárneos pode levar a doenças de origem alimentar e perdas econômicas aos seus produtores. Pequenas indústrias da região de Londrina, Paraná, produzem embutidos que são comercializados em feiras livres, pequenos mercados, bares e restaurantes da cidade. Embora essas indústrias sejam fiscalizadas pelo Serviço de Inspeção Municipal de Londrina, não existem dados sobre microrganismos patogênicos presentes nesses produtos. Os objetivos deste estudo foram pesquisar a presença de Salmonella spp. em amostras de linguiças produzidas e comercializadas na região de Londrina, Paraná, e identificar os genes de virulência eae, bfp, stx1, stx2, hlyA, ipaH, elt, est, aggR, aap e AA probe das cepas de E. coli isoladas dessas amostras. Quarenta e seis amostras de três tipos de linguiça (suína fresca, toscana e calabresa) produzidas por quatro diferentes produtores (marcas A, B, C e D) foram analisadas. Salmonella spp. foi isolada em 13 (28.3%) amostras e E. coli em 33 (71.3%) amostras. Das 13 amostras contaminadas com Salmonella spp., sete (53.8%) foram da marca A. A contaminação por Salmonella spp. foi maior nas amostras de linguiça toscana (8/17 – 41.7%) quando comparada com a contaminação encontrada nas amostras de linguiça suína (4/22 – 18.2%), independente da marca analisada. E. coli foi isolada de 12 das 13 amostras contaminadas com Salmonella spp. Uma amostra de linguiça calabresa estava contaminada com E. coli enteropatogênica clássica atípica do sorotipo O108:H9, que apresentava genes eae e hlyA. Os resultados obtidos sugerem contaminação da planta de processamento e ou das matérias primas utilizadas na fabricação das linguiças. Uma fiscalização mais adequada das indústrias se torna necessária para que as Boas Práticas de Fabricação sejam atendidas e, consequentemente, prevenida a contaminação do produto por bactérias patogênicas.

Genetic analysis of Escherichia coli strains carrying enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) markers, isolated from children in Rio de Janeiro city, Brazil

In the present study, 47 enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains identified according to serotyping, presence of eae, bfp and EAF sequences, adherence phenotype and ability to induce attaching-effacing lesions were analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MLEE), and the presence of LEE genes (eae, espA, espB, tir) as well as the respective alleles. Amplification of LEE genes subtypes revealed 18 different pathotypes. Typing of the eae gene showed that most strains contained nontypable intimin (42%) followed by beta (35%), gamma and alpha genes (12% each). PFGE analysis revealed a variable degree of polymorphism among isolates and, in general, no clear correlation was observed among PFGE profiles and the virulence markers identified. Otherwise, grouping based on MLEE analysis showed a close association between eae allele and clonal cluster distribution leading us to indicate the eae profile as a promising marker to establish relatedness among such microorganisms.

No presente estudo, 47 amostras enteropatogênicas de Escherichia coli, previamente caracterizadas pelo sorotipo, fenótipo de aderência, habilidade de induzir a formação da lesão histopatológica e presença das seqüências genéticas eae, bfp e EAF, foram analisadas de acordo com o perfil de fragmentação do DNA cromossômico pela técnica de eletroforese em campo pulsado (PFGE), as variantes isoenzimáticas através da eletroforese de isoenzimas (MLEE) e a presença de seqüências específicas da região LEE (eae, espA, espB, tir) e respectivos alelos. A amplificação destas seqüências mostrou a presença de 18 padrões genéticos distintos. A tipagem do gene eae revelou que a maior parte das amostras apresentou intimina não-tipável (42%) seguida dos tipos alélicos beta (35%), gama e alfa (12% cada). A fragmentação do DNA cromossômico detectou um elevado polimorfismo genético entre as amostras estudadas e não foi observada uma correlação com os marcadores de virulência investigados. Por outro lado, a análise das variantes isoenzimáticas sugeriu uma distribuição clonal específica de variantes genéticas do locus eae, o que nos leva a indicar a sua utilização como um marcador promissor para definir as relações genéticas neste grupo de microrganismos.

Virulence-associated genes diversity in Escherichia coli O128 strains isolated in São Paulo, Brazil / Diversidade dos genes associados à virulência em cepas de Escherichia coli O128 isoladas em São Paulo, Brasil

Hundred-three Escherichia coli strains of serogroup O128 were serotyped and examined for virulenceassociated genes. The 59 representative strains of all serotypes were submitted to ribotyping. The serotypes O128:H35 (41.7%), O128:H2 (14.6%), O128:H- (8.7%) and O128:H8 (6.8%) were the most frequently found. Serotype O128ab:H2 strains only carried the eae and bfpA sequences. These strains exhibited the LA-like adhesion pattern. Serotype O128ab:H8 strains and some non-motile strains reacted only with the eae probe, and they were classified as atypical EPEC. The O128:H35 strains corresponded to the enteroaggregative category. Enterotoxigenic strains were found among O128ac:H7, O128ac:H21, O128ac:H27 and O128ac:H- strains. Clonal group A comprised the majority of virulence markers - harbouring strains, while clonal group B included mainly those strains devoid of any virulence marker.

Foram estudadas 103 cepas de Escherichia coli do sorogrupo O128, quanto às características fenotípicas e genotípicas associadas à virulência. Cinqüenta e nove cepas representantes de todos os sorotipos foram submetidas a ribotipagem. Os sorotipos mais freqüentes foram O128:H35 (41,7%), O128:H2 (14,6%), O128:H- (8,7%) e O128:H8 (6,8%). Diferentes grupos enteropatogênicos foram identificados. Somente as cepas do sorotipo O128:H2 foram positivas para as sondas eae and bfpA e apresentaram o padrão de adesão AL-like. Cepas do sorotipo O128:H8 e algumas imóveis reagiram apenas com a sonda eae e foram classificadas como EPEC atípicas. As cepas O128:H35 corresponderam à categoria enteroagregativa e os sorotipos O128:H7, O128:H21, O128:H27 e as cepas imóveis foram classificadas como enterotoxigênicas. Todas as cepas que apresentaram marcadores de virulência pertenciam ao grupo clonal A, enquanto que no grupo clonal B estavam incluídas as cepas desprovidas dos fatores de virulência pesquisados.

Isolation of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) serotype 091:H21 from a child with diarrhea in Porto Alegre city, RS, Brazil

We describe the isolation of one strain of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O91:H21 from a child with diarrhea in the city of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. Considering the pathogenic potential of STEC, these organisms should be looked for more carefully among our population.

É descrito o isolamento de uma cepa de Escherichia coli O91:H21 produtora de toxina Shiga (STEC) em associação com diarréia em uma criança da cidade de Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil. Dado o potencial para causar complicações graves, infecções por STECs deveriam ser melhor avaliadas em nossa população.