Real-time PCRs assay for serogrouping Listeria monocytogenes and differentiation from other Listeria spp.

A 5'-exonuclease real-time triplex-PCR assay was developed for serogrouping Listeria monocytogenes, and differentiation from other Listeria spp. The assay was evaluated on 109 Listeria cultures, and results were compared with a previously validated gel-based multiplex-PCR procedure. All L. monocytogenes were correctly classified into four serogroups, including atypical serotype 4b strains, and differentiated from other Listeria species. The assay is a rapid method for categorisation of suspect L. monocytogenes.