Detection of some virulence genes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from meat at Mosul city

Abstract

Meat is a rich source of protein for humans. Pseudomonas is one of the meat spoilage microorganisms, as it is highly pathogenic and affects the health of consumers and meat handlers. The current study detected the presence of some virulence genes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from meat in Mosul city, including ToxA, ExoS, OprL, and PlcH virulence genes in 21 isolates of P. aeruginosa using PCR. Results revealed the presence of ToxA, OprL, and PlcH genes at 57.14%, 38.09%, and 71.42%, respectively, while all the isolates of P. aeruginosa were negative for the presence of the ExoS gene. The prevalence of ToxA and PLcH genes was higher in beef meat compared to mutton and chicken meat, while the OprL gene was not detected in mutton. These results indicated that some strains of P. aeruginosa are pathogenic to meat handlers and consumers; following food safety practices must be applied in the meat production chain to prevent meat contamination with pathogenic bacteria.