Detection of Virulence Genes Stx1, Stx2, eae A and hly A in E.coli Isolated from Local Minced Meat

Abstract

The current study included the investigation of E. coli bacteria in random samples of ground meat, the detection of virulence genes in isolates, and the study of isolates resistance to some widely used antibiotics. Twenty-four samples of minced meat were collected to isolate and identify E. coli bacteria by phenotypic, microscopic characteristics and traditional biochemical tests were done. Antibiotic susceptibility tests, genomes of isolates were extracted, the virulence factors Stx1, Stx2, eae A and hly A were investigated by multiplex PCR technique. 7 isolates showed Colonies with a metallic green luster on EMB medium, gram negative, rod shaped bacteria, facultative anaerobic bacteria, positive for indole, methyl red and catalase tests, and negative for Fox Proscore, urease and oxidase tests. All isolates were containing hly A gene, 6 isolates were containing the virulence gene Stx1, 5 isolates containing were eae A gene and 4 isolates were containing Stx2 gene. The results shown a high resistance of E. coli isolates to all types of antibiotics used, as all isolates were possessed multiple antibiotic resistance.