Determination of tdh and trh Positive Vibrio alginolyticus Isolates from Black Mussel (Choromytilus meridionalis) in Aegean Sea coast of Turkey

Abstract

Abstract: Vibrio alginolyticus is one of the important pathogens, especially found in bivalve mollusks and food poisoning in humans. The severity of food poisoning is directly proportional to the virulence genes of V. alginolyticus. Tdh-Related Hemolysin (trh) and Thermostable Direct Hemolysin (tdh) genes have an important place among the virulence genes found in V. alginolyticus. In this research, 17 V. alginolyticus were isolated from 17 orders (80.95%) of 21 sets of black mussels (Choromytilus Meridionalis) samples purchased from local divers in İzmir and Balıkesir regions. While trh gene was detected in 7 (42.17%) of 17 isolates, tdh gene was found in 6 (35.29%) and both trh and tdh genes were found in 2 (11.76%) isolates; no trh or tdh gene was found in 2 isolates (11.76%). The results of the study are also important in terms of public health. Black mussel is a product that is mainly consumed in coastal areas in Turkey and is mostly sold uncontrolled by mussel sellers. Vibrios with virulence genes can cause food poisoning, especially in summer. In addition, V. alginolyticus may be a tdh-trh reservoir for other vibrio species. To clarify this, more detailed research should be done with other vibrio species and other bivalve species.