Genotyping and distribution of putative virulence factors and antibiotic resistance genes of strains isolated from raw meat.

BACKGROUND

strains with multiple antimicrobial resistance are primarily known as opportunistic nosocomial bacteria but they may also be regarded as emerging bacterial contaminants of food samples of animal origin. Here we aimed to study the molecular characteristics of the strains isolated from raw meat samples.

METHODS

A total of 22 strains were isolated from 126 animal meat samples and were genotyped by ERIC-PCR method and by PCR detection of their virulence and antimicrobial resistance determinants. strains with 80% and more similarities were considered as one cluster.

RESULTS

Sixteen different genetic clusters were found amongst the 22 strains. Of the 22 strains, 12 (54.54%) had similar genetic cluster. strains exhibited the highest percentage of resistance against tetracycline (90.90%), trimethoprim (59.09%), cotrimoxazole (54.54%) and gentamicin (50.00%). (81.81%), (72.72%), (63.63%), (63.63%), (63.63%) and (45.45%) were the most commonly detected antibiotic resistance genes. (81.81%), (63.63%), (63.63%), (59.09%), (54.54%) and (50.00%) were the most commonly detected virulence factors. strains isolated from the chicken meat samples had the highest similarities in the genetic cluster.

CONCLUSIONS

strains with similar genetic cluster (ERIC-Type) had the same prevalence of antibiotic resistance, antibiotic resistance genes and virulence factors. Genetic cluster of the strains is the main factor affected the similarities in the genotypic and phenotypic properties of the strains.