Introduction: Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains
are human pathogens linked to hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Shiga toxins (Stx1 and Stx2) are the major virulent factors of these strains.
The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and distribution of
stx1 and stx2 gene in E. coli strains isolated from Sangesari lambs
domesticated in Semnan suburb, Iran. Materials and Methods: During
a 3-monthes survey in 2014, 160 samples of recto-anal mucosal swabs were
collected from lambs with diarrhea. They were examined for the E. coli in
cultural medium and biochemical tests as the causative agent of gastrointestinal
tract (GI) infection and investigated the presence of stx1 and stx2
genes by using multiplex-PCR. Results: Fifty one Escherichia coli strains were isolated from 160
fecal samples. Twelve of them were (24%) positive for at least one type of STX genes
(STEC strain). Of the 12 STEC isolates, 5 (10%) harbored stx1, 4 (8%) stx2,
and 3 (6%) carried both stx1 and stx2. Conclusion: The
frequency of stx1 and stx2 distribution in Sangesari lambs and their relation
to human GI diseases is not well understood yet. According to the popularity of
lamb meat in Iran, specially breeding these animals in Semnan suburbs, it is
warrant to consider precise regulations to restrict and prevent the prevalence
of this life-threatening and foodborne diseases in Iran.
Staji H, Salimi Bejestani M R, Changizi E, Javaheri Vayeghan A. Distribution of Escherichia coli Shiga toxin encoding genes (stx1, stx2) in Sangesari lambs suffering from diarrhea by Multiplex PCR technique. Koomesh 1394; 17 (1) :84-91 URL: http://koomeshjournal.semums.ac.ir/article-1-2741-en.html