Molecular diversity of Clostridium botulinum and phenotypically similar strains

Abstract

This study was undertaken to examine phenotypic and genetic features of strains preliminary classified as Clostridium botulinum species. The phenotypic characteristics were assessed with different culture media and biochemical tests. The genetic characterization included detection of botulinum toxin genes by PCR and macrorestriction analysis with SmaI, XhoI and SacII by PFGE (Pulsed-field Gel Electrophoresis). Despite similar biochemical properties of all analysed strains, only 47% of them contained genes determining toxicity specific to C. botulinum species. The most valuable differentiation of C. botulinum and C. botulinum-like strains was obtained after SmaI digestion. The highest affinity was observed among C. botulinum type B profiles which was even up to 100%. It was found 100% of affinity between C. botulinum and C. botulinum-like strains, however, the similarity among C. botulinum and C. botulinum-like was generally lower than 80%.

Prevalence of C. botulinum and C. perfringens spores in food products available on Polish market

“…The real-time PCR screening method was used for C. botulinum detection, based on ntnh gene detection according to Raphael et al ( 22 ) with modifications by Grenda et al ( 8 ). Real-time PCR results were verified using multiplex PCR method for detection of specific BoNT genes determining production of A, B, E, and F toxins according to De Medici et al ( 5 ).…”

“…Real-time PCR results were verified using multiplex PCR method for detection of specific BoNT genes determining production of A, B, E, and F toxins according to De Medici et al ( 5 ). All PCR methods used in this study were previously validated on artificially contaminated food and feed matrices ( 8 ).…”