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Multilocus variable-number tandem repeat typing of Mycobacterium ulcerans.
Anthony Ablordey1, Jean Swings, Christine Hubans
1Mycobacteriology Unit, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|April 9, 2005
Summary
Variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) sequences were identified as novel polymorphic elements in Mycobacterium ulcerans. This new genotyping method successfully discriminated between M. ulcerans strains, including previously indistinguishable South American isolates.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Mycobacterium ulcerans exhibits significant genetic homogeneity, complicating the understanding of its epidemiology.
- Identifying genetic markers is crucial for tracking M. ulcerans transmission and outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify novel polymorphic genetic elements in Mycobacterium ulcerans.
- To develop a Variable Number Tandem Repeat (VNTR)-based genotyping method for M. ulcerans and M. marinum strain discrimination.
Main Methods:
- Screened 19 potential VNTR loci from M. marinum in 23 M. ulcerans isolates, an intermediate species, and 5 M. marinum strains.
- Analyzed VNTR polymorphism to identify genotypes within the studied Mycobacterium species.
Main Results:
- Identified 9 polymorphic VNTR loci across M. ulcerans, M. marinum, and the intermediate species.
- Discovered 8 distinct M. ulcerans genotypes and 5 M. marinum genotypes.
- Successfully discriminated two South American M. ulcerans strains from Surinam and French Guyana, previously indistinguishable.
Conclusions:
- VNTR analysis provides a valuable tool for discriminating strains within M. ulcerans and M. marinum.
- The findings highlight the potential of VNTR genotyping for improving the understanding of M. ulcerans epidemiology.
- Despite overall homogeneity, VNTR markers reveal subtle genetic variations useful for epidemiological studies.