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Updated: Aug 9, 2026

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Oral Transmission of Listeria monocytogenes in Mice via Ingestion of Contaminated Food
Published on: May 6, 2013
Mutation of Listeria monocytogenes After Prolonged In Vivo Survival in Diffusion Chambers
J W Osebold1, P M Outteridge, L D Pearson
1Department of Veterinary Microbiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California 95616.
Infection and Immunity
|February 1, 1970
Abstract:
Listeria monocytogenes remained viable when confined in diffusion chambers in the peritoneal cavities of mice. Bacterial survival was associated with mutations.
Insights
Listeria monocytogenes survived within mouse peritoneal cavities using diffusion chambers. This bacterial survival was linked to specific genetic mutations.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is an important foodborne pathogen.
- Understanding bacterial survival mechanisms is crucial for infection control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the viability and survival mechanisms of Listeria monocytogenes in a murine model.
- To identify potential genetic factors contributing to bacterial persistence.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing diffusion chambers to confine Listeria monocytogenes within the peritoneal cavities of mice.
- Monitoring bacterial viability over time.
- Analyzing bacterial populations for genetic mutations.
Main Results:
- Listeria monocytogenes demonstrated sustained viability when encapsulated in diffusion chambers.
- Bacterial survival within the peritoneal environment was correlated with the acquisition of specific mutations.
- These mutations may play a role in adapting to the host environment.
Conclusions:
- The peritoneal cavity can support Listeria monocytogenes viability.
- Genetic mutations are associated with the survival of Listeria monocytogenes in this confined host environment.
- Further research into these mutations could reveal novel therapeutic targets.

