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[Detection of pathogenicity island-associated genes in enterococcal isolates]

Min Wu1, Yi-Zhong Chen, Zu-Qiong Hu

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.

Nan Fang Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao = Journal of Southern Medical University
|June 28, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pathogenicity island (PAI)-associated genes are widespread in enterococci. E. faecalis strains, particularly those from clinical sources, show higher prevalence of these virulence genes compared to E. faecium and isolates from healthy individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Context:

  • Enterococci are significant human pathogens.
  • Pathogenicity islands (PAIs) contribute to bacterial virulence.
  • Understanding PAI gene distribution is crucial for infection control.

Purpose:

  • To detect and quantify PAI-associated genes in enterococcal isolates.
  • To compare the prevalence of these genes between different enterococcal species (E. faecalis vs. E. faecium).
  • To assess differences in gene carriage between clinical and healthy isolates.

Summary:

  • PCR and hybridization identified PAI genes in 137 out of 155 enterococcal strains (88.39%).
  • Prevalence rates for hyd, psaA, nuc, esp, cylB, and gls24-like genes were high, especially in E. faecalis.
  • Clinical E. faecalis isolates exhibited significantly higher rates and numbers of PAI genes than those from healthy individuals.

Impact:

  • Reveals extensive distribution of PAI-associated genes in enterococci.
  • Highlights E. faecalis as a more frequent carrier of these virulence factors.
  • Suggests a link between PAI gene carriage and clinical origin, informing risk assessment and treatment strategies.

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