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Multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis genotyping of human Brucella isolates from Turkey
Selçuk Kiliç1, Ivan N Ivanov, Riza Durmaz
1Refik Saydam National Public Health Agency, Department of Communicable Diseases Research, Bacterial Zoonoses Research and Reference Laboratory (National Brucellosis Reference Laboratory), Cemal Gursel Street 18, 06100 Sihhiye Ankara, Turkey. selcuk.kilic@rshm.gov.tr
This study used multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) to analyze 162 human Brucella isolates in Turkey. The findings reveal distinct genetic profiles and geographic clustering of Brucella strains, offering insights into disease epidemiology.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Brucellosis is a significant zoonotic disease globally.
- Understanding the genetic diversity of Brucella is crucial for effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic diversity and epidemiological relationships of human Brucella isolates in Turkey.
- To establish molecular typing data for Brucella strains circulating in the region.
Main Methods:
- Multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA-16(Orsay)) was performed on 162 human Brucella isolates from Turkey.
- The assay utilized eight minisatellite (panel 1) and eight microsatellite (panel 2) markers.
Main Results:
- MLVA-16(Orsay) identified 105 distinct genotypes among the isolates.
- Two major genotypes accounted for 85% of the strains, with some genotypes showing geographic restriction.
- Isolates from the same outbreak or patient relapse exhibited identical genotypes, confirming the method's accuracy.
Conclusions:
- The study provides the first molecular typing data for human Brucella isolates in Turkey.
- Turkish Brucella melitensis isolates show close genetic links to strains from neighboring East Mediterranean countries.
- MLVA is a powerful tool for tracking Brucella transmission and understanding its population structure.
