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[Multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis for molecular subtypes of Shigella isolates in Beijing]
Mei Qu1, Xin Zhang, Ying Huang
1Department of Infectious and Endemic Diseases Control, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing 100013, China.
Summary
A new multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) method using 10 variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) loci was developed for Shigella strains. This method revealed diverse molecular subtypes among Shigella isolates in Beijing, suggesting multiple origins.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Shigella spp. are significant bacterial pathogens causing dysentery.
- Molecular typing methods are crucial for understanding pathogen transmission and evolution.
- Previous typing methods for Shigella have limitations in discriminatory power.
Purpose:
- To develop and establish a multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) method for Shigella spp.
- To select optimal variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) loci for differentiating Shigella serogroups.
- To investigate the molecular characteristics of Shigella strains isolated in Beijing.
Summary:
- A total of 180 Shigella strains (50 Shigella sonnei, 130 Shigella flexneri) isolated in Beijing between 2001 and 2009 were analyzed.
- Ten VNTR loci (sh1-sh10) were selected after screening 18 loci for their polymorphism.
- The developed MLVA method successfully differentiated the strains into 84 subtypes, with a high resolution ratio (D=0.967).
Impact:
- The study established a robust MLVA subtyping method for Shigella, enhancing molecular surveillance capabilities.
- The findings highlight the genetic diversity of Shigella strains circulating in Beijing.
- The observed diversity suggests the potential for multiple independent introductions and clonal expansion of Shigella strains.
