Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026
On-Site Molecular Detection of Soil-Borne Phytopathogens Using a Portable Real-Time PCR System
Published on: February 23, 2018
The Infestation of Supplied Mincemeat to Sarcocystis Species and Their Polymorphism Using PCR-SSCP Method
Ahmad Nematollahi1, Masumeh Firuz Amandi1, Mohadeseh Emdadi1
1Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
Background:
Sarcocystis spp. is zoonotic parasitic pathogen endangering the safety of meat and derived meat products. This study was carried on for determination of presence of Sarcocystis species in mincemeat in Tabriz (Iran) using single-stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) method.
Methods:
Thirty samples of mixed ground meat were collected from butchers and DNA was extracted. The 18S rRNA gene fragment of S. cruzi and S. hominis species in the extracted DNA amplified by PCR using one pair specific primers, which resulted in 937 bp length fragments in parasite-positive samples. The results showed that 11 samples out of 30 (36%) were positive for S. cruzi and S. hominis species. The SSCP technique products of gene indicated 4 SSCP patterns (A, B, C and D) among study samples on 18S rRNA gene of S. cruzi and S. hominis.
Results:
Contamination with Sarcocystis species in minced meat sold in Tabriz City in Iran is relatively high, which is of particular importance from a health point of view. This study was currently by SSCP technique on minced meat for the first time, based on the primers in the 18S rRNA gene locus, there are polymorphisms in S. cruzi and S. hominis species.
Conclusion:
Due to the relatively high level of Sarcocystis contamination in minced meats in Tabriz, the necessary hygienic measures should be must implemented. Also, there was polymorphism in S. cruzi and S. homonis.
Insights
Sarcocystis species contamination in minced meat in Tabriz, Iran, was found to be 36%. This highlights the need for improved hygiene measures to ensure meat safety and prevent parasitic infections from Sarcocystis cruzi and Sarcocystis hominis.
Area of Science:
- Food Safety
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Sarcocystis spp. are zoonotic parasites that pose a significant threat to meat product safety.
- Minced meat products are a common vehicle for Sarcocystis transmission to humans.
- Accurate detection methods are crucial for monitoring and controlling Sarcocystis contamination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Sarcocystis species in minced meat samples from Tabriz, Iran.
- To apply the single-stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) technique for Sarcocystis detection.
- To identify specific Sarcocystis species, namely Sarcocystis cruzi and Sarcocystis hominis.
Main Methods:
- Thirty minced meat samples were collected from local markets in Tabriz.
- DNA was extracted from meat samples, and the 18S rRNA gene fragment was amplified using PCR.
- Single-stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis was performed to detect genetic variations.
Main Results:
- Sarcocystis species were detected in 11 out of 30 (36%) minced meat samples.
- PCR amplification yielded 937 bp fragments for Sarcocystis cruzi and Sarcocystis hominis.
- SSCP analysis revealed four distinct patterns (A, B, C, D) in the 18S rRNA gene, indicating genetic polymorphism.
Conclusions:
- Minced meat in Tabriz exhibits a relatively high level of Sarcocystis contamination.
- The findings underscore the importance of implementing stringent hygienic practices in meat processing and handling.
- Polymorphisms in the 18S rRNA gene of Sarcocystis cruzi and Sarcocystis hominis were identified, aiding in species differentiation.
