Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Analysis of Yersinia enterocolitica Effector Translocation into Host Cells Using Beta-lactamase Effector Fusions
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Analysis of Yersinia enterocolitica Effector Translocation into Host Cells Using Beta-lactamase Effector Fusions

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[Virulence plasmid in Yersinia enterocolitica O:3 of murine origin]

J Zamora1, G Reinhardt, P Macías

  • 1Instituto de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile. jzamora@uach.cl

Revista Medica De Chile
|November 27, 1998
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Rodents, particularly domestic rats, carry Yersinia enterocolitica. This bacterium possesses a virulence plasmid and can spread infection to humans and other animals.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Veterinary Science
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica strains possess a 45-48 megadalton virulence plasmid.
  • Rodents are recognized reservoirs for Yersinia enterocolitica.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and carrier status of Yersinia enterocolitica in rodent populations.
  • To identify specific rodent species acting as reservoirs for Yersinia enterocolitica.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and culture of Yersinia enterocolitica from viscera and fecal homogenates of 261 rodents (mice and rats).
  • Detection of virulence plasmids using crystal violet binding assay.
  • Rodent capture conducted in both rural and urban areas of Valdivia.

Main Results:

  • Thirteen Yersinia enterocolitica strains were isolated from 11 rodents.
  • Isolated strains included biotype 1 (10 strains) and biotype 4, serotype O:3 (3 strains).
  • Rattus norvergicus showed the highest infection rate (20%), followed by Akodon longipilis (11%).

Conclusions:

  • Rodents, especially Rattus norvergicus, serve as significant reservoirs for Yersinia enterocolitica.
  • These findings highlight the potential for Yersinia enterocolitica transmission from rodents to humans and susceptible animal species.

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