Multiple-locus variable number of tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) of Irish verocytotoxigenic Escherichia coli O157 from feedlot cattle: uncovering strain dissemination routes

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The identification of the routes of dissemination of <it>Escherichia coli (E. coli) </it>O157 through a cohort of cattle is a critical step to control this pathogen at farm level. The aim of this study was to identify potential routes of dissemination of <it>E. coli </it>O157 using Multiple-Locus Variable number of tandem repeat Analysis (MLVA).</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Thirty-eight environmental and sixteen cattle faecal isolates, which were detected in four adjacent pens over a four-month period were sub-typed. MLVA could separate these isolates into broadly defined clusters consisting of twelve MLVA types. Strain diversity was observed within pens, individual cattle and the environment.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Application of MLVA is a broadly useful and convenient tool when applied to uncover the dissemination of <it>E. coli </it>O157 in the environment and in supporting improved on-farm management of this important pathogen. These data identified diverse strain types based on amplification of VNTR markers in each case.</p