Reclassification of Enterobacter sakazakii into a New Genus Cronobacter
Author Information
Author(s): Carol Iversen, Angelika Lehner, Niall Mullane, Eva Bidlas, Ilse Cleenwerck, John Marugg, Séamus Fanning, Roger Stephan, Han Joosten
Primary Institution: Nestlé Research Centre
Hypothesis
The study investigates the taxonomic relationship of strains described as E. sakazakii to propose a new genus.
Conclusion
This study clarifies the taxonomy of E. sakazakii and proposes a reclassification of these organisms.
Supporting Evidence
- 210 strains of E. sakazakii were analyzed to clarify their taxonomic relationships.
- Five separate species were identified based on DNA-DNA hybridization results.
- Statistical analysis showed that important biochemical tests could differentiate the proposed species.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a bacteria called E. sakazakii is actually made up of different types, so they decided to give it a new name, Cronobacter.
Methodology
Independent molecular methods, including f-AFLP, automated ribotyping, full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and DNA-DNA hybridization, were employed.
Limitations
The study does not provide sufficient evidence regarding the virulence potential of the newly classified species.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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