Bacteriophage-encoded shiga toxin gene in canine feces
Author Information
Author(s): Casas Veronica, Sobrepeña Gerico, Rodriguez-Mueller Beltran, AhTye Justine, Maloy Stanley R
Primary Institution: San Diego State University
Hypothesis
Canine fecal samples collected from the Ocean Beach Dog Beach may contain the stx gene normally found in fecal Shigella spp. or E. coli.
Conclusion
The study found that the stx gene was present in multiple species of bacteria from canine fecal samples, specifically identified as Enterococcus, suggesting horizontal gene transfer of exotoxin genes in recreational waters.
Supporting Evidence
- The stx gene was detected in one of the 20 fecal samples.
- Five out of 89 bacterial isolates screened tested positive for the stx gene.
- Phylogenetic analyses confirmed that the isolates belonged to the genus Enterococcus.
Takeaway
Scientists checked dog poop from a beach to see if it had a gene that can make bacteria harmful, and they found it in some samples.
Methodology
Twenty canine fecal samples were collected and screened for the stx gene using PCR, with bacterial isolates cultivated and analyzed phylogenetically.
Limitations
The study only examined a small number of fecal samples from one location, which may not represent broader trends.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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