The BOX-rep-APD - a rapid and efficient method for the identification and differentiation of Listeria

摘要

The BOX-rep-APD, a new, relatively simple and fast technique for genotyping bacteria is described. PCR is used to amplify DNA stretches between repetitive (rep) genetic elements of the bacterial genome in the presence of the BOX primer. The random distribution of these elements within the genome results in a number of amplified DNA fragments of different lengths which, after electrophoretic separation, give a characteristic banding pattern (fingerprint). Different Listeria spp. were genotyped in this way, and characteristic genetic fingerprints were obtained. L. monocytogenes was separated into 2 main clusters. Within the species L. innocua, 4 clusters were obtained. L. welshimeri showed 3 BOX-rep-APD profiles, while the investigated strains of L.seeligeri were quite similar to each other. It is concluded that the BOX-rep-APD is well suited for the identification of Listeria spp.