Isolation of lmo Gene in Listeria monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive coccobacilli, which have ability to grow and survive inside the body of the alive creatures, it also can be the cause for Listeriosis. lmo gene in Listeria monocytogenes is regarded as a factor to increase the bacteria resistance against undesirable environmental conditions such as temperature, pH and biliary salts changes. This present study aims to investigate the lmo gene presence in the Listeria monocytogenes separated from vegetables.

From late May to November of 2012, and in a 7 month period, the amount of 82 different vegetable samples have been gathered from farms in Behesht e Zahra Tehran, agricultural lands in Varamin and also some groceries throughout Tehran. The Listeria monocytogenes has been separated through taking advantage from Bacteriology Standard Method. And the lmo gene have been recognized in Listeria monocytogenes by PCR.Resaults: Among 82 separated vegetables such as lattice (23 samples), white cabbage (19 samples), red cabbag(19 samples), celery (13 samples) and parsley(12 samples), among them 8 samples(%9/7) included the Listeria monocytogenes. In these 82 samples, 4 cases(%17/3) Listeria monocytogenes, 3 cases (%15/7),and 1 sample(%6/7) have been separated from lattice,white cabbage and parsley, respectively. Of these 7 samples (%87/5) had lmo gene. Samples taken from meat, diary, standard and clinical samples having Listeria monocytogenes had lmo gene.

During this investigation it was obvious that the lmo gene of separated Listertia monocytogenes have been seen in vegetable samples which can be effective in survival of the bacteria and its being the cause of disease by helping bacteria to stay alive in adverse environmental conditions and also in the body of the host. The prevalence of the Listeria monocytogenes is low but it is noticeable as it has the capability to be the cause for fatal disease. So in order to prevent from the infection with Listeria monocytogenes, it is recommended to pay attention to the hygiene related issue during food provision in order to prevent the risk of catching Listeria monocytogenes infection. In this regard become familiar with disease factors can help us to kill the Listeria monocytogenes Bacteria.