Study of frequency of eaeA, stx1 and stx2 genes in Escherichia coli isolated from local cheeses in Maragheh city by multiplex PCR

Pathogens can be transmitted to the humans through the consumption of contaminated local dairy products such as cheese and, thus, cause pathogenic diseases. Shiga toxin produced by Escherichia coli can cause mild watery diarrhea as well as serious complications such as hemorrhagic colitis, and hemolytic uremic syndrome and may even lead to death. The present study was conducted to investigate the frequency of eaeA, stx1 and stx2 genes in Escherichia coli isolated from local cheese in Maragheh city through multiplex PCR. Thirty two Escherichia coli isolates from local cheese in Maragheh city were studied with regard to the frequency of stx1, stx2 and eaeA genes through multiplex PCR. The frequency of eaeA gene in Escherichia coli isolates was 15.62% (5:32). Stx1 and stx2 genes were not found in any isolate. It was concluded that shiga toxin produced by E.coli exists in local cheeses and can pose risks to the human health in this region.