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Organization of Escherichia coliO157 O Antigen Gene Cluster and Identification of Its Specific Genes

Authors :
Wang, Lei
Reeves, Peter R.
Source :
Infection and Immunity; August 1998, Vol. 66 Issue: 8 p3545-3551, 7p
Publication Year :
1998

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe O157:H7 clone of Escherichia coli, which causes major, often prolonged outbreaks of gastroenteritis with hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) such as those in Japan, Scotland, and the United States recently, is thought to be resident normally in cattle or other domestic animals. This clone is of major significance for public health and the food industry. We have developed a fast method for sequencing a given O antigen gene cluster and applied it to O157. The O157 O antigen gene cluster is 14 kb in length, comprising 12 genes and a remnant H-repeat unit. Based on sequence similarity, we have identified all the necessary O antigen genes, including five sugar biosynthetic pathway genes, four transferase genes, the O unit flippase gene, and the O antigen polymerase gene. By PCR testing against all 166 E. coliO serogroups and a range of gram-negative bacterial strains, including some that cross-react serologically with E. coliO157 antisera, we have found that certain O antigen genes are highly specific to O157 E. coli. This work provides the basis for a sensitive test for rapid detection of O157 E. coli. This is important both for decisions on patient care, since early treatment may reduce the risk of life-threatening complications, and for detection of sources of contamination. The method for fast sequencing of O antigen gene clusters plus an ability to predict which genes will be O antigen specific will enable PCR tests to be developed as needed for other clones of E. colior, once flanking genes are identified, clones of any gram-negative bacterium.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00199567 and 10985522
Volume :
66
Issue :
8
Database :
Supplemental Index
Journal :
Infection and Immunity
Publication Type :
Periodical
Accession number :
ejs57552461
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1128/IAI.66.8.3545-3551.1998