Isolation of Listeria monocytogenes of Karun River (Enviromental Sources Rural and Urban) by Culture and PCR Assay

Background: Listeria monocytogenes is a facultative intracellular pathogen thought to be widely distributed in the environment. Listeriolysin O (LLO) and internalin A are two major pathogenesis factors in this bacterium. Objectives: The purpose of this research was to isolate of Listeria from different parts of the Karun river in Iran. The bacteria were identified based on cultural characteristics, biochemical tests and by PCR assay. Materials and Methods: A total of 150 water samples from Karun river (rural and urban environment) were collected. The bacteria were identified based on cultural characteristics, biochemical tests and by PCR assay. Results: From total 150 samples, twenty L. monocytogenes were isolated and identified and amplification of two pathogenicity genes: hlyA and inlA in twenty L. monocytogenes were positive. Conclusions: Detection of Listeria monocytogenes with hlyA and inlA genes suggest that these strains may have the potential to invade host cells, and consumption of water contaminated with L. monocytogenes, can cause human disease.