Molecular Characterization of Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium Isolated from a Meat Source in Shahrekord Local Markets, Iran

Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) and E. faecium faecium) are commensals of the gastrointestinal biota humans animals considered opportunistic pathogens. This study aimed to improve knowledge about isolated from meat. To this end, 104 meat samples were collected sheep, goats, cattle, calves Shahrekord local markets in Iran. Presumptive colonies subjected identification tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) performed detect some virulence genes. Furthermore, randomly amplified polymorphic DNA typing repetitive element sequence-based PCR fingerprinting used show clonal relatedness isolates. The results revealed that enterococci present 90 out samples. Specifically, commonly species, with predominance faecalis, which exhibited high resistance streptomycin (95%) but susceptible vancomycin (85.6%). Virulence genes detection showed ccf cpd most prevalent both species. In addition, molecular method indicated isolates belonged separate subgroups. shows contamination products by potential pathogens resistant enterococci. There is a need implement regular surveillance monitor emergence antimicrobial-resistant food, particularly production.