Molecular Identification of 16S rRNA and Some Virulence Genes From Aeromonas spp. in Nasser Lake Fish Species, Aswan, Egypt

Abstract

F RESHWATER fish consider a major cheap source of animal protein in different parts of the world. In upper Egypt, Lake Nasser is the main source of fish production for human consumption. Fish can also be a cause of foodborne pathogens, such as the Aeromonas species, that pose a significant risk to public health. A total of 180 freshwater fish samples were represented, Nile tilapia, Nile perch, Pike perch, African sharp tooth catfish, Elephant-snout, and Fillet tilapia (30 of each) were randomly selected from Lake Nasser in Aswan province. Bacteriological examination reveals 117 (65%) occurrence of Aeromonas species. In isolated 60 Aeromonas species samples10 from each fish species, 16S rRNA genes were found with a percentage of 96.67% by using PCR. In Egypt and around the globe, the Aeromonas species has been linked to several foodborne outbreaks brought on by the consumption of raw fermented fish which having many sever virulence gene . Additionally, two genes; Aerolysin (aer) and cytotoxic enterotoxin (act) genes were selected to be screened by PCR. Results were 51.7% and 27.6%, respectively. So hygienic precautions must be taken to eradicate Nasser Lake Fish species contaminated with Aeromonas species. Molecular investigating of some virulence genes of Aeromonas spp. in Lake Nasser from different fish species was the aim of the present study.