Beta-glucuronidase activity of Vero cytotoxin-producing strains of Escherichia coli, including serogroup 0157, isolated in the United Kingdom |
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Authors: | Sylvia M. Scotland T. Cheasty A. Thomas B. Rowe |
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Affiliation: | Division of Enteric Pathogens, Central Public Health Laboratory, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT, UK |
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Abstract: | One hundred and twenty Vero cytotoxin-producing (VT+) strains of Escherichia coli 0157 (of H type 7 or non-motile) isolated in the UK, failed to ferment sorbitol after 24 h or to hydrolyse 4-methylumbelliferyl-beta- d -glucuronide (MUG). This combination of properties was not found in 167 of 169 other E. coli strains, including VT+strains of other serogroups and VT-strains of serogroup 0157. As the two exceptions were rare VT-strains of serotype 0157: H7, we conclude that, although biochemical tests can aid the isolation of VT+0157 strains, confirmation of VT production is necessary. |
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