Distribution and genetic characterization of Mycobacterium chelonae in laboratory zebrafish Danio rerio.

ABSTRACT: During routine screening of zebrafish at a research facility, histological changes consistent with mycobacteriosis were observed, prompting an investigation to determine the background prevalence and distribution of Mycobacterium species throughout the facility. Infection status was evaluated in 240 zebrafish representing 9 genetic lines, using histology, culture and PCR. Environmental sources were also tested for the presence of mycobacteria. Prevalence in zebrafish by culture and PCR was 10% (24/240), 21 of which were TU line fish. All isolates from fish were identified as M. chelonae by hsp65 DNA sequencing; subsequent DNA fingerprinting delineated 3 strains, designated H1E1 (1/24), H1E2 (22/24), and H1E3 (1/24). From external sources, tank or tubing surface biofilms were positive by cu

SUBMITTER: Whipps CM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2751615 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature