Molecular Profiling of Escherichia coli Pathotypes Isolated from Lettuce Plant Soil in Kogi State

Molecular Profiling of Escherichia coli Pathotypes Isolated from Lettuce Plant Soil in Kogi State

ABSTRACT

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a widely consumed leafy green vegetable, and its safety is of paramount importance to public health. Soil is a potential reservoir for various pathogens, including Escherichia coli, which can contaminate lettuce plants and pose a risk to consumers. This study focuses on the molecular profiling of Escherichia coli pathotypes isolated from the soil of lettuce plants in Kogi State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from multiple lettuce farms in different regions of Kogi State. Isolation and identification of Escherichia coli were carried out using standard microbiological techniques. Molecular characterization involved polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting specific virulence genes associated with different pathotypes of Escherichia coli, including enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC), and enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC). Additionally, antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted to assess the resistance profiles of the isolates. Escherichia coli was successfully isolated from the soil samples collected. Molecular characterization revealed the presence of various pathotypes, with enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) being the most prevalent. Notably, certain isolates displayed a combination of virulence genes associated with multiple pathotypes. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated varying degrees of resistance, particularly to commonly used antibiotics. The detection of diverse Escherichia coli pathotypes in lettuce plant soil highlights the potential risks associated with consuming raw or minimally processed lettuce. The presence of multidrug-resistant strains further underscores the need for prudent antibiotic use in both agricultural and clinical settings. This study emphasizes the importance of implementing robust agricultural practices and monitoring strategies to mitigate the potential transmission of pathogenic E. coli through the lettuce supply chain. This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and molecular characteristics of Escherichia coli pathotypes in the soil of lettuce plants in Kogi State. These findings serve as a foundation for implementing targeted interventions to enhance the safety of lettuce production and consumption, thereby safeguarding public health.

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