Presence of virulence markers in environmental Vibrio vulnificus strains

Aims: This work aims to demonstrate the presence of several genes and factors associated with virulence in strains isolated from the environment at Pueblo Viejo Lagoon, State of Veracruz, Mexico. Methods and Results: In this study, we investigated the production of V. vulnificus virulence factors, as cytolysin (haemolysin), RTX toxin, metalloprotease, siderophores, capsular polysaccharide, adhesion structures (like type IV pili), and polar and lateral flagella, involved in swimming and swarming (or, at least, the presence of genes encoding some of them) in 40 strains of V. vulnificus isolated from water and food. The results indicate that strains of environmental origin possess potential virulence characteristics. Conclusions: Caution should be exercised when consuming raw shellfish (especially by those more susceptible risk groups). Significance and Impact of the Study: This is the first work focused on the evaluation of V. vulnificus virulence factors in Mexico.