Characterization of isolates of Listeria monocytogenes from sludge using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and virulence assays.

AIMS To study the diversity and virulence of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from sludge. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 60 isolates of L. monocytogenes from sludge were characterized by serotyping, PFGE typing and using in vitro and in vivo virulence assays. The PFGE patterns were compared with those of food and human isolates to determine whether specific group clones are associated with environmental samples. The 60 isolates gave 44 different combined ApaI/AscI PFGE patterns. The PFGE patterns of most isolates were similar or very similar to those of epidemic isolates. The majority (93%) of isolates were found to be virulent by plaque-forming assay and by mouse virulence assay. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that L. monocytogenes strains found in non-sanitized sludge are virulent and represent a potential health hazard. Although no case of listeriosis related to sludge spread onto agricultural land has been reported, particular attention to this pathogen is needed. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This is the first study dealing with the characterization of L. monocytogenes isolates from non-sanitized sludge samples by molecular typing methods and in vitro and in vivo virulence assays. Our findings provide relevant information for evaluating the health risks associated with spreading sludge onto agricultural land.