A new real-time PCR method for the identification of Salmonella Dublin

Aims: Development of a real-time PCR method for the specific detection of Salmonella Dublin.

Methods and results: The method was directed towards a Salm. Dublin-specific sequence of the vagC gene on the Salmonella virulence plasmid (pSDV) and towards Salmonella genus-specific sequence of the invA gene, serving as an internal amplification control. The method showed 100% inclusivity and exclusivity when tested on a strain collection containing 50 serotyped S . Dublin strains, 20 strains of other Salmonella serotypes and 10 non- Salmonella strains. The method also showed 100% inclusivity and 99% exclusivity in a collaborative study comprising eight laboratories, where each laboratory received ten different S . Dublin strains and 10 other Salmonella serotypes.

Conclusions: The method showed excellent performance both when validated in the laboratory and in the collaborative study.

Significance and impact of the study: Application of the present method in food control, for example at slaughterhouses, can improve the contamination control of this veterinary and clinically important Salmonella serotype.