The main objective

The purpose of this research is to obtain a high-quality diagnosis instrument, based on the multiplex real-time PCR technique, in order to be able to detect and quantify Salmonella spp, isolated or in combination with other microbiological risks in various food products, such as Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli O157 si Listeria monocytogenes. Such a technique will favour the orientation of the investigation in order to limit the number of tests and will increase the economic efficiency of the producers at the same time.

Project objectives

• - validation of the PCR conditions for the unique detection of Salmonella, E.coli O157:H7, Corynebacterium spp. and Listeria monocytogenes, starting from collection sources and food substrates that have been experimentally contaminated. Optimal specific conditions should be established (primers, DNA probes, reaction cycles, etc);
• - achievement and validation of an internal control useful for the quantitative detection through real-time PCR of the above mentioned bacteria;
• - establishing possible reaction inhibitors for the validated methods of detection through real-time PCR of the four pathogens;
• - conceiving a technique for the simultaneous quantitative detection through multiplex real-time PCR for bacteria, taking into account the practical necessity of achieving the detection as fast and at low cost as possible of microbiological risks in food products;
• - validation of the usage technologies for these multiplex real-time PCR as far as specificity, sensitivity, reproducibility and robustness are concerned, in order to be used during the implementation of self-control measures in the food industry.
• - Objectives, activities and their degree of achievement

• 2007
• 2008
• 2009

Estimated advantages

Advanced research will help solve some complex problems related to the guarantee of consumers' health. Frontier studies will also be approached, which require profound knowledge of molecular biology, microbiology and food safety. Investments in food safety research will reduce industry costs as well as health system related expenses, while increasing producers' value on the international market.

This research will enlarge the knowledge background and increase the research capacity of the Faculty of veterinary medicine of Iasi, with favourable effects on the international competition and the development of complementary interests shared with other research laboratories.

By means of the international exchange of information and the experience acquired, real time PCR methods will be validated and will become a standard for Europe as well.

The validation of the research results as well as the sessions of training scheduled in alimentary microbiology laboratory of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Liege (Belgium) abroad will increase our international renown and contribution, especially as far as our young researchers involved in this project are concerned.

Project publicity and result dissemination

• - organizing round table;
• - participating in scientific seminars and congresses;
• - publishing scientific articles in magazines belonging to the up-to-date scientific flux;
• - licensing of the multiplex real-time PCR method;
• - the candidates for doctor's degree who are involved in this project will write diploma papers that will include partial data obtained from the project.
• Published articles or awaiting publication

• 2009 — 2010

Results

2007 Report
2008 Report
2009 Report
2010 Report

Young researchers

• 2007
• 2008
• 2009
• 2010

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