Abstract

Background:
This study characterizes Escherichia coli and Campylobacter jejuni isolated from the fecal samples of captive avian species.

Aim:
This study aimed to assess their molecular and genetic profiles, including virulence and antimicrobial resistance traits.

Methods:
Fecal samples were collected from peafowl, pheasant, chukar partridge, turkey, and quail reared in avian farms in Kasur, Pakistan. Bacterial species were isolated and identified using selective culture techniques and biochemical tests. DNA was extracted through the phenol-chloroform method, and the 16S rRNA gene was amplified using species-specific primers for molecular identification. Sanger sequencing and Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) analysis were employed for species confirmation and submission of sequences to NCBI. Virulence genes (flaA, cdtA, cdtB, and dnaJ for C. jejuni; fimA, eae, stx1, and stx2 for E. coli) and antimicrobial resistance genes (tet(O) and blaOXA-61 for C. jejuni; tetA, tetB, blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCMY for E. coli) were detected using PCR.

Results:
The 16S rRNA gene sequences confirmed the identity of E. coli and C. jejuni. Virulence genes were widespread in C. jejuni (cdtA and cdtB: 100%; flaA: 80%; dnaJ: 40%) and E. coli (fimA: 100%; eae 20%; stx1/stx2 10%). Antimicrobial resistance genes were highly prevalent in both species.
According to PCR results all the examined E. coli isolates had both beta lactam and (tetA, tetB) resistance genes. The presence of virulence and resistance genes highlights the pathogenic potential of E. coli and C. jejuni in captive avian species, underscoring the importance of monitoring these pathogens in avian farms.

Conclusion:
The findings contribute to understand the role and molecular epidemiology of these bacterial species in public health.

Key words: Antimicrobial resistance; Pathogenic bacteria; Virulence genes; 16S rRNA.