Mawj Z. Mohammed
Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology for postgraduate studies, University of Baghdad, Iraq
Wasan A. Garbi
Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology for postgraduate studies, Baghdad University, Iraq
ABSTRACT
Background: Listeria monocytogenes is a gram-positive, facultative intracellular bacterium responsible for listeriosis, a severe infection affecting humans and animals. Listeriosis predominantly impacts immunosuppressed individuals, newborns, and the elderly, causing septicemia, meningitis, encephalitis, spontaneous abortions, and, in severe cases, death. Objective: This study aimed to detect virulence genes (hly and prf) in Listeria monocytogenes isolated from children and pregnant women in hospitals in Baghdad. Methods: The study focused on molecular detection of key virulence genes associated with Listeria monocytogenes pathogenicity, emphasizing their diagnostic significance in high-risk populations, including pregnant women and children.
Keywords: Virulence Genes, Listeria Monocytogenes, Children, Pregnant Women.
