Sample preparation methods and molecular based detection for the rapid isolation and identification of Listeria monocytogenes in food samples

Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium responsible for listeriosis, a food-borne disease, which may result in severe illness and possible death. The importance of L. monocytogenes as a food-borne pathogen has been recognized since the 1980's when a correlation between the cunsumption of contaminated foodstuffs and human listeriosis outbreaks was observed. Listeriosis occurs with the ingestion of contaminated foods. The aim of this study involved developing DNA based methods to aid the food industry for the fast detection of L. monocytogenes in food products. Therefore assays were developed in such a way that they will have potential applications in the food idustry.