Khashaiar Mansouri - School of Veterinary, Islamic Azad University, Garmsar Branch, Garmsar, Iran
Nader Mosavari - Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran

Introduction and Objectives: Mycobacterium bovis is a major cause of zoonotic diseases. The present study was aimed to evaluate the potential role of cats and mice in the transmission of Mycobacterium in cow dairy herds. Materials and Methods: A total of 7 cats and 5 mice were screened from an animal husbandry. Gastric acids of captured cats were cultured on LJ (Löwenstein–Jensen). The liver, spleen, and lung of mice were cultured on LJ medium followed by sterilization. The acid-fast staining and also PCR were used for detection of Mycobacterium spp. Results: Five from 6 cats were positive by acid-fast staining. PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing methods were confirmed the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTB). Three out of 5 mice were positive by acid-fast staining. PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing methods were confirmed the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTB). Currently, we are conducting PCR-RFLP and RP Typing to identify this bacterium more precisely. Conclusion: We indicated that the mice and cats are potential source for Mycobacterium spp. Thus, they can infect dairy cattle farms.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex, Mycobacterium, PCR IS6110, 16S rRNA