Establishment and Application of a Dual TaqMan Real-Time PCR Method for Proteus Mirabilis and Proteus Vulgaris

Proteus species are common opportunistic bacteria and foodborne pathogens. The proper detection of Proteus can effectively reduce the occurrence of food-borne public health events. Proteus mirabilis and Proteus vulgaris are the two most important pathogens in the Proteus genus. In this study, a dual TaqMan Real-Time PCR method was established to simultaneously detect and distinguish P mirabilis and P vulgaris in samples. The method exhibited good specificity, stability, and sensitivity. Specifically, the minimum detection concentrations of P. mirabilis and P vulgaris in pure bacterial cultures were 6.08 x 10(2) colony forming units (CPU)/ml and 4.46 x 10(2) CFU/ml, respectively. Additionally, the minimum detectable number of P mirabilis and P vulgaris in meat and milk was 10(3) CFU/g. In addition, the method can be used to distinguish between strains of P mirabilis and P vulgaris within two hours. Overall, it is a sensitive, easy-to-use, and practical test for the identification and classification of Proteus in food.