Evaluation of a Phenotypic MicroArray (BIOLOG) for characterisation of bovine reproductive Campylobacter fetus subspecies and other Campylobacter-like isolates by comparison with standard phenotypic, PCR and 16S rDNA sequencing

Distinguishing between Campylobacter fetus subsp venerealis (Cfv) and its close relative Campylobacter fetus subsp fetus (Cff) is essential due to differences in disease aetiology, epidemiology and clinical significance. It is advisable that all Campylobacter-like organisms isolated from the bovine prepuce be identified. Recent reports indicate that reliance on PCR alone can lead to false-negative and -positive results. Due to variance, glycine intolerance to screen for Cfv is unreliable. H2S production for differentiation of Cfv biovars intermedius (Cfvi) and venerealis (Cfvv) is insensitive. The need to uncover reliable unique assays for differentiation is clear. The BIOLOG PM is a user-friendly and powerful tool providing vast quantities of phenotypic data for identifying additional biochemical assays, expanding phenotypic characterisation and improving growth, transport and enrichment procedures.