Abstract:
The present study aims to integrate the benefits of plaque assay using a novel
phage mix with phylogenetic and molecular analysis for detecting Pseudomonas
aeruginosa in water. Three phages were isolated and the transmission electron
microscope related their morphological resemblance to those of Siphoviridae
and Podoviridae families, while molecular analysis showed different cp-gene sizes.
The Phage mix was highly specific (86.0%), and data misleading didn’t exceed
14.0% compared to membrane filter assay (39.2%). Time elapsed for test completion
required 24 h. Identified P. aeruginosa were verified using 16S-rDNA. Nucleotide
sequence data for both phages and bacteria were submitted to the
NCBI GenBank database, USA and gained their accession numbers. Concluding
remarks highlight the potential of plaque assay as specific, simple and rapid
method. The study recommended future efforts to isolate and characterize new
phages for detecting other bacterial pathogens of public health concern to control
water pollution and maintain adequate hygiene.
