Identification and Characterisation of Shiga Toxin-producing and Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli in Cattle Hides Sold in Markets in Bobo-dioulasso, Burkina Faso

Abstract

Background: In Burkina Faso, bovine hide, constitutes an important component of the diet and represents a valued source of animal protein. However, the slaughtering, processing, and marketing practices associated with this product often occur under inadequate hygienic conditions, thereby exposing it to significant microbiological contamination. Aims: This study aimed to identify and characterize Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) strains isolated from cattle hides sold in markets in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Study Design: This is a prospective descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: Study was performed at Laboratory of Applied Biological Sciences, New Dawn University and Molecular Biology Laboratory based at Muraz Center affiliated to Higher Institute of Health Sciences (INSSA), Nazi Boni University, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso in 2025. Methodology: Samples of beef hides were collected, and E. coli strains were isolated and identified using standard bacteriological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed according to the CASFM/EUCAST guidelines. Subsequently, genomic DNA was extracted using the Chelex method, and PCR amplification was carried out to detect the 16S rRNA gene, the intimin gene (eaeA), and virulence genes (stx1 and stx2). Results: A total of twenty E. coli strains were isolated. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed high resistance to cefoxitin (85%) and amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (70%), while significant susceptibility was observed with meropenem (95%), kanamycin (75%), and ciprofloxacin (65%). Molecular analyses showed a prevalence of 17.6% for eaeA and 5.9% for both stx1 and stx2. Conclusion: These findings highlight the presence of multi-resistant pathogenic E. coli strains on beef hides, emphasizing the need to strengthen microbiological surveillance, promote rational antibiotic use, and improve hygiene practices throughout the production and marketing chain.