Multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis on Yersinia pestis in Yunnan

Objective To identify genotypes of Yersinia pestis in Yunnan by using Multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA). Methods By using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and capillary electrophoresis, the genotypes of 158 Yersinia pestis strains isolated in Yunnan province were analyzed, and the data were processed with BioNumerics software. Results Five VNTR sites can be used to identify the genotypes of Yersinia pestis in Yunnan. The clustering of genotype showed that these strains could be classified into 2 groups, 3 clusters and 5 genotypes. The wild rodent strains belonged to cluster A, the stains isolated in Yulong belonged to cluster B and commensal rodent strains belonged to cluster C. The Results were consistent with traditional ecological classification. Conclusion The wild rodent strains, commensal rodent strains and Yulong strains isolated in Yunnan belonged to different gene clusters, but Yulong strains and wild rodent strains were in one group. The clustering analysis showed good relationship between the genotypes of Yersinia pestis and geographic location.