Content
Skip to Main ContentAccessibility Help
Science

Montreal team unlocks genetic code of C. difficile

Researchers successfully sequence the genome of virulent strain of C. difficile responsible for outbreaks in Quebec. Discovery may make it easier to detect, prevent and treat the disease, scientists say.
CBC News ·

Researchers in Montreal say they've cracked the genetic code of a strain of C. difficile that has been causing severe diarrhea outbreaks in Quebec.

The strain, responsible for infections at hospitals and nursing homes in Quebec, is similar to others found in the U.S. and Europe, the researchers said.

Symptoms include severe diarrhea, fever and abdominal pain.

Clostridium difficile

  • Also known as C. difficile.
  • Can live on surfaces for a long time.
  • Is resistant to most antibiotics.
  • Can be spread through human contact.
  • Causes severe diarrhea and fever.
  • In serious cases, patients are forced to have their bowels or intestines removed.
  • Some patients may die as a result of infection.

    		•
    A virulent strain of C. difficile was blamed directly or indirectly for more than 200 deaths in hospitals in Montreal and Sherbrooke, Que., in the first six months of 2004.

    Scientists at McGill University, Génome Québec Innovation Centre, McGill University Health Centre and Jewish General Hospital say they have successfully sequenced the genome of the virulent strain.

    The researchers believe the discovery will make it easier to detect, prevent and treat the disease.

    The team will begin by searching for antibiotic resistance genes and more information on the toxins produced.

    The Quebec strain is resistant to a group of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones, which may have contributed to its spread throughout the province, the researchers said.

    CBC's Journalistic Standards and Practices|About CBC News
    Corrections and clarifications|Submit a news tip|