Whole genome-based characterization of Listeria monocytogenes Isolates

The objectives of this study were to: (1) use core genome-SNP analysis to determine the genetic relatedness of the most common L. monocytogenes strains in South Africa; (2) assess the genetic basis of the resistance, stress tolerance, genomic localization of the resistance genes in L. monocytogenes isolated from food products in South Africa; and (3) identify key genomic features contributing to virulence potential of L. monocytogenes strains in the host.