Detection of markers of latent tuberculosis infection in ultrapasteurized milk produced in different countries
He genome of tuberculosis mycobacterium (MTB) was detected in ultrapasteurized milk from countries that have and do not have free status from bovine tuberculosis. Also cell wall deficient (CWD) MTB were isolated from all milk samples, that indicates latent tuberculosis infection in herds supplying milk to dairy enterprises. It was found that ultrasmall (less than 0.22 µm) thermally stable protective forms of MTB were present in milk. They can restore viability as CWD MBT and possibly play a role in the induction of oncogenesis and other pathological conditions. The existing criteria determining the status of herds do not allow the detection of latent tuberculosis infection, since persistent CWD (L-) forms of MBT do not cause the development of macroscopic changes and hypersensitivity to tuberculin. To identify the real situation in the herds, it is necessary to use PCR and to inoculate special nutrient media with blood and milk mixed with mycobacterial growth stimulants