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Polymerase chain reaction screening for integrons can be used to complement resistance surveillance programs
Louisa A Jones1, Christopher J McIver, William D Rawlinson
1Virology Division, Department of Microbiology, SEALS, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales.
Communicable Diseases Intelligence Quarterly Report
|June 17, 2003
Summary
Integrons significantly contribute to antibiotic resistance in Gram-negative bacteria. PCR screening rapidly identifies these integrons and resistance gene cassettes, aiding treatment and surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Integrons are key genetic elements driving antibiotic resistance acquisition and spread in Gram-negative bacteria.
- Multi-antibiotic resistant Gram-negative bacteria pose a significant clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of integrons in multi-antibiotic resistant Gram-negative clinical isolates.
- To characterize the resistance gene cassettes within identified integrons.
- To assess the utility of PCR-based screening for identifying antibiotic resistance determinants.
Main Methods:
- A collection of 19 multi-antibiotic resistant Gram-negative clinical isolates was screened for integrons using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
- Resistance gene cassettes within positive integrons were amplified, sequenced, and characterized.
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed on the isolates.
Main Results:
- Integrons were detected in 47% (9/19) of the multi-antibiotic resistant Gram-negative clinical isolates.
- Sequencing identified specific resistance gene cassettes within the integrons.
- Observed antibiotic resistance phenotypes correlated with the identified gene cassettes.
Conclusions:
- PCR-based screening is a rapid and effective method for detecting integrons and identifying genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance in Gram-negative bacteria.
- This screening approach can aid in guiding clinical treatment decisions.
- The findings complement existing antibiotic resistance surveillance programs by providing molecular insights into resistance mechanisms and dissemination.