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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
06:34
Identification of Rare Bacterial Pathogens by 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing and MALDI-TOF MS
Published on: July 11, 2016
16S rRNA methylase-producing, gram-negative pathogens, Japan
Kunikazu Yamane1, Jun-ichi Wachino, Satowa Suzuki
1National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|June 8, 2007
Summary
Pan-aminoglycoside-resistant bacteria producing 16S rRNA methylase genes were found sparsely but diffusely across Japan. This study investigated the isolation frequency of these resistant gram-negative pathogens in clinical settings.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- The emergence of antimicrobial resistance poses a significant threat to public health.
- Gram-negative bacteria producing 16S rRNA methylases confer resistance to aminoglycosides, a critical class of antibiotics.
- Understanding the prevalence of these resistant strains is crucial for effective infection control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the isolation frequency of 16S rRNA methylase-producing, gram-negative pathogenic bacteria in Japan.
- To assess the distribution of pan-aminoglycoside-resistant microbes across Japanese hospitals.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 87,626 clinical isolates from 169 hospitals in Japan.
- Identification of strains harboring 16S rRNA methylase genes.
Main Results:
- Twenty-six strains carrying 16S rRNA methylase genes were identified.
- These resistant strains were isolated from 16 different hospitals.
- The findings indicate a sparse yet widespread presence of these resistant bacteria.
Conclusions:
- 16S rRNA methylase-producing gram-negative bacteria are present in Japanese clinical settings.
- The observed distribution suggests a diffuse spread of pan-aminoglycoside resistance.
- Continued surveillance is necessary to monitor and control the spread of these resistant pathogens.
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