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Mobile genetic elements and their contribution to the emergence of antimicrobial resistant Enterococcus faecalis and

K Hegstad1, T Mikalsen, T M Coque

  • 1Reference Centre for Detection of Antimicrobial Resistance, Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital of North-Norway. Kristin.Hegstad@uit.no

Clinical Microbiology and Infection : the Official Publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
|June 24, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Mobile genetic elements (MGEs) drive antimicrobial resistance spread in enterococci. Understanding MGEs is crucial for combating resistance in hospitals and preventing transfer to other bacteria.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Mobile genetic elements (MGEs), such as plasmids and transposons, are key drivers of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in *Enterococcus faecalis* and *Enterococcus faecium*.
  • These enterococcal MGEs can transfer resistance genes to other bacteria, including pathogens like *Staphylococcus aureus*.
  • Current knowledge regarding the prevalence, distribution, and genetic makeup of specific MGEs in enterococcal populations is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • This review focuses on recent advancements in detecting MGEs in clinically relevant enterococci.
  • It examines the role of MGEs in the dissemination and persistence of antimicrobial resistance.
  • The review aims to highlight the importance of MGEs in the context of enterococcal infections.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent scientific literature on MGEs in enterococci.
  • Analysis of studies focusing on molecular epidemiology and detection methods for MGEs.
  • Examination of data on the genetic content and transfer capabilities of enterococcal MGEs.

Main Results:

  • MGEs are critical for the spread and maintenance of antimicrobial resistance in *Enterococcus* species.
  • Enterococcal MGEs contribute to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains.
  • Limited standardized methods hinder comprehensive molecular epidemiological studies of enterococcal MGEs.

Conclusions:

  • Further research and standardized methods are needed to fully understand MGEs in enterococci.
  • Effective strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance must consider the role of MGEs.
  • Controlling MGEs is essential for preventing the spread of resistance in healthcare settings.

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