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Lysogenic transfer of mef(A) and tet(O) genes carried by Phim46.1 among group A streptococci

Maria Chiara Di Luca1, Stefania D'Ercole, Dezemona Petrelli

  • 1School of Pharmacy, Microbiology Unit, University of Camerino, I-62032 Camerino, MC, Italy.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy
|July 21, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can acquire antibiotic resistance genes via bacteriophage transduction. Ex vivo experiments showed 69% of susceptible GAS strains gained erythromycin and tetracycline resistance from phage Φm46.1.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Antibiotic resistance in Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a growing public health concern.
  • Bacteriophages are known to play a role in horizontal gene transfer, including antibiotic resistance genes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential for ex vivo lysogenic transfer of antibiotic resistance genes among GAS.
  • To determine the efficiency and any barriers to phage-mediated gene transfer in GAS.

Main Methods:

  • Exposure of antibiotic-susceptible GAS strains to purified supernatants containing bacteriophage Φm46.1 from a resistant strain.
  • Assessment of acquired erythromycin and tetracycline resistance in recipient GAS strains.
  • Analysis of emm-type influence on lysogenic transfer efficiency.

Main Results:

  • 69% of 42 susceptible GAS strains acquired erythromycin and tetracycline resistance.
  • Lysogenic transfer occurred efficiently, with no significant emm-type-dependent barrier observed.
  • emm12 strains were uniquely susceptible to the bacteriophage's lytic activity.

Conclusions:

  • Bacteriophage Φm46.1 can mediate efficient ex vivo lysogenic transfer of erythromycin and tetracycline resistance genes among GAS.
  • The findings highlight a potential mechanism for the dissemination of antibiotic resistance within GAS populations.
  • Further research is needed to understand the in vivo implications and the susceptibility of different GAS strains to phage-mediated gene transfer.

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