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Exogenously acquired 16S rRNA methyltransferases found in aminoglycoside-resistant pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria:

Jun-ichi Wachino1, Yoshichika Arakawa

  • 1Department of Bacteriology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.

Drug Resistance Updates : Reviews and Commentaries in Antimicrobial and Anticancer Chemotherapy
|June 8, 2012
PubMed

Insights

High-level aminoglycoside resistance is spreading globally due to 16S rRNA methyltransferase (16S-RMTase) genes. These genes, often on mobile elements, confer resistance by modifying bacterial ribosomes, posing a significant public health threat.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Exogenously acquired 16S rRNA methyltransferase (16S-RMTase) genes confer high-level resistance to aminoglycosides.
  • These genes are prevalent in Enterobacteriaceae and glucose-nonfermenting bacteria from human and animal sources.
  • 16S-RMTases modify bacterial 16S rRNA, preventing aminoglycoside binding and thus conferring resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and dissemination of 16S-RMTase genes.
  • To understand the mechanisms and genetic elements mediating the spread of aminoglycoside resistance.
  • To highlight the global health concern posed by 16S-RMTase-mediated resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Detection and characterization of 16S-RMTase genes in clinical and environmental isolates.
  • Analysis of mobile genetic elements (transposons, plasmids) carrying 16S-RMTase genes.
  • Comparative genomics to identify associated resistance mechanisms and pathogens.

Main Results:

  • 16S-RMTase genes are widely distributed globally in various bacterial species.
  • Genes are often located on mobile genetic elements facilitating rapid dissemination.
  • Co-occurrence of 16S-RMTase genes with other resistance determinants (e.g., NDM-1, CTX-M) is frequent.
  • Resistance has been reported in at least 30 countries, including in highly pathogenic bacteria like Salmonella spp.

Conclusions:

  • The worldwide spread of 16S-RMTases represents a serious global health concern.
  • Continuous monitoring and investigation are crucial to control the dissemination of these resistance genes.
  • Understanding the genetic basis of 16S-RMTase spread is essential for developing effective interventions.

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