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Characterization of multidrug-resistant Proteus mirabilis isolated from chicken carcasses

Marcus Ho Yin Wong1, Hoi Ying Wan, Sheng Chen

  • 1Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR.

Foodborne Pathogens and Disease
|January 29, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Proteus mirabilis in chicken products show high antimicrobial resistance. Key resistance genes and mutations were identified, posing a public health concern.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Food Safety
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Proteus mirabilis is a common bacterium found in food products.
  • Antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens is a growing public health concern.
  • Understanding the genetic basis of resistance is crucial for effective control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the antimicrobial resistance patterns of Proteus mirabilis isolated from chicken.
  • To identify the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics associated with this resistance.
  • To assess the potential public health implications.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Proteus mirabilis from chicken products.
  • Detection of resistance genes including beta-lactamases (TEM-1, OXA-1), extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (CTX-M-9, CMY-2), and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes (qnrA, qnrD).
  • Identification of mutations in gyrA and parC genes and the SXT superintegron element.

Main Results:

  • High resistance rates observed for tetracycline (100%), sulfamethoxazole (80%), chloramphenicol (66%), and nalidixic acid (66%).
  • Prevalence of beta-lactamase genes (TEM-1, OXA-1, CTX-M-9, CMY-2) in resistant isolates.
  • Fluoroquinolone resistance linked to gyrA/parC mutations, PMQR genes (qnrA, qnrD), and the SXT superintegron.

Conclusions:

  • Proteus mirabilis from chicken products exhibit extensive antimicrobial resistance.
  • Specific genetic mechanisms contribute significantly to resistance phenotypes.
  • The widespread resistance highlights a potential threat to public health through the food chain.

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