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Dissemination of bacterial fluoroquinolone resistance in two multidrug-resistant enterobacteriaceae

Carina M Jung1

  • 1Environmental Laboratory, US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Miss., USA.

Journal of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology
|May 28, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Antimicrobial resistance is a global challenge. This study found that plasmid-transferring fluoroquinolone resistance genes spread differently between bacterial strains, highlighting difficulties in controlling antimicrobial resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Environmental Science
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat.
  • The spread of resistance genes, particularly through horizontal gene transfer, is difficult to control.
  • Understanding gene transfer mechanisms is crucial for managing AMR.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the conjugal horizontal gene transfer of plasmid-encoded fluoroquinolone resistance genes.
  • To compare gene transfer efficiency and transconjugant stability between clinical and environmental bacterial strains.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized two strains of Enterobacteriaceae: one clinical and one from a wastewater treatment plant.
  • Assessed conjugal transfer of fluoroquinolone resistance genes (aac(6')-Ib-cr).
  • Evaluated transconjugant stability and persistence.

Main Results:

  • Conjugation efficiency varied significantly between the tested strains.
  • Escherichia coli strain LR09 showed no conjugation, while Enterobacter aerogenes strain YS11 successfully conjugated with two E. coli strains.
  • Transconjugants exhibited differing stability and persistence.

Conclusions:

  • The study highlights the complex and variable nature of antimicrobial resistance gene spread.
  • Controlling AMR requires a comprehensive approach, including responsible antimicrobial disposal.
  • Treating antimicrobials as environmental contaminants is essential for a 'cradle to grave' management plan.

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