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Genome evolution and plasticity of Serratia marcescens, an important multidrug-resistant nosocomial pathogen

Atsushi Iguchi1, Yutaka Nagaya2, Elizabeth Pradel3

  • 1Interdisciplinary Research Organization, University of Miyazaki, JapanPresent address: Department of Animal and Grassland Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Japan.

Genome Biology and Evolution
|July 30, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Serratia marcescens, a multidrug-resistant pathogen, shows significant genetic diversity. Its genome sequencing reveals key virulence and resistance genes, offering insights into emerging infectious threats.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Pathogen Research

Background:

  • Serratia marcescens is a significant nosocomial pathogen causing urinary tract and bloodstream infections.
  • Multidrug-resistant strains producing extended-spectrum or metallo beta-lactamases are a global public health concern.
  • The species naturally inhabits diverse environmental niches, infecting plants and animals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the complete genome sequences of a multidrug-resistant clinical isolate (SM39) and an insect isolate (Db11) of Serratia marcescens.
  • To conduct comparative genomic analyses to understand the core genome, metabolic capacity, virulence, and multidrug resistance of S. marcescens.
  • To identify genetic factors contributing to the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of two S. marcescens strains (SM39 and Db11).
  • Comparative genomic analysis of S. marcescens strains and other Serratia species.
  • Plasmid analysis to identify genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance.

Main Results:

  • Remarkable intraspecies genetic diversity in S. marcescens, including sequence variation and genome flexibility.
  • Identification of approximately 3,000 core genes characterizing the Serratia genus.
  • Discovery of virulence and antibiotic resistance genes in strain SM39, including metallo beta-lactamase on plasmid pSMC1, which is related to Pseudomonas plasmids.

Conclusions:

  • The genetic diversity of S. marcescens may reflect its adaptation to various ecological niches.
  • The study provides a foundation for future research on S. marcescens.
  • Genomic insights into multidrug resistance mechanisms are crucial for combating emerging infectious diseases.
Keywords:
Serratia marcescensgenome plasticitymultidrug resistancevirulence

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