Complete Genome Sequence of a CTX-M-15-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Outbreak Strain from Multilocus Sequence Type

Laura Becker1, Boyke Bunk, Christoph Eller1

  • 1Robert Koch Institute, FG13 Division of Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances, Department of Infectious Diseases, Wernigerode Branch, Wernigerode, Germany.

Genome Announcements
|July 11, 2015
PubMed

Insights

We sequenced the genome of a multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strain responsible for a 2011 neonatal ward outbreak. This analysis provides insights into the genetic makeup of this significant public health threat.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Neonatal wards are vulnerable to hospital-acquired infections.
  • Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a significant threat to vulnerable populations.
  • Outbreaks of MDR pathogens necessitate rapid genomic investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To perform whole-genome sequencing of a multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strain.
  • To characterize the genome of a strain that caused a neonatal ward outbreak in 2011.
  • To provide genomic data for understanding the spread and evolution of MDR Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of the Klebsiella pneumoniae isolate.
  • Bioinformatic analysis of the resulting genome sequence.
  • Characterization of chromosomal and plasmid DNA.

Main Results:

  • The complete genome sequence of the multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strain was determined.
  • The genome comprises a single chromosome of 5,278 kb.
  • Three plasmids were identified with sizes of 362 kb, 5 kb, and 4 kb.

Conclusions:

  • The genome sequence provides a valuable resource for studying the genetic basis of multidrug resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae.
  • Understanding the genomic structure aids in tracking and controlling outbreaks of this pathogen.
  • This data can inform future strategies for combating antimicrobial resistance in healthcare settings.

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