Complete Genome Sequence of KPC-3- and CTX-M-15-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Sequence Type 307

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Klebsiella pneumoniae sequence type (ST) 258 has been a predominant clone in Italy.
• Emergence of new sequence types (STs) in Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a significant public health threat due to antimicrobial resistance.
• ST307 is increasingly identified as a replacement for ST258.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the genetic makeup of a Klebsiella pneumoniae ST307 strain.
• To identify novel genetic features and antimicrobial resistance genes within ST307.
• To understand the molecular basis for the replacement of ST258 by ST307.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing of a Klebsiella pneumoniae ST307 isolate.
• Complete plasmid sequencing.
• Bioinformatic analysis of genomic data.

Main Results:

• The sequenced ST307 strain carried multiple antimicrobial resistance genes, includingblaKPC-3, blaCTX-M-15, blaOXA-1, aac(6')-Ib-cr, andqnrB1.
• New genetic features were identified in the ST307 genome and plasmids.
• These findings provide insights into the genetic basis of ST307's success.

Conclusions:

• Klebsiella pneumoniae ST307 is an emerging threat in Italy, carrying significant antimicrobial resistance genes.
• Genomic and plasmid sequencing are crucial for understanding the evolution and spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens.
• Further surveillance and research are needed to monitor and combat the rise of ST307.