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ICESpy009, a Conjugative Genetic Element Carrying mef(E) in Streptococcus pyogenes.

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Macrolide resistance in Streptococcus pyogenes is rare but linked to the mega element. Researchers discovered a novel mobile genetic element, ICESpy009, carrying mega and capable of transferring resistance between bacteria.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Macrolide resistance, mediated by the mega element (mef(E)/mel), is prevalent in Streptococcus pneumoniae but uncommon in Streptococcus pyogenes.
  • Previous findings in S. pyogenes indicated mega was part of the Tn2009 composite genetic element, conferring erythromycin and tetracycline resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the genetic context of the mega element in S. pyogenes isolates lacking other resistance determinants.
  • To characterize a novel integrative and conjugative element (ICE) carrying mega in S. pyogenes.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of an S. pyogenes isolate (MB56Spyo009) to identify the genetic element carrying mega.
  • Characterization of the novel ICE, including its size, open reading frames (ORFs), and integration site.
  • PCR mapping to detect similar ICEs in other isolates and identify their integration sites.
  • Conjugation experiments to assess the transferability of macrolide resistance.

Main Results:

  • Identification of a novel 55 kb composite ICE, designated ICESpy009, belonging to the ICESa2603 family, carrying the mega element.
  • ICESpy009 was found integrated into the hylA gene, a new integration site for this ICE family.
  • A novel cluster of accessory resistance genes was identified within the mega-enclosing region of ICESpy009.
  • Similar ICEs were detected in five other isolates, with integration sites including hylA and the typical rplL site.
  • ICESpy009 demonstrated the ability to transfer macrolide resistance via conjugation to both S. pyogenes and S. pneumoniae.

Conclusions:

  • The study identified a novel ICE, ICESpy009, in S. pyogenes carrying the mega element and novel accessory resistance genes.
  • This ICE utilizes a new integration site (hylA) within S. pyogenes, although the typical rplL site was also observed.
  • The findings provide the first evidence of mega's transferability from S. pyogenes, highlighting a potential mechanism for the spread of macrolide resistance.