Detection of the mcr-1 Gene in a Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolate from an Austrian Patient

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genetics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Colistin resistance mediated by the plasmid-encoded mcr-1 gene has emerged globally in Enterobacteriaceae.
• Enterobacteriaceae exhibit significant genetic heterogeneity and clonal diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first confirmed instance of the mcr-1 gene in a human Escherichia coli strain.
• To document the presence of colistin resistance in a clinical isolate from Austria.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and identification of Escherichia coli from a surveillance stool sample.
• Molecular confirmation of the presence of the mcr-1 gene.

Main Results:

• The mcr-1 gene, conferring colistin resistance, was identified in a human Escherichia coli isolate.
• This represents the first detection of mcr-1 in a human clinical sample in Austria.

Conclusions:

• The findings highlight the continued global spread of mcr-1 mediated colistin resistance.
• Surveillance for antimicrobial resistance genes in clinical settings is crucial, particularly in immunocompromised patient populations.