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Plasmid-mediated Tet M in Haemophilus ducreyi
1Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle 98195.
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy
|September 1, 1989
Summary
A U.S. strain of Haemophilus ducreyi harbors a tetracycline resistance plasmid. This plasmid shows homology with the Tn916 transposon, indicating widespread resistance mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Haemophilus ducreyi is a bacterial pathogen causing chancroid.
- Antibiotic resistance in H. ducreyi is a growing public health concern.
- Plasmids and transposons are key genetic elements mediating antibiotic resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the genetic basis of tetracycline resistance in a U.S. isolate of Haemophilus ducreyi.
- To investigate the role of plasmids and transposons in tetracycline resistance.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of a tetracycline-resistant Haemophilus ducreyi strain.
- Plasmid DNA extraction and analysis.
- Hybridization studies using a Tet M probe and Tn916 transposon sequences.
Main Results:
- A 34-megadalton plasmid conferring tetracycline resistance was identified.
- The plasmid hybridized with the Tet M probe, indicating the presence of tetracycline resistance genes.
- The entire Tn916 transposon hybridized with multiple sites on the plasmid, suggesting significant homology.
Conclusions:
- The identified plasmid likely plays a crucial role in tetracycline resistance in this H. ducreyi strain.
- The homology with Tn916 suggests a mechanism for the acquisition and dissemination of tetracycline resistance.
- Further studies are warranted to understand the implications for treatment and control.