Genomic epidemiology of global VIM-producing Enterobacteriaceae

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• International data on the molecular epidemiology of Enterobacteriaceae producing VIM carbapenemases are scarce.
• Understanding the global spread of these antimicrobial resistance genes is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the molecular epidemiology and global distribution of VIM carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae.
• To identify specific integrons and bacterial clones associated with bla VIM genes.

Main Methods:

• Whole genome sequencing (WGS) using short-read Illumina technology was performed on 89 VIM-producing clinical Enterobacteriaceae isolates collected globally between 2008 and 2014.
• Analysis focused on identifying different integrons, bla VIM gene varieties, species, and clonal complexes.

Main Results:

• VIM-producing isolates were primarily from Europe, with 11 varieties of VIM carbapenemases found within 21 different integrons.
• Certain integrons (e.g., In 87, In 624) were country-specific, while others (e.g., In 110, In 1209) showed global dissemination across various Enterobacteriaceae species.
• Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common species, with CC147 from Greece being the most prevalent clone. The Enterobacter cloacae complex was the second most common, with specific clonal complexes identified in different regions.

Conclusions:

• This study underscores the importance of robust surveillance programs employing advanced molecular techniques.
• Such programs are vital for gaining insights into the characteristics and worldwide distribution of Enterobacteriaceae carrying bla VIM genes.
• Molecular epidemiology data are essential for informing strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.