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Integrons in Enterobacteriaceae: diversity, distribution and epidemiology
Megha Kaushik1, Sanjay Kumar1, Rajeev Kumar Kapoor1
1Medical Microbiology and Bioprocess Technology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India.
International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents
|October 18, 2017
Summary
Integrons, key systems for gene capture, are increasingly linked to multidrug resistance in enteric bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. Understanding their spread is crucial for combating global antibiotic resistance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Integrons are mobile genetic elements facilitating gene acquisition and expression.
- These systems are widespread in enteric bacteria globally, carrying diverse gene cassettes.
- Integron-associated multidrug resistance in Enterobacteriaceae shows rapid epidemiological evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the distribution, versatility, spread, and global trends of integrons in key Enterobacteriaceae genera.
- To highlight the role of integrons in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance traits.
- To emphasize the clinical relevance of integron-associated resistance for infection control.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on integrons in Enterobacteriaceae.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on integron incidence and gene cassette evolution.
- Examination of genus-specific trends in antibiotic resistance associated with integrons.
Main Results:
- Integron incidence in enteric bacteria has significantly increased over the past two decades.
- Evolution of multiple gene cassettes and novel gene arrangements, including complex chromosomal integrons.
- Global distribution and spread of integrons among Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Shigella, and Salmonella.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of integrons is essential for controlling the global spread of antibiotic resistance.
- Integrons play a critical role in the emergence and dissemination of multidrug resistance in clinically important enteric bacteria.
- Genus-specific insights into integron-associated resistance are vital for effective public health strategies.