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Transferability of MCR-1/2 Polymyxin Resistance: Complex Dissemination and Genetic Mechanism
Youjun Feng1,2
1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology , Zhejiang University School of Medicine , Hangzhou , Zhejiang 310058 , China.
Abstract:
Polymyxins, a group of cationic antimicrobial polypeptides, act as a last-resort defense against lethal infections by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. Recent emergence and fast spread of mobilized colistin resistance determinant mcr-1 argue the renewed interest of colistin in clinical therapies, threatening global public health and agriculture production. This mini-review aims to present an updated overview of mcr-1, covering its global dissemination, the diversity of its hosts/plasmid reservoirs, the complexity in the genetic environment adjacent to mcr-1, the appearance of new mcr-like genes, and the molecular mechanisms for mobilized colistin resistance determinant 1/2 (MCR-1/2).
Insights
The mobilized colistin resistance determinant mcr-1 is spreading globally, threatening infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. This review details mcr-1
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Polymyxins are critical last-resort antibiotics against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.
- The emergence and rapid spread of the mobilized colistin resistance determinant 1 (mcr-1) gene pose a significant threat to global health.
- Colistin resistance compromises treatment options for severe Gram-negative infections, impacting both clinical settings and agriculture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated overview of the mobilized colistin resistance determinant 1 (mcr-1).
- To cover the global dissemination, host range, and genetic environment of mcr-1.
- To discuss new mcr-like genes and the molecular mechanisms of MCR-1/2.
Main Methods:
- Mini-review synthesizing current scientific literature.
- Analysis of global surveillance data on mcr-1 prevalence.
- Examination of genetic elements associated with mcr-1 and related genes.
Main Results:
- MCR-1 has disseminated globally across diverse Gram-negative bacterial species.
- MCR-1 is frequently located on mobile genetic elements, particularly plasmids, facilitating its spread.
- New variants and related genes (e.g., mcr-2) are emerging, indicating ongoing evolution of colistin resistance.
Conclusions:
- The widespread dissemination of mcr-1 necessitates urgent global surveillance and control strategies.
- Understanding the genetic context of mcr-1 is crucial for developing effective interventions.
- Continued research into novel polymyxin derivatives and alternative therapies is essential.
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