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Updated: Feb 3, 2026
Multiplex PCR Assay for Typing of Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome Mec Types I to V in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Published on: September 5, 2013
Novel SCCmec type XII methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates identified from a swine production and
Wenyuan Zhou1, Xinhui Li2, Lei Shi3
1School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China.
Abstract:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been a major public health concern. In this study, a total of 1485 samples from three swine farms, one slaughterhouse and one indoor market in Xiamen, China were collected in 2015, and the prevalence and profiles of MRSA were assessed. All the MRSA isolates were characterized by molecular typing, antibiotic susceptibility, coagulation activity, as well as PCR screening for 38 antibiotic resistance genes, two mobile genetic elements (lsa(E)-containing multiresistance gene cluster and Tn558), and 36 virulence genes. During the study, 54 of 1485 (3.6%) samples from the swine production, processing and retail chain were found positive for MRSA. A relatively rare SCCmecXII genotype was prevalent in swine farm (84.6%, 11/13) and slaughterhouse isolates (80.6%, 25/31), but absent in the market isolates (0%, 0/10). Notably, all staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) type XII MRSA isolates were resistant to at least 6 classes of antibiotics, carried two mobile genetic elements (lsa(E)-containing multiresistance gene cluster and Tn558) and harbored multiple virulence genes. These multidrug resistant MRSA isolates could also coagulate both bovine and caprine plasma. Our results on the SCCmecXII MRSA isolates, particularly their profiles of related genotypes, antibiotic resistance and virulence determinants, illustrated the evolvement of livestock-associated (LA)-MRSA in the swine production environment and spread along the processing chain. The dominance of the SCCmecXII in MRSA isolates found in this study, differed from previous reports from China, indicated potential contribution associated with the production process.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was found in 3.6% of samples across the swine supply chain in Xiamen. A rare SCCmecXII genotype MRSA, resistant to multiple antibiotics and carrying virulence genes, was dominant, indicating its evolution and spread.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant global public health threat.
- Livestock, particularly swine, are recognized reservoirs for MRSA transmission.
- Understanding MRSA prevalence and characteristics within food production chains is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and molecular characteristics of MRSA in the swine production, processing, and retail chain in Xiamen, China.
- To identify specific MRSA genotypes, antibiotic resistance profiles, and virulence factors.
- To assess the potential spread and evolution of livestock-associated (LA)-MRSA.
Main Methods:
- Collection of 1485 samples from swine farms, a slaughterhouse, and a market in Xiamen.
- Molecular typing (SCCmec) and PCR screening for antibiotic resistance genes, mobile genetic elements, and virulence genes.
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing and coagulation activity assays.
Main Results:
- MRSA was detected in 3.6% (54/1485) of samples.
- A rare SCCmecXII genotype was prevalent in swine farm (84.6%) and slaughterhouse (80.6%) isolates, but absent in market isolates.
- All SCCmecXII MRSA isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (≥6 classes), carried specific mobile genetic elements (lsa(E)-cluster, Tn558), and harbored multiple virulence genes.
Conclusions:
- The study identified the prevalence and characteristics of MRSA within the Xiamen swine supply chain.
- The dominance of SCCmecXII MRSA suggests its adaptation and spread within the livestock environment and processing chain.
- Findings highlight the evolving landscape of LA-MRSA and potential links to production processes, differing from previous Chinese reports.
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