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Identification of polysaccharide capsules among extensively drug-resistant genitourinary Haemophilus parainfluenzae

Aida González-Díaz1,2, Fe Tubau1,2, Miguel Pinto3

  • 1Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Universitat de Barcelona-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.

Scientific Reports
|March 16, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Extensively drug-resistant Haemophilus parainfluenzae strains possess a novel capsular operon. This discovery aids in understanding the pathogenicity and spread of these opportunistic multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Pathogen Discovery

Background:

  • Haemophilus parainfluenzae, a human commensal, is increasingly recognized as an opportunistic multidrug-resistant pathogen.
  • The emergence of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains necessitates understanding their genetic basis and virulence factors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize a novel capsular operon in XDR H. parainfluenzae clinical isolates.
  • To elucidate the genetic mechanisms underlying multidrug resistance in these isolates using whole-genome sequencing.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of clinical H. parainfluenzae isolates.
  • Phylogenetic analysis of genomic data.
  • Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for capsular structure visualization.

Main Results:

  • Identification of a complete capsular operon in H. parainfluenzae, homologous to that of H. influenzae.
  • Detailed characterization of resistance mechanisms against beta-lactams, quinolones, chloramphenicol, macrolides, and tetracycline.
  • Phylogenetic analysis revealed high genomic diversity and close relation to a known Swiss XDR strain, suggesting potential European spread.

Conclusions:

  • This study reports the first description of a capsular operon in H. parainfluenzae, a potential virulence determinant.
  • The identified capsular operon may contribute to the increased pathogenicity of XDR clinical isolates.
  • Phylogenetic findings suggest the possible dissemination of XDR-encapsulated H. parainfluenzae strains across Europe.

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