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Updated: Jan 4, 2026
Characterization of a Pathogenic Escherichia coli Strain Derived from Oreochromis spp. Farms Using Whole-Genome Sequencing
Published on: December 23, 2022
Avian-source mcr-1-positive Escherichia coli is phylogenetically diverse and shares virulence characteristics with E.
Xiangkai Zhuge1, Min Jiang2, Fang Tang2
1MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China; Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Center for Post-doctoral Studies of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Center for Post-doctoral Studies of Animal Husbandry, College of Animal Science & Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
Abstract:
Colisepticemia caused by bloodstream infection of the extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) has become a serious public health problem. The recent emergence of the colistin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, especially mcr-1-positive E. coli (MCRPEC) exerts great concern around the world. The molecular epidemiology and zoonosis risk of avian-origin MCRPEC are reported to be substantially lower. Here, we presented a system-wide analysis of emerging trends and zoonotic risk of MCRPEC recovered from avian colibacillosis in China. Our results showed the majority of avian-source MCRPEC isolates were classified as ExPECs. We also found that not only MCRPEC in phylogroups B2 and D, but also several E. coli populations in groups B1 and F possessed high virulence in the two models of avian colibacillosis and three rodent models for ExPEC-associated human infections. The high-virulent MCRPEC clones belong to ST131, as well as ST-types (such as ST48, ST117, ST162, ST501, ST648, and ST2085). Our data suggested the zoonotic risk of MCRPEC appeared to be a close association with ColV/ColBM type virulence plasmids. A comprehensive genomic analysis showed the overlapped of ColV/ColBM plasmids contents between MCRPEC isolates from humans and poultry. Identification of ColV/ColBM plasmids among human MCRPEC isolates revealed the potential transmission of avian-source mcr-1-positive ExPECs to humans. Moreover, the presence of ColV/ColBM plasmid-encoded virulence determinants, could be used as a predictive label for pathogenic MCRPEC. These findings highlighted avian-origin MCRPEC isolates could be recognized as a foodborne pathogen.
Insights
Emerging colistin-resistant E. coli (MCRPEC) from poultry show high virulence and zoonotic potential, linked to specific plasmids. Avian MCRPEC poses a foodborne threat, necessitating further investigation into transmission routes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Public Health
Background:
- Colisepticemia from extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) is a major health concern.
- The emergence of colistin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, particularly mcr-1-positive E. coli (MCRPEC), raises global alarm.
- Avian-origin MCRPEC is thought to have lower molecular epidemiology and zoonosis risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze emerging trends and zoonotic risk of MCRPEC from avian colibacillosis in China.
- To investigate the virulence and genetic characteristics of avian-source MCRPEC.
- To assess the potential transmission of avian MCRPEC to humans.
Main Methods:
- System-wide analysis of MCRPEC isolates from avian sources.
- Virulence assessment in avian and rodent infection models.
- Genomic analysis to identify virulence factors and plasmid content.
Main Results:
- Most avian MCRPEC isolates were classified as ExPECs.
- Highly virulent MCRPEC strains identified in phylogroups B1, B2, F, and D, including ST131 and other ST types.
- Zoonotic risk associated with ColV/ColBM plasmids, with overlapping plasmid content between human and poultry MCRPEC.
Conclusions:
- Avian-origin MCRPEC exhibits significant virulence and zoonotic potential.
- ColV/ColBM plasmids play a key role in the pathogenicity and transmission of MCRPEC.
- Avian-source MCRPEC can be considered a foodborne pathogen with potential for human transmission.
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