Complete Genome Sequences of Four Isolates of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium with the vanA Gene and Two...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) poses a significant threat in healthcare settings.
• Emergence of resistance to last-resort antibiotics like daptomycin is a growing concern.
• Complete genome sequencing is crucial for understanding antimicrobial resistance mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present complete genome sequences of four Enterococcus faecium isolates.
• To investigate the genetic basis of resistance in VRE isolates.
• To identify mutations associated with vancomycin and daptomycin resistance.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing was performed using Oxford Nanopore and Illumina technologies.
• De novo and hybrid assembly methods were employed for sequence data.
• Bioinformatic analysis was used to identify resistance-associated mutations.

Main Results:

• Complete genome sequences of four Enterococcus faecium isolates were obtained.
• All isolates were resistant to vancomycin.
• Two specific mutations known to confer daptomycin resistance were identified in the isolates.

Conclusions:

• The study provides valuable genomic data for VRE isolates with dual resistance.
• Identified mutations offer insights into daptomycin resistance mechanisms in Enterococcus faecium.
• This information can aid in the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies against resistant VRE infections.