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Updated: Dec 13, 2025
Biosensor for Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Staphylococcus Bacteria
Published on: May 8, 2013
DNA microarray-based characterization and antimicrobial resistance phenotypes of clinical MRSA strains from animal
Sarah Schmitt1, Roger Stephan1, Ella Huebschke1
1Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
Background:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a leading cause of severe infections in humans and animals worldwide. Studies elucidating the population structure, staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec types, resistance phenotypes, and virulence gene profiles of animal-associated MRSA are needed to understand spread and transmission.
Objectives:
The objective of this study was to determine 1) clonal complexes and spa types, 2) resistance phenotypes, and 3) virulence/resistance gene profiles of MRSA isolated from animals in Switzerland.
Methods:
We analyzed 31 presumptive MRSA isolates collected from clinical infections in horses, dogs, cattle, sheep, and pigs, which had tested positive in the Staphaurex Latex Agglutination Test. The isolates were characterized by spa typing and DNA microarray profiling. In addition, we performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the VITEK 2 Compact system.
Results:
Characterization of the 31 presumptive MRSA isolates revealed 3 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates, which were able to grow on MRSA2 Brilliance agar. Of the 28 MRSA isolates, the majority was assigned to CC398 (86%), but CC8 (11%) and CC1 (4%) were also detected. The predominant spa type was t011 (n = 23), followed by t009 (n = 2), t034 (n = 1), t008 (n = 1), and t127 (n = 1).
Conclusions:
The results of this study extend the current body of knowledge on the population structure, resistance phenotypes, and virulence and resistance gene profiles of MRSA from livestock and companion animals.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Swiss animals is primarily CC398, with t011 as the dominant spa type. This study details MRSA
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Antimicrobial Resistance
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant global threat in both human and animal health.
- Understanding the genetic and phenotypic characteristics of animal-associated MRSA is crucial for controlling its spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize MRSA isolates from animals in Switzerland.
- To determine clonal complexes, spa types, and antimicrobial resistance profiles.
- To investigate virulence and resistance gene profiles of animal MRSA.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 31 presumptive MRSA isolates from various animal species using Staphaurex Latex Agglutination Test.
- spa typing and DNA microarray profiling for genetic characterization.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing performed with the VITEK 2 Compact system.
Main Results:
- Three methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates were identified among the presumptive MRSA.
- The majority of the 28 confirmed MRSA isolates belonged to CC398 (86%), with CC8 (11%) and CC1 (4%) also detected.
- The predominant spa type was t011 (n=23), followed by t009, t034, t008, and t127.
Conclusions:
- This study provides valuable insights into the population structure of MRSA in Swiss animals.
- Findings contribute to the understanding of resistance and virulence gene profiles in livestock and companion animals.
- The data aids in comprehending MRSA transmission dynamics between animals and potentially humans.
