Genotyping and macrolide-resistant mutation of Bordetella pertussis in East and South-East Asia

Kentaro Koide1, ShuMan Yao2, Chuen-Sheue Chiang2

  • 1Department of Bacteriology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.

Abstract

Insights

Macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis (MRBP) has spread from China to East and Southeast Asia. Continued surveillance for the A2047G mutation is crucial to prevent further dissemination of this emerging pathogen.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis (MRBP) has been increasingly prevalent in China since 2011.
  • Pertussis, caused by Bordetella pertussis, remains a significant public health concern globally.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the genetic makeup and macrolide resistance patterns of Bordetella pertussis circulating in East and Southeast Asia.
  • To determine the geographical distribution and genotypic characteristics of MRBP in the region.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 302 DNA samples from clinical specimens and isolates collected between 2010 and 2020 from Vietnam, Cambodia, Taiwan, and Japan.
  • Genotyping was performed using multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA).
  • Detection of the A2047G mutation in the B. pertussis 23S rRNA gene was conducted using real-time PCR; whole-genome sequencing was performed on two Taiwanese MRBP isolates.

Main Results:

  • The A2047G macrolide resistance mutation was identified in 18 isolates across Vietnam, Cambodia, Taiwan, and Japan.
  • The majority of resistant isolates (78%) exhibited MLVA genotypes MT104 and MT195, consistent with those previously reported in Chinese MRBP isolates.
  • Taiwanese MRBP isolates were found to belong to the MT104 clade, linking them to Chinese MRBP strains.

Conclusions:

  • MRBP, originating in China, likely disseminated to East and Southeast Asian countries during the 2010s.
  • Ongoing surveillance focusing on the A2047G mutation is essential for monitoring and controlling the spread of MRBP.
  • Genetic analysis, including MLVA and whole-genome sequencing, is vital for understanding the epidemiology of emerging infectious diseases.