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Updated: Aug 14, 2025

Isolation and Identification of Waterborne Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Molecular Characterization of their Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Published on: March 3, 2023
Klebsiella pneumoniae: an update on antibiotic resistance mechanisms
Morteza Karami-Zarandi1, Hossein Ali Rahdar2, Hadi Esmaeili3
1Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, 4513956111, Iran.
Abstract:
Klebsiella pneumoniae colonizes mucosal surfaces of healthy humans and is responsible for one third of all Gram-negative infections in hospitalized patients. K. pneumoniae is compatible with acquiring antibiotic resistance elements such as plasmids and transposons encoding various β-lactamases and efflux pumps. Mutations in different proteins such as β-lactamases, efflux proteins, outer membrane proteins, gene replication enzymes, protein synthesis complexes and transcription enzymes also generate resistance to antibiotics. Biofilm formation is another strategy that facilitates antibiotic resistance. Resistant strains can be treated by combination therapy using available antibiotics, though proper management of antibiotic consumption in hospitals is important to reduce the emergence and proliferation of resistance to current antibiotics.
Insights
Klebsiella pneumoniae causes significant hospital infections and antibiotic resistance through genetic elements and mutations. Managing antibiotic use is crucial to combat resistant strains, with combination therapy offering a treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Klebsiella pneumoniae is a common cause of Gram-negative infections in hospitalized patients.
- This bacterium readily acquires antibiotic resistance via plasmids and transposons.
- Mechanisms of resistance include mutations in various proteins and biofilm formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae.
- To highlight strategies for managing antibiotic resistance in healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Klebsiella pneumoniae antibiotic resistance.
- Analysis of genetic and cellular mechanisms contributing to resistance.
- Evaluation of treatment and management strategies.
Main Results:
- Klebsiella pneumoniae utilizes plasmids, transposons, and protein mutations to develop resistance.
- Biofilm formation is a key strategy for evading antibiotics.
- Combination therapy can be effective against resistant strains.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of antibiotic consumption is vital to curb resistance.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms is essential for developing new therapeutic approaches.
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