Distinct increase in antimicrobial resistance genes among Vibrio parahaemolyticus in recent decades worldwide

Guan-Yu Fang1, Xing-Quan Liu1, Xiao-Jing Mu2

  • 1College of Food and Health, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, PR China.

Chemosphere
|August 23, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in Vibrio parahaemolyticus increased significantly over time, while virulence factor genes decreased, posing ongoing risks to human health. Mobile genetic elements drive AMR, linked to antibiotic use and human development.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a significant foodborne pathogen with increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
  • Large-scale, longitudinal studies on global AMR and virulence trends in V. parahaemolyticus are limited.
  • Understanding these trends is crucial for mitigating public health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the longitudinal trends of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and virulence factor genes (VFGs) in V. parahaemolyticus globally from 1951 to 2021.
  • To identify factors contributing to AMR and virulence, including mobile genetic elements and socioeconomic indicators.
  • To develop predictive models for assessing global AMR and VFG risks.

Main Methods:

  • Longitudinal analysis of 1540 V. parahaemolyticus isolates spanning 70 years.
  • Quantification of ARGs and VFGs using molecular methods.
  • Statistical analysis including correlation, regression, and structural equation modeling.
  • Random forest modeling for risk prediction and mapping.

Main Results:

  • A significant increase in ARGs and a significant decrease in VFGs were observed over time in V. parahaemolyticus isolates.
  • VFGs in human-associated isolates showed no significant change, indicating persistent pathogenic potential.
  • Mobile genetic elements were strongly associated with ARGs but not VFGs.
  • Human development index positively correlated with antibiotic consumption and subsequent AMR.

Conclusions:

  • V. parahaemolyticus exhibits increasing AMR, driven by mobile genetic elements and influenced by socioeconomic factors.
  • Despite decreasing VFG trends overall, the persistent virulence in human isolates warrants continued vigilance.
  • This study provides a global risk assessment framework for V. parahaemolyticus, aiding targeted mitigation strategies.

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