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Updated: Jul 15, 2025

Quantification of Plasmid-Mediated Antibiotic Resistance in an Experimental Evolution Approach
Published on: December 14, 2019
The origin and evolution of IncF33 plasmids based on large-scale data sets
Guolong Gao1,2, Wanyun He1,2, Yanxiang Jiao1,2
1State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University , Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
Newly identified IncF33 plasmids carrying multiple antibiotic resistance genes are spreading in animal-source bacteria in China. Enhanced surveillance is crucial to control these multidrug-resistant strains and prevent further dissemination.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Multidrug-resistant bacteria pose a significant global health threat.
- Plasmids carrying multiple antibiotic resistance genes facilitate rapid spread of resistance.
- IncF33 plasmids are an emerging plasmid type prevalent in animal-source Enterobacterales.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of IncF33 plasmids in animal-source Enterobacterales in China.
- To understand the role of IncF33 plasmids in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes.
- To assess the potential for intercontinental spread of IncF33 plasmids.
Main Methods:
- Plasmid analysis and sequencing.
- Antimicrobial resistance gene profiling.
- Prevalence studies in animal-source bacteria.
Main Results:
- IncF33 plasmids are highly prevalent in animal-derived Escherichia coli in China.
- These plasmids carry clinically important antibiotic resistance genes.
- Evidence suggests potential for cointegration and intercontinental dissemination.
Conclusions:
- IncF33 plasmids are significant vectors for antibiotic resistance gene transmission in animal agriculture.
- Enhanced surveillance and control measures are necessary to limit the spread of these plasmids and associated resistance.
- Understanding plasmid dissemination is crucial for combating antimicrobial resistance.
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