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Transmissible antibiotic resistance in Salmonella isolated from random-source cats purchased for use in research
Abstract:
Salmonella isolates from random-source cats designated for use in research were examined for antibiotic susceptibilities and the presence of plasmids containing R factors. The serotypes studied were Salmonella derby, S typhimurium, S anatum, S enteritidis, and S bredeney. Eighty percent of the isolates were resistant to one or more antibiotics. The greatest frequency of resistance was to streptomycin. The majority of the salmonella isolates transferred all or a part of their antibiotic resistance to an Escherichia coli K-12 recipient. Thermosensitive R factors were found in two S typhimurium isolates.
Insights
Most Salmonella from research cats showed antibiotic resistance, particularly to streptomycin. Resistance genes were frequently transferable to other bacteria, indicating potential public health concerns.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Antimicrobial Resistance
- Bacterial Genetics
Background:
- Salmonella infections in animals can pose risks to human health.
- Antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a growing global concern.
- Cats used in research may harbor various bacterial pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate antibiotic resistance patterns in Salmonella isolates from research cats.
- To determine the presence and transferability of R factors (resistance factors) in these isolates.
Main Methods:
- Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed on Salmonella isolates.
- Plasmid analysis was conducted to identify R factors.
- Bacterial conjugation experiments were used to assess resistance transfer to Escherichia coli K-12.
Main Results:
- Eighty percent of Salmonella isolates exhibited resistance to at least one antibiotic.
- Streptomycin resistance was the most frequent.
- The majority of isolates could transfer antibiotic resistance to E. coli K-12, with two S. typhimurium isolates possessing thermosensitive R factors.
Conclusions:
- Salmonella from research cats frequently carry transferable antibiotic resistance.
- These findings highlight the importance of monitoring antimicrobial resistance in animal populations, including those destined for research.
- The presence of R factors underscores potential public health implications and the need for infection control measures.