Exploring the Molecular Mechanisms of Macrolide Resistance in Laboratory Mutant Helicobacter pylori

Meltem Ayaş1,2, Sinem Oktem-Okullu3, Orhan Özcan4

  • 1Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Vocational School of Health Services, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, 34752 Istanbul, Turkey.

Insights

New mutations in Helicobacter pylori may cause clarithromycin resistance, a common cause of treatment failure. Researchers identified novel mutations in TauE/SafE and DUF874 proteins, suggesting new targets for antibiotic resistance research.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Clarithromycin resistance in Helicobacter pylori is a major cause of treatment failure.
  • While 23S rRNA mutations are common, other resistance mechanisms are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate novel macrolide resistance mechanisms in H. pylori.
  • To identify new mutations associated with clarithromycin resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Generation of resistant H. pylori strains through exposure to low clarithromycin concentrations.
  • Whole-genome sequencing and Sanger sequencing to detect mutations.
  • Agar dilution method for determining susceptibility.

Main Results:

  • Both resistant strains possessed the known A2142G mutation in 23S rRNA.
  • Mutant-1 strain showed candidate mutations in 23S rRNA and a novel mutation in the TauE/SafE protein gene.
  • Mutant-2 strain exhibited a novel mutation in the DUF874 family protein gene.

Conclusions:

  • Novel mutations in TauE/SafE and DUF874 family proteins may contribute to clarithromycin resistance or cross-resistance in H. pylori.
  • These newly identified mutations represent potential targets for future research into antibiotic resistance mechanisms.