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Plasmid profiles of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Peninsular Malaysia
Abstract:
The plasmid profiles of 160 strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolated in Peninsular Malaysia, comprising 80 penicillinase-producing (PPNG) and 80 non-penicillinase-producing (non-PPNG) isolates, were determined. The 80 PPNG isolates were divided into two plasmid groups. All of them harbored two common plasmid species, a 4.4 megadalton (Md) R plasmid previously associated with beta-lactamase production in PPNG strains from the Far East and a 2.6 Md multicopy plasmid of unknown function. In addition to these two plasmids, 60 (75%) PPNG isolates also carried a large 24.5 Md conjugative plasmid. In contrast, the 80 non-PPNG strains were divided into three plasmid groups. All of them possessed the 2.6 Md cryptic plasmid, and 35 (44%) isolates also harbored the 24.5 Md transfer plasmid. Besides these two plasmids, one non-PPNG isolate carried an additional 7.8 Md cryptic plasmid.
Insights
Penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (PPNG) strains in Malaysia commonly carry specific R and cryptic plasmids. Non-PPNG strains also possess distinct plasmid profiles, aiding in understanding gonococcal epidemiology.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a significant cause of sexually transmitted infections.
- Understanding the plasmid profiles of Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains is crucial for tracking antimicrobial resistance and disease spread.
- Penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (PPNG) strains are a particular concern due to their resistance mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine and compare the plasmid profiles of penicillinase-producing (PPNG) and non-penicillinase-producing (non-PPNG) Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates from Peninsular Malaysia.
- To identify common and unique plasmids associated with PPNG and non-PPNG strains.
- To contribute to the epidemiological surveillance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Main Methods:
- Plasmid DNA was extracted from 160 Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates (80 PPNG, 80 non-PPNG).
- Plasmid profiles were analyzed using gel electrophoresis to determine the size and number of plasmids.
- Isolates were categorized into plasmid groups based on their identified plasmids.
Main Results:
- PPNG strains predominantly harbored a 4.4 megadalton (Md) R plasmid linked to beta-lactamase production and a 2.6 Md cryptic plasmid.
- A 24.5 Md conjugative plasmid was found in 75% of PPNG isolates.
- Non-PPNG strains primarily carried the 2.6 Md cryptic plasmid, with 44% also possessing the 24.5 Md transfer plasmid. One non-PPNG isolate had an additional 7.8 Md cryptic plasmid.
Conclusions:
- Distinct plasmid profiles differentiate PPNG and non-PPNG Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains in Peninsular Malaysia.
- The 4.4 Md R plasmid is a key marker for PPNG strains in this region.
- Plasmid analysis provides valuable insights into the genetic diversity and epidemiology of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.