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Genetic variability in Neisseria meningitidis strains isolated in a Japanese hospital

Kazuyoshi Gotoh1, Shinnosuke Fukushima2,3, Hideharu Hagiya3

  • 1Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Okayama, Japan.

IJID Regions
|January 21, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria meningitidis is emerging in Japan. Penicillin and levofloxacin resistance were detected in clinical isolates, highlighting the need for ongoing surveillance of invasive meningococcal disease.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Neisseria meningitidis causes invasive meningococcal disease globally.
  • Understanding genetic characteristics aids in disease control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate genetic traits of N. meningitidis clinical isolates in Japan.
  • Assess antimicrobial resistance patterns.

Main Methods:

  • Collected five clinical N. meningitidis strains (2018-2023).
  • Performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
  • Conducted whole genome analysis using MiSeq platform.

Main Results:

  • One isolate (ST-11026) showed penicillin G non-susceptibility due to specific penA mutations.
  • Two isolates (ST-1655, ST-2057) were susceptible to penicillin G.
  • Levofloxacin resistance was found in two isolates with gyrA mutations.

Conclusions:

  • Antimicrobial-resistant N. meningitidis strains are present in Japan.
  • Continuous local surveillance is essential.
  • Further research needed to track resistance and inform countermeasures.
Keywords:
Antimicrobial resistanceDrug-resistant geneGenome sequenceInvasive meningococcal disease

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