Complete genome assemblies and antibiograms of 22 Staphylococcus capitis isolates

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Staphylococcus capitis is an opportunistic pathogen causing various infections, with increasing detection in sterile sites.
• A multidrug-resistant clone, NRCS-A, has been identified in neonatal intensive care units in England.
• Public databases lack comprehensive genomes and antibiograms for S. capitis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate complete genome assemblies and antimicrobial susceptibility data for diverse S. capitis isolates.
• To address the gap in public genomic and resistance data for S. capitis.
• To provide a resource for understanding S. capitis evolution and antimicrobial resistance.

Main Methods:

• Performed long- and short-read whole-genome sequencing and hybrid genome assembly for 22 S. capitis isolates.
• Conducted antimicrobial susceptibility testing for 13 antimicrobials.
• Included two type strains and 20 clinical isolates, with 10 being the NRCS-A clone.

Main Results:

• Presented complete genome assemblies (2.4-2.7 Mbp, 33% GC content) for 22 S. capitis isolates.
• Identified plasmids in 20 isolates.
• Documented resistance to various antimicrobials including teicoplanin, daptomycin, and ciprofloxacin in 1-10 isolates.

Conclusions:

• The generated genomic and antimicrobial resistance data serve as a valuable resource for future studies.
• This work enhances the understanding of S. capitis genomics and evolution.
• Facilitates research into the antimicrobial resistance mechanisms of S. capitis.