Genomic Characterization of Yersinia enterocolitica Isolates, Costa Rica

PubMed

Insights

Genomic analysis of Yersinia enterocolitica in Costa Rica reveals ongoing circulation between animals and humans. The study identified concerning antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for genomic surveillance of yersinioses.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Limited data exists on enteric yersinioses in Central America.
  • Yersinia enterocolitica is a significant foodborne pathogen.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize Yersinia enterocolitica isolates from Costa Rica using genomic methods.
  • To investigate antimicrobial resistance patterns and potential sources of infection.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of 78 Yersinia enterocolitica isolates.
  • Phylogenetic analysis to determine genetic relationships.
  • Antimicrobial resistance gene profiling.

Main Results:

  • Genomic data confirmed persistent circulation between animal reservoirs and human infections.
  • Unusual levels of antimicrobial resistance were detected in the isolates.
  • Specific Yersinia enterocolitica strains were identified as prevalent.

Conclusions:

  • Genomic surveillance is crucial for monitoring Yersinia infections in Costa Rica.
  • Findings highlight the need for integrated animal and human health strategies.
  • Understanding pathogen dynamics can inform public health interventions.

Related Concept Videos

Genomic DNA in Prokaryotes00:46

Genomic DNA in Prokaryotes

The genome of most prokaryotic organisms consists of double-stranded DNA organized into one circular chromosome in a region of cytoplasm called the nucleoid. The chromosome is tightly wound, or supercoiled, for efficient storage. Prokaryotes also contain other circular pieces of DNA called plasmids. These plasmids are smaller than the chromosome and often carry genes that confer adaptive functions, such as antibiotic resistance.
Genomic Diversity in Bacteria
Although bacterial genomes are much...
42.5K
Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine01:29

Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine

The gut microbiome is formed by a vast and diverse community of bacteria that colonizes our large intestine. These bacteria start residing in the gut from birth and continue diversifying throughout life, influenced by factors such as diet, lifestyle, and stress. The gut bacterial community also includes bacteria from food and those that enter the colon through the anus.
The normal gut flora of the colon plays a critical role in generating essential vitamins such as vitamins K, B5, and B7.
1.7K
Stringent Response in E. coli01:23

Stringent Response in E. coli

Bacterial growth is closely tied to nutrient availability, with cells proliferating exponentially under favorable conditions and entering a stationary phase when resources become scarce. This transition is mediated by a regulatory mechanism known as the stringent response, which allows bacteria to adapt to nutrient deprivation by modulating gene expression and metabolic activity.During nutrient scarcity, intracellular amino acid levels decline. It results in the accumulation of uncharged tRNAs...
533
Bacterial Gastroenteritis01:18

Bacterial Gastroenteritis

Bacterial gastroenteritis, characterized by diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting, is often caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water and is frequently associated with pathogenic Escherichia coli strains. These microbes exploit two principal mechanisms to inflict disease.Shiga toxin–producing E. coli, also referred to as STEC—notably O157:H7—release Shiga toxins that target ribosomes, blocking protein synthesis. The B subunit of the toxin binds the host glycolipid...
92