Complete genome of chromosome encoding mcr-1.1 in multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli EC332 and EC529 isolates from

Tatsuya Nakayama1, Takahiro Yamaguchi2, Michio Jinnai3

  • 1Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan.

Insights

Two Escherichia coli strains from Vietnamese chicken meat were sequenced, revealing genomes encoding the mcr-1.1 gene. This finding highlights potential antimicrobial resistance concerns in food sources.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Genomics
  • Food Safety

Background:

  • Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat.
  • Escherichia coli is a common bacterium found in food products.
  • The mcr-1 gene confers resistance to colistin, a critical last-resort antibiotic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the genomes of Escherichia coli strains isolated from chicken meat in Vietnam.
  • To identify the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes, specifically mcr-1.1.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing of two Escherichia coli strains (EC332 and EC529) using Oxford Nanopore and Illumina technologies.
  • Bioinformatic analysis to determine genome size and identify gene content.

Main Results:

  • Genome sequencing of strains EC332 and EC529 was successfully performed.
  • Total genome sizes were approximately 5.6 Mbp and 5.1 Mbp, respectively.
  • The mcr-1.1 gene was detected on the chromosomes of both strains.

Conclusions:

  • The presence of mcr-1.1 in Escherichia coli from chicken meat in Vietnam is a significant finding.
  • This indicates a potential pathway for the spread of colistin resistance through the food chain.
  • Further surveillance and control measures are warranted to mitigate AMR risks.