Emergence and Polyclonal Dissemination of bla_NDM-7-Carrying InX3 Plasmid in Enterobacter cloacae Complex, France,...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genetics
• Public Health

Background:

• New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM)-producing Enterobacterales are a growing global health concern.
• The blaNDM gene confers resistance to a wide range of beta-lactam antibiotics.
• Understanding the genetic elements associated with NDM-producing Enterobacterales is critical for controlling their spread.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the genetic localization and characteristics of the blaNDM-7 gene in Enterobacterales isolates from France.
• To identify the plasmids carrying the blaNDM-7 gene and assess their potential role in antimicrobial resistance and virulence.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 3,367 Enterobacterales isolates collected in France between 2021 and 2023.
• Identification of NDM-producing isolates and characterization of the blaNDM gene.
• Plasmid analysis to determine the genetic context and location of the blaNDM-7 gene.

Main Results:

• The blaNDM-7 gene was systematically found on two closely related InX3 plasmids.
• These InX3 plasmids were also found to harbor antimicrobial resistance and virulence factors.
• The findings highlight a specific genetic mechanism for the dissemination of NDM-7 in Enterobacterales.

Conclusions:

• The blaNDM-7 gene in Enterobacterales is consistently associated with specific InX3 plasmids.
• These plasmids contribute to the spread of multidrug resistance and potential virulence.
• Enhanced surveillance strategies are necessary to monitor and control NDM-producing Enterobacterales.